My 6 year old noticed that princess stories all center around marriage and "finding the right man". If she understands that is a myopic view of life (because "what if you want to do something else, like be a surgeon, or start a business, make art or travel around the world" or "what if you marry the wrong person and don't live happily ever after") then it's high time we change the narrative that little girls hear.
We need better role models and better hero stories. We need to open up better opportunities and teach girls about knowing, honouring and loving themselves. We need to encourage growth, contribution and meaningful connection - not ridiculous stories about love at first sight based on external beauty. At the very least, if we are going to focus the literature of young women on relationships, let's focus on the workings of secure, authentic partnerships instead of 3 day chance encounters that turn into everlasting happiness effortlessly, regardless of compatibility, ability to love, and intentional action.
We need better role models and better hero stories. We need to open up better opportunities and teach girls about knowing, honouring and loving themselves. We need to encourage growth, contribution and meaningful connection - not ridiculous stories about love at first sight based on external beauty. At the very least, if we are going to focus the literature of young women on relationships, let's focus on the workings of secure, authentic partnerships instead of 3 day chance encounters that turn into everlasting happiness effortlessly, regardless of compatibility, ability to love, and intentional action.
Comments
Post a Comment