2 thoughts on “My Girl: On The Hopes and Fears of Raising A Young Woman”
First off, let me just say the fact that your daughter is on the level of maturity to research such a topic is marvelous. Most children, no matter the background, around her age are not doing that, and that is a testament to your parenting and her intellect. Secondly, as a father of a much younger girl, I have had preliminary thoughts of how I will be able to still be some form of protector of her when she becomes truly her own person, coming into her own existence, especially when she has to go out in the world on her own. It’s one of my few true, tangible fears, for I too, would go to jail smiling all the way if anyone ever makes the mistake of violating her. We have to invest so much energy into them, I’m glad to see your investment reap such rewards. Blessings to you both.
Awesome timing! I was just discussing with my 13 year old her intentions for travel, and what she feels is her own life path. While she is interested in pursuing a doctorate, she has considered delaying it for a year while exploring the textile industry. The thought of her being vulnerable in another part of the world gives me pause… I know that many families are not insisting that their sons treat ALL women with respect. There isn’t enough peer pressure in society to shame males for assaulting women. So I try to keep in mind that she does have an amazing intuition, teach her all the “rules” of going out, and when the time comes consider enrolling her in a weapons class.
First off, let me just say the fact that your daughter is on the level of maturity to research such a topic is marvelous. Most children, no matter the background, around her age are not doing that, and that is a testament to your parenting and her intellect. Secondly, as a father of a much younger girl, I have had preliminary thoughts of how I will be able to still be some form of protector of her when she becomes truly her own person, coming into her own existence, especially when she has to go out in the world on her own. It’s one of my few true, tangible fears, for I too, would go to jail smiling all the way if anyone ever makes the mistake of violating her. We have to invest so much energy into them, I’m glad to see your investment reap such rewards. Blessings to you both.
Awesome timing! I was just discussing with my 13 year old her intentions for travel, and what she feels is her own life path. While she is interested in pursuing a doctorate, she has considered delaying it for a year while exploring the textile industry. The thought of her being vulnerable in another part of the world gives me pause… I know that many families are not insisting that their sons treat ALL women with respect. There isn’t enough peer pressure in society to shame males for assaulting women. So I try to keep in mind that she does have an amazing intuition, teach her all the “rules” of going out, and when the time comes consider enrolling her in a weapons class.