Why is it so threatening when a woman is happy to be alone?

Why is it so threatening when a woman opts not to have a romantic relationship in her life—for now, or forever?

Why is it so threatening when a woman knows exactly what she wants?

Why is it so threatening when she says so?

Why is it so threatening when a woman takes ownership of her life?

Why is it so threatening when a woman laughs, cries, dances, sings, speaks from the soul?

Why is it so offensive when a woman loves her body?

Why is it so offensive when a woman chooses not to have children, a husband, a “normal life”?

Why is it so offensive when a woman says no—to a date, to a drink, to a kiss?

Why is it so offensive when a woman says yes—to solitude, to lovers, to self-discovery?

Why is it so goddamn unacceptable for a woman to live her own life, by her own rules, without asking permission, without making apologies, without seeking approval?

Why is it that simply by existing we seem to threaten and offend? Is it so terrible that women are freely chasing joy in ever-increasing numbers?

Is it so unsettling that women are claiming their power?

No. The answer, of course, is no.

It is not so terrible. There is no reason to feel threatened. There is no need to be offended.

Let us rise.

~

Author: Toby Israel
Image: TobyIsrael/Instagram
Editor: Lieselle Davidson
Copy Editor: Sara Kärpänen