As a 20-year-old female college student, I have felt pressured by my peers to not only consider but to conform to political and social orientation. This value isn't just something to wear, say, or a social media platform to take part in but is a huge part of an individual's belief system.
It affects core values and decisions. I struggle with this idea but I'm here to voice my opinion and my side of Feminism.
In my experience feminism is supported by lots of different women which of course contribute different ideas and beliefs to the concept of feminism. That's what we women are good at, having opinions. But to myself, feminism is something I never have felt fully comfortable labeling with.
I have shuddered at the idea if I would call myself a "feminist" because of some of the grief I feel from a group of women that also label themselves under this term.
I grew up in an agriculture community. Wives and daughters and women are not found any less important or looked down upon in this industry. We stand strong as the backbone and support many times of the hardworking family.
There are many ways that women in the agriculture industry have fought and overcame suppression Some of the most amazing women I have met have been farmers wives that did chores, raised the kids, fed the family, cleaned the house, and stayed involved in the community and school. So yes, I value the "place" women have at home.
The day that I become a man's wife and take his last name will be one of the best days of my life. The biology of it is simple: Having ovaries and a uterus. That's what women have and it's what makes us qualified to bring life into this world. Even though at my age and with my anxiety I am super scared to be a mom I also look forward to it.
I don't believe I have to be a wife and mother because of any outside source but because that's what my heart desires. We each of different opinions and dreams of our future life, but just because mine is a loving wife that cooks dinner for my family doesn't make me weak. I have an excitement to have a family in the future.
I have five nephews and one niece that, even though can be crazy, have shown me something in my heart I just can not ignore. The love for a child is one I have found amazing.
I find attractiveness in a man who shares a love for children and family with me. If he can get the approval from my nephews and niece, that's a huge step. I watch my older siblings have blessed lives as their own little families and I one day wish to also be able to share in that type of love with a husband and children.
I'm not against women that are more focused on their career than on a family. So would a working woman ever be against my future choice? All people should have the same choices. Working women, stay at home moms, the hybrid of both, and the same array for men and fathers are all amazing choices. No person should ever feel less because of their desires.
Shaming someone for not going back to work after they have a child is like telling the LGBTQ community who they can love. For women who chose to work from home, work particular hours so they can see their kids or who have the capability and choice to stay home and be a full-time mom: That is what they love.
My dream of making sandwiches in the kitchen isn't because of a forced choice, but because I always have loved being caring and supporting the ones around me.
Don't accuse me that I have been brainwashed because I dream of settling down. Don't shame me for wanting a nice kitchen to cook in. Don't shame me because I already have a wedding, house, and kid boards on my Pinterest. I am no lesser of a woman or human. I'm just a girl that wants my dreams to be as important as any other feminist's dreams are.