THE OL’BUZZARD'S REFLECTS ON WOMEN

My grandmother and four daughters

I have seen so much in my seventy plus years: radio days, telephone operators, Second World War, black and white movies, the advent of television, aircraft breaking the sound barrier at 600 mph., computer punch cards - from propellers to jet aircraft, to space ships, and medical advances that are allowing us to live longer; but most of all I have seen social changes.  

My wife being diagnosed with breast cancer has me viewing her as a marvel of my time.   I can remember, during my life time, a drastic change in the image and status of women. 

My grandmother, who raised me, was born in 1892.   She was married as she turned sixteen and had six children by the time she was twenty-one.   A great and gracious lady, she had on idea of how to support or take care of herself when she was abandon by her husband.   She lived her life depending on the kindness of her daughters.

Throughout my youth women were looked at as being less intelligent then men, emotionally unstable, and not capable of competing with men.   Part of it, of course, was coming out of an age where physical strength attributed to success.

 

The instability of women: nervousness, prone to depression and emotionally volatile was a constant topic and joke among husbands (overheard by their sons.)   And unfortunately these attributes were undoubtedly correct.

I can only imagine how frustrating it was for intelligent women to craved knowledge and control of their destiny; yet be relegated to the state of ignominy by a society that kept her ignorant of family finances, discounted her opinions, isolated her from decisions and any position of respect.   

Her lot was the expectation of motherhood - with totally responsible for children, the household and the gratification of her husband.    

Notice motherhood is the pentacle

 Not to mention religion that charged her with releasing sin and suffering upon the world.

No wonder women freaked out.   No wonder they were in a state of constant depression and anxiety - they were living the life of a kidnapped victim.    

Just as with segregation, it took decades before many women actually felt confidence – self-worth – and in control of their lives.   Some never achieved this.  

Then during the sixties things began to change. 

  

I look at my wife and can’t imagine anyone doubting her intelligence.   I have witnessed her bravery, her willingness to take chances and her calm reasoning.      She is my stability; she has elevated me.

  

And now we see the possibility of a female President – and possibly a female Vice-President. 

 

You have come a long way sisters and proved yourself ready for the dog fight.    

My attitudes have evolved and I wouldn’t have it any other way; though I have to admit I still view and appreciate women as a sexy piece – of work. 

My wife

the Ol’Buzzard