I have a friend who always ensured that I reach my room safely when I was drunk. And that I was tucked in with my blanket and extra pillows- just the way I wanted it.
I have a friend who never hesitated to buy sanitary pads for me when I did not wish to go out.
I have a friend who always got me cake, ice-cream, and junk food when I would be on period. My friend knew that the craving was real!
I have a friend who washed the sheet I stained because I was too weak to do it myself.
I have a friend who refused to fight for me and made me fight for myself instead.
I have a friend who changed the medical dressing on my wound more delicately than anyone ever could.
I have a friend who always chose me over anyone else.
The person whom I reported to at my first job ensured that I first learnt how to stand up for myself and not get bullied by others.
My sibling never agreed with me when I said that I am ready to hang in my boots and call it a day. I was always pushed to do more. Explore more. Be more.
One of my parents uprooted their life and relocated at the age of 62 so that I never am in a soup with juggling home and work. “Giving-up” is a term that does not exist here.
I have a partner who lives by the truth that we are partners. Nothing is too big, or too small, for either of us to deal with as individuals.
One of my parents-in-law always gives me tips on how to reduce pre-menstrual cramps and goes out of their way to ensure that I am comfortable.
All the above statements are for the men in my life. They have a larger role in making me who I am than my efforts do.
I have been objectified by men, too. I have come across men who are not worthy of walking the face of this earth. I have met men who have been nothing but sorry excuses of being humans.
I can say the same for some women I have come across, too.
Yes, almost every woman has faced something wrong at some point of her life.
However, the minute the debate lands on demonizing men and not working towards the benefit of the one walked over (women-in most cases), the battle is lost.
“Not all men” is a phrase that has become a joke. Excuse me while I continue supporting this statement.
And for this I thank the men who continued to show me a side that many do not pay attention to.
Before we say “not all men” is a sham, let’s take a minute and REALLY think.
I am a strong feminist. As strong as they come. However, I refuse to walk all over men to prove my point. Patriarchy is not men. It is a mindset that many of us harbor even today. If woman would not be patriarchal, daily soaps would never have had the popularity they do!
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