Men Can (make a difference)

Zennia Bhattacharjee

We all believe that men can play an active role in eradicating gender violence and their active participation is sure going to help in breaking patriarchal cliches. But is it solely their individual responsibility to create a realm of gender equity and pay respect to the opposite sex ? It's immensely comforting to lay down rules & brainstorm over the many ways in which 'Men Can' take initiative to make a noticeable difference. But I believe, the power also vests in the hands of those vulnerable species who since time immemorial have been given the status of 'weaker section of society'.

The irony is that from conception until the 8th week of gestation, men and women are almost exactly the same. The only difference is at the chromosomal level and of course the many attributes that make a woman different from a man. But my worry is that regardless of how differently we may be programmed, is it reason enough to thrive on the pinnacle of insecurity, immolation and the fear of being left alone?

Women are powerful, charismatic and hysterical at the same time. I think they're naturally blessed with the quality of pleasing & delighting. We often forget that respect is not earned by going all out and giving in to every whim and fancy of your partner but in commanding and holding your ground affirmatively. It was Henry Ford who said 'Whether you think you can or can't...you are right'. To posses a certain someone by persistently fighting against the odds and living up to their expectations is obviously going to activate one's confidence to exploit. We feel we don’t deserve to win, to achieve success, to be happy. That somehow when things finally go right and happen the way we want them to, that it is too good to be true. Why can't two people mutually respect each other's individuality rather than have the women limit and deny herself from the things she really wants. Women can do anything they put their mind to, preserving your self worth and high self esteem is in your hand and firmly exercising your freedom of expression is only going to strengthen your distinct capacity to function confidently and not be at the mercy of your beloved or those who target you as 'commodities'.

Lastly an emotion is a state of mind, never confuse or compel a person for it to become his/her weakness as it only depletes the sanctity of a relashionship and with times dies like a bitter memory. Someones wisely once stated 'respect those who respect themselves'. Its about time we stood up for ourselves and commanded the reverence we're seeking to be addressed with. Follow your heart, listen to your instincts and live for the woman in that mirror :)

This Blog is part of the Men Say No Blogathon, encouraging men to take up action against the violence faced by women.

More entries to the Blogathon can be read at www.mustbol.in/blogathon. Join further conversation on facebook.com/delhiyouth & twitter.com/mustbol