We do it by censoring other women the “male way.” By becoming those who censor others and somehow make them feel that what they think or say is “not right.” We censor the body by projecting the male view of the perfect woman onto our mothers and daughters.

To get along in this society, I personally have adopted some supposedly “male” characteristics, as have you have most likely in your job as well. We need to in order to get along in our jobs and in our everyday lives. However, by doing so, we adopt some of their less savory hierarchical habits: intimidation, belittling, scorn, etc. I do it all the time and have to catch myself, but it’s difficult.

I think we need a more egalitarian approach where everyone is heard without fear of censure and with respect to all ideas no matter how absurd we think they are. But patriarchy won’t allow women to even come to the table with ideas. Feminists have always said that much like slaves ridding themselves of their masters, that it’s ok to use the master’s tools to dismantle the master’s house, but how much do we without tainting ourselves in the process? I’m still working on it.

I must read this again and again. I must digest and live this breathing mantra.

Tell me, what about how we women inflict the thoughts of a male shaped society unto our fellow women?