What does that even mean?
I'm looking through dictionary definitions saying things like "A well-mannered and considerate woman with high standards of proper behavior." and "A woman regarded as proper and virtuous," or, "a well-behaved young girl."
Urban dictionary defines it as "Something most Men don't treat right." And a "masterpiece created by god," and my actual favourite " The best word for a male to take a normal, innocent sounding sentence, and add an awkward, perverted, creepy twist, in reference to speaking with a female. It is always used at the end of a sentence, and usually follows a comma. For extra effect, can be complimented with lowering of the voice, and raising of the eyebrows. Is used by guys that desperately can't get any actionglobally. It's use is significantly higher when the man has been consuming copious amounts of alcohol."
ie. "how's it goin, ladies?"
Haha, jokes aside though, I have had enough lately of being told what a lady should and shouldn't be. I shudder at the thought of changing myself to fit the 'standard'. A lady is who and what I am, regardless of what anyone else has to contribute. Yes, you're allowed an opinion, but if it isn't going to be loving and encouraging, I'm really not interested in hearing it at this point. I'm not saying criticism doesn't have a place, because of course it does, but where I am right now and where I am going, is towards celebrating every piece and part of myself, and why shouldn't I?
Is that not what I'm supposed to do? Does being a lady mean I can't be active and competitive, and challenge a guy (or a girl) in every given situation possible- especially when it involves sports? Because that's simply not me. My body was built to be active, and when there's a game situation where I can use my body's natural strength and build, why wouldn't I? Why would I hide in the darkness? So I don't get hurt? So I can still look beautiful? No. That just doesn't work for me.
This is one of my favourite quotes, and I"m pretty sure it says it all:
"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine as children do. It's not just in some of us; it is in everyone. And as we let our own lights shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others."
-Coach Carter
Look, I'm not out to attack anyone, and I'm not saying there's not a time and place for one to be well-mannered- in fact, manners go a long way, always. I'm not saying we should just run wild in every given moment (though sometimes I think about it.. ;) ).
But my appearance does not make me a lady, nor does my athleticism negate that I am one.
