A Real Woman
Is a real woman supposed to be a sex-‐crazed, bikini-‐clad goddess whose purpose is to please and know her place? Or conversely, is she supposed to be some soul-‐less witch who is fueled only by ambition and her search for dominance? According to the world, the answer is yes to all the above. Society gives us mixed signals when it comes to defining a real woman.
First of all, thanks to TV, the Internet and magazines like Sports Illustrated and Cosmopolitan, everyone’s idea of a woman is pure fantasy. By their very definition, fantasy and reality are not the same. Not every woman can fit in a size 2 dress. Not every woman has flawless skin, wrinkle-‐ free, spot-‐free complexion or perfect figure. Every woman is different. Beauty is highly subjective and appearance is overrated. Thanks to reality TV, we get a front row seat to see real ugliness in even the most physically attractive people. Beautiful women come in all shapes and sizes. A real woman accepts, recognizes and revels in her own beauty. She is comfortable in her own skin. But it doesn’t stop there. She is most beautiful when she is confidently kind to others. Her inner grace makes her magnificent and truly stunning. A real woman doesn’t see sex as a game. A real woman knows the role that sex plays in love and intimacy. She is selective and deliberate. A real woman doesn’t give herself away to every man who comes along.
She waits, hopes and dreams for a counterpart that can deliver more than just physical pleasure; one that brings her mental, emotional and spiritual fulfillment as well. A mate that can challenge her.
Contrary to what you hear, a real woman shouldn’t try to be a man’s equal. There’s no need. Do you know difference between being equal and equivalent? Equal says everything you have I should have as well. Equivalent says I should be given the same opportunities; it’s focused on fairness. Clearly there are some things a woman can do better than a man and vice-‐versa. A real woman doesn’t become preoccupied with trying to get what men have.
She doesn’t confuse the attributes of being feminine with masculinity. She has no axe to grind, because being a woman is something a man simply cannot be. So she uses her strength, grace and ability to succeed her way. She measures her success, not against other men, but against a much higher standard: her own hopes and aspirations. She also recognizes that there is unfairness in the world, in business and relationships. Her grace sustains her, however. She has strength that is completely foreign to the other gender. That is her distinct advantage; a marvel to every man.
So today, I encourage you to put down the magazines and ignore the media promoting women as objects, especially those that advocate the “one-‐size is best for all” credo.
Recognize the difference between being merely equal and striving for equivalence. And know your place. It’s not to be simply desired for your physical beauty. Your place is one of splendor, grace and beauty that goes beyond skin-‐ deep. It’s a special place that God made just for you.
Today, be a real woman. Be you. That’s something that only you can do. And that’s most beautiful and very special. Have a great day! Love dad
Return to homepage
