March/April 2012 This I Believe
Our World Needs Women
by Sharon Riegie Maynard
Does it seem self-evident that the world would not exist without women?
Can you imagine a world without women — no meals cooked, no clothing washed, no cookies baked, no parties planned, no dishes cleaned, no bedtime stories read, no loving night kisses, no next generation and no need for environmental protection. Even the latest research shows that a nation’s security is tied to how their women are valued.
Then why are the numbers of female fetuses being identified for abortion growing? Why is it that one in three women will personally experience physical or sexual violence in their lifetime? Why is 40 percent of our country’s gross national product derived from women in low or no paying jobs? Why do dominating models want to refuse women equal rights and take away their stewardship over their own bodies? And why are so few women at policy making tables where changes can be made?
As the one who carries and births life, a woman is naturally inclined to want space and an environment for experiences that will enhance that life. Women are the natural leaders and decision makers for a culture that values people. They could move mountains to assure that those they love have the best to become their best.
When women stand and declare, men bring the power of their heart, mind and muscle to the task. Together they build worlds of people over profit, and policies of generosity over greed.
The world needs women — their presence, their wisdom, their concern for the next generations.
— Sharon Riegie Maynard, sponsor of the first Women’s Grassroots Congress on March 24 to 25 in Seattle and online at www.womensgrassrootscongress.com.
