KEEPING IT EVEN
INGE LOOK artist
Last weekend I listened to a psychologist speak about the differences in the way men and women relate to their own gender.
She generalized that while men often "step" on each other as they climb the proverbial corporate ladder, their behavior is both expected and accepted. Its just men being men, doing what they must to succeed and provide.
Women she noted, are very different in their approach, they like to keep the playing field even. If a women becomes a little too successful her cohorts will pull her down. If someone is struggling, others will lift her up. She proposed that we like to feel equal as we measure our success or failure.
I'm not sure if that is completely accurate but it is food for thought. Women are competitive and most of us tend to be a little insecure. What looks like criticism is actually a reflection of the fears we hold for ourselves.
Wouldn't it be wonderful if we truly believed that there was room for everyone to sparkle, each unique but equally valued in what we have to offer. When I find myself feeling threatened I try to remember that the place I hold in the universe can only be held by me. We are one of a kind and we don't have to be afraid.
I believe as women mature there is potential for an amazing metamorphose. Being generous in our relationships, kind, supportive and forgiving may not always keep things even but it definitely makes us, as individuals, shine a little "brighter"
"Who can find a virtuous women, for her price is far above rubies." Proverbs 31:10
