Quote Originally Posted by Deborski View Post
I consider myself a feminist, but then again, my idea of feminism is not the same as the feminism I've heard some people describe. Do I think women should have as much opportunity to pursue their dreams as men? Yes! Do I think a woman should have to act like a man to achieve those dreams? No.

I never enjoyed wearing suits with extra wide shoulders to look more "masculine" in the workplace. I never burned my bras, either, though I admit the darn things make me uncomfortable and I don't wear them at home. My husband has not complained

I think if a guy is really into a woman it doesn't matter how she acts, so a woman may as well be authentic and the right man will be attracted to her for what she is!
I'm with you. When women become like men, mentally, and consider that to be feminism, then where's the liberation?
I really struggle with the macho competition at work. It's hard work to live up to the MALE norm in order to be successful. It's psychologically exhausting. I don't think it's emotionally healthy. It's also quite obvious that it's a relationship wrecker and, I believe, to an extent, a turnoff for men. We can't re-program the male brain just because we want a career. Also, taking on male characteristics all day at work, how do you suddenly just drop that mindset when you come home? It's practically schizophrenia...

LIkewise men who twist around themselves to prove how politically correct they are. I doubt any of the Russians here do that, but certainly in many other countries there are men who claim to be "feminist" etc. But I don't need another girlfriend in a man's body! I need a man who has different strengths than me. I believe men and women should complement and respect each other, not compete with each other. Women are not the weaker vessels, our strengths are just different and deserve equal recognition.

To me, feminism is being able to be a woman and have my feminine strengths valued equally highly as male strengths. Feminism is not about running around in stilettos hurting your feet and being easy prey. It's not about sleeping around and selling yourself cheaply. It's not about trying to beat men at their own game and being bound to lose out in the end, anyway.