Since I was a little girl I have heard the phrase “like a girl” on a daily basis. From my father, from my classmates, from coaches and even from teachers. Not only was it directed at me or other girls, but most of the time it’s directed at boys when they do something people perceive as “wimpy,” which I am sick of.

When men say, “Are you gonna cry like a girl?” to another man, not only is it insulting to women, but it is also insinuating that men aren't allowed to cry let alone show a moment of weakness. Men should be allowed to upset, and cry. As a girl, it is exhausting to be seen as hysterical every time I get a little bit upset or angry about something. My feelings are valid; they should be treated as such. And since when has crying been so girly? Everybody cries, and there isn’t anything wrong with that.

When I used to play softball, I would practice playing catch with my dad. He would always say, “You throw like a girl!” as a way to offend me and upset me. Ye,s I am a girl. I love makeup and dresses and doing my hair. But that doesn’t mean that I’m not a strong or independent girl who can’t throw a ball or play a sport just as well, if not better than a man.

Since when has being a girl become such a bad thing? Girls rock. They’re awesome at everything and are just as strong and cool as guys are. I think it’s time to use the phrase “like a girl” in a positive light. Be proud to act like a girl, because most girls I come across have dealt with so much in life and have come out to be some of the strongest, most courageous and marvelous people I have ever met.