Tuesday, June 12, 2012

This One Is For the Ladies!

I have no idea what it is like to be a woman.

Obviously.

Neither am I all testosterone and sharp edges. I don't know that I'm as in touch with my feminine side as a man can be, but I have a soft side. I can understand women at least a little. After all I have observed them for the better part of twenty-two years and I've lived with one for the last eight. When it comes down to it though I'm a guy and I think like a guy.

Problem is I'm raising a woman.

There is a minefield out there for Mackenzie and by proxy me to navigate as she grows toward adulthood. Everything from Disney Princess collections and airbrushed “super” models to whack jobs that can't control their urges. A great example of the challenge of being a woman was written by Emily V. Gordon on the xoJane website. ATimeline of One Girl's Relationship with Her Body.

It's a tough read. It reminded me of what I need to keep in mind when interacting with Mackenzie. As a guy most of the experiences she writes about are foreign to me. I've never been bothered by a comment about my body. I honestly can't even remember any right now. When I look in the mirror I see a good looking guy. How many woman can look in the mirror and always be happy? When will the mirror change from something to make funny faces in to judge, jury and executioner for Mackenzie?

Can I stop that?

Probably not.

But I can love her through all the ups and downs to come on her way to being a woman. She will know love. That is all I can really do.

Also, thank God I have Kay with me in this thing. 

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