by Rod Harvey, Gold Coast, Australia
Back in the 60’s, when Bob Dylan was singing ‘The Times They Are A Changing’, the Women’s Liberation Movement was born and rapidly grew in the 70’s and 80’s throughout the western world.
Men watched on as women feminists fought for equality, with some feminists choosing to burn their bras to signify their independence. And what affect did that have on men? We loved it! Nothing like a bra-less woman to stretch the eyeballs.
The revolution brought gradual changes as women fought against oppression and became more independent. We saw gradual increases in women’s wages and sexual freedom, more women in corporate and political positions and sex discrimination became a hot topic.
There was an edge to it, a drive and, dare I say it, many women ‘toughened up’ to compete against men. But there was a fundamental flaw because the revolution alienated men, which is why there hasn’t been a significant change in men’s attitudes. And to this day, the subtle (and at times not so subtle) denigration of women continues.
All around us the signals are obvious: advertising agencies still continue to portray women as sluts to sell products; the major religions are still patriarchal and treat women as second class citizens; the ‘old boys’ clubs still exist in the majority of boardrooms; we see sly inferences and biased reporting about women in media articles (as well as the more obvious page 3 girls to perve on) and we hear snide remarks about women from politicians, workmates and talk-back jocks.
We don’t have to dig deep to sense the tone of what is going on. Observe how men speak to women; the behaviour of many young men when they are with their girlfriends in a group of people; and the accepted norm of how boys treat girls at primary and secondary schools. For many, if not most, respect has flown out the window.
Yet many women are inadvertently not helping the situation.
After all, have you ever heard a woman make comments similar to these?
“Wait ‘til your father comes home.”
“Shhh… your father is sleeping in.”
“Oh he gets angry, but he’s under so much stress.”
“My husband’s a solicitor.”
“A boob job will give me more self-confidence.”
“I look hot in this dress.”
“Every relationship has its problems.”
“It’s not worth the hassle to bring it up – who needs the aggro.”
“I’m too old to find someone else.”
“The magic has gone.”
“Whenever he does jobs around the house he wants sex later.”
“I just wish he would hug me without wanting sex.”
Many women have given their power away and men take advantage. Then, when the woman says ‘enough is enough’, men receive mixed messages and get confused. We need open and honest communication.
So why has it taken so long for me to really feel what is going on?
Recently a group of female Universal Medicine students began to write about the belittlement of women in the media and society. Yet they did so in a different energy to that which we have previously witnessed. This time it was done by women expressing from a foundation of love while standing in their power and there is something beautiful and compelling about that.
Love is what men will respond to, as was expressed so eloquently in Lee Green’s recent post ‘Men: what mess are we truly in?’
Love will open up men to consider their responsibilities in all of this mess and this has made a huge difference for me.
And once my awareness was heightened, I felt deeply into how I had contributed to this crazy consciousness of separation between women and men. Don’t kid yourself that it’s not there – I suggest that all men have played their part.
I then began to pay more attention to what was happening around me, and the signals that I hadn’t really acknowledged before were as obvious as XXXL scrotums on a Great Dane.
Just yesterday I noticed…
- An online ad on a website that appeared to be for a high-class brothel with introductory photos of women, then as the ad progressed, it turned out to be for the new QT Hotel in Sydney.
- Headlines on women’s magazines focusing on diets and women’s body images. ‘New Idea’ and ‘The Women’s Weekly’ used to contain reasonable articles – now it’s about looks and celebrity.
- The Gold Coast Bulletin had a half page article about two women who have started a business to provide tours for ladies who want to have cosmetic surgery in Thailand. Another article had a photo of a female body builder in a micro-bikini ‘pumping iron’.
- And last week, Queensland Premier Campbell Newman said Opposition Member Jackie Trad needs to “harden up” and failed to censure fellow Member of Parliament, Ray Stevens, for referring to Ms Trad as “Jihad Jackie”.
So I wrote to the Queensland Premier. A day later I also signed and commented on an online petition to ‘encourage’ the UK’s Sun newspaper to drop their topless page 3 girls. And in future I won’t hold back in discussing these issues with other men and my sons.
I’m not here to be an activist, or to defend women (they can do a good job of that for themselves). But I am now convinced that if we are to accelerate serious change, then men’s support is crucial. Let’s be in it together.
Men, we have much to account for. This is not about paying lip service to women. It’s about reflecting and deeply feeling how each of us has contributed to this pervading consciousness. And with that awareness we will naturally know what to do and say.
By truly engaging with women we’ll discover their essence and how feminine, sexy, playful, loving and amazing they are. How could we possibly belittle that?
The times they are a changing…
The Truth about Universal Medicine 
The times will change when women start to embrace the beauty they innately are. Right now it seems more like they are in the build up to compete in some gladiator show than aiming for true equality. They seem to think that equality is becoming equal to men to where they are at but it’s not about becoming a man but claiming back what it’s like to truly be a woman, and it’s not about pumping iron or hanging upside-down in some new found exercise but re-find that preciousness that many will avoid like the plague, unfortunately so.
I love this blog Rod. It’s down to earth and a great account of how the ‘times are changing’, and how we can facilitate this change to become something that is evolutionary and that brings about true equality, rather than being a ‘drive’ to fight the opposite gender and blame various outlets for the state of society.
I have a committed to the part of seeing women as sex objects. I realise now that if we honour women for the inner-stillness they naturally hold this will support men to be more caring and respectful towards them and themselves. I love to honour women by honouring how tender and delicate I am first.
So true we need to step up and act on what we see of what is going on. Things will not change when we stay in silence, hence it is super important that we deal with what comes our way small or little.
When we are trapped in time, nothing can really change even if things may look different.
Reading this highlights how lost we are, not only men but women also. How can we ever get to a position of respect and understanding with all this nonsense going on?
Indeed Rod we all respond to love but often have withdrawn ourselves from fully letting it in or sharing it with others due to our hurts and rejections.
We all have or are still playing our part in the separation between the genders, between women and men and that is important to be aware of. It will not be governments that will make an end to this behaviour by enforcing equality laws or by action groups. Yes they can bring the awareness or the attention to the subject but is each and everyone of us that has to take their responsibility in it to make this separation by gender issue to be a thing of the past.
It is harmful to paint men in pictures of aggression and force, so many fathers must have felt this pressure to be the boss, to play hard, to be the person that dishes out discipline. We are all equally sweet and sensitive and it is time that each gender considers this in all our relationships.
When we try to bring equality through competing, we reject the other which actually adds to the ‘one is better than the other’. Never ever in history has this approach been truly successful in bringing people together, rather one side dominates followed by the other side and so on.
I agree it is not just men making women less, or objectifying women’s body, women have bought into that too. True equality is not an ideal we strive for, it is an innateness we come to by accepting what is.
In burying the woman, we bury ourselves beside her.
A brilliantly balanced piece of writing Rod, we’ve all been part of what’s occurring between men and women, whether we make ourselves small and give our power away, or look the other way, or compete to be best – so it makes sense that we all need to take our part in correcting it, no massive revolution needed but simply taking responsibility for not contributing to it anymore on a daily basis.
Such a well written article Rod. I love how much respect your expressing for not just women, but your fellow brothers also. It’s not about saving women or protecting them, but standing equally beside them and respecting and appreciating everything they offer. Amazing!
Having been in my 20’s during the time of the birth of the Women’s Lib movement I can honestly say this so-called liberation, although breaking down a lot of what needed to be deconstructed, also came at a price, and this price was the alienation of men and women. I didn’t want to hate men and I didn’t want to go out to work and leave my young children in the care of someone else, and I definitely didn’t burn my bra, but at the same time I had moments of feeling guilty that I didn’t go along with the cry of the revolution. And today I am still glad as I know that there is a true ‘revolution’ that is very slowly growing and this is as a result of “women expressing from a foundation of love while standing in their power”. Now this is the way to bring true change to the world.
Well said Ingrid, sometimes we think we have to be radical and make a lot of noise for change to occur, but the biggest changes come from each person by claiming who they are and that nothing in the world will change, alter or sway that.
The objectification of women is something we (as a society) have allowed to run rampant for far too long. I can’t help but ask the questions, what is it about women in their glory that we don’t want to see and feel? Why must we pull women apart every chance we get?
Yes when either gender goes about trying to obtain equality by rejecting the other gender it will never truly work, as history has so clearly shown us.
Beautifully written Rod, it is definitely time for true communication between men and women, and for that conversation to be based on love.
“The times they are a changing…” when women learn to express from their tender divine power and sacredness this allows men to express their own innate tenderness and sensitivity, bringing loving equality to both sexes.
‘Women expressing from a foundation of love…’ – now there’s something worth putting on page 3…and 4…and 5…
This is a beautiful and healing article for both men and women. Ironically, the state of play we have been left with today as a result of women reacting, getting angry about the status quo and wanting liberation and equality from a place that does not honour the femaleness within them – because it cannot when a woman goes into aggressive or bullish behaviour, for there is nothing female about that – is a huge reflection for the state of play in the world at a much vaster level. It is not by pushing, or getting angry and screaming for change that change takes place. It is only from and with Love that change can truly occur -without any pushing, coercing or inflicting pressure from a righteous vantage point, but from the unwavering understanding and knowing that all of us come from the one same source that is this Love. The healing occurs in the space we allow and in the zero judgement that is felt. And this is where a woman who naturally holds the seed of nurturing for all, can truly lead the way.
Beautiful Rod, when we remove the blame we direct at the other gender for not being true, it’s like it clears the air for us both to share the real feelings that are there. From this place we can support each other in such powerful ways. The men vs women stuff is so very harmful and has occurred to hold us back from finding out that men are not from Mars and neither women from Venus but we are all from the stars with a Universal remit to work together to heal our hurts and return to the Love that we are. All sorts of idealogiies and obstacles will come in the way but they’re not the truth of our natural way.
The more things change, the more they stay the same! The BBC listed its top salary earners over 100,000 and you don’t have to guess who was being paid less for doing the same jobs. The ripples carried on to those that earned less than 100,000 also. A lot of women received almost immediate pay rises, but why did it have to wait, till the corporation was publicly shamed?
Gender inequality has been a battle within my own Indian family and community, men have their place – the providers, the toughies, whilst the women are the matriarchs and their place is in the kitchen or with the children.
Then I come a long and rock it all and question why is it that women have to cook or clean why can’t the men do it too. It’s taken a while but my family are getting used to me and the choices I have made, I reflect to them there is another way and we are all equal. Small changes lead the way to the truth.
Now that was a hard hitting blog with a touch of humor, calling to hand the ultimate weapon, ‘love’. The only weapon to bring about any true great change in our world.
Now that was a damn good comment Kim. Loved it!
Rod, this is a fantastic blog… your honesty is compelling and your honouring of women is a breath of fresh air. There is much men and women come together when we come together in truth. May this be the beginning of true equality whist appreciating our differences.
You highlight some great points here Rod about the inequality we still experience between the sexes. I can feel the responsibility we each hold, as a man or woman, to call out any behaviour that is less than loving and begin to re-imprint all our relationships with a deep respect and appreciation for the qualities that both men and women equally bring to this world.
Great article Rod – no one can blame anyone else… both sides; men and women, have been responsible for the dynamic that now plays out, and its going to take both to tear down those walls and break the paradigm that has been built through the ages.
“It’s about reflecting and deeply feeling how each of us has contributed to this pervading consciousness” This brings the responsibility right to our doorstep Rod. We can all do something about it, not by hardening up or by belittling another but by calling for love, decency and respect.
“The times they are a changing…” . . . They certainly are Rod with men like you writing articles like this
In the changing of times it’s interesting to look back and reflect if truly anything has changed with this topic. I mean if you scratch the surface of somethings you still see the underlying tone is one that doesn’t truly support women or people. I mean it’s true and I appreciate we are seeing more and more of a balance in numbers to certain things but there is so so much still out of balance that it needs to go further. I not sure we are going about this the right or true way when as a collective group we are becoming more and more unwell. It’s possible there is a way women and men are needing to be that doesn’t look the same but has an equal ness feeling to it. There is a way for us both to live that respect ourselves and everything there after.
There is a very seriously established narrative of female achieving /striving for independence, freedom and equality that is simply not true in the deeper sense of the word. The issue is not just that it is not true but also that it is deeply harming women.
Rod, you are a supremely gorgeous man for writing such an article. And I really liked the way you have taken yourself out and started to take part in what is going on in the wider world and not just contained your insights to your own life or family. Everyone deserves to hear your voice, it is very powerful.
Isn’t it lovely how we can appreciate someone else for speaking up and it inspires us to do the same! Everyone deserves a voice – quite right, so if you have one, then use it with responsibility and step into the accountability that goes hand in hand with freedom of speech.
I love how you bring it back to all of us playing a part in the equality or inequality we have.
THIS ARTICLE MADE MY LAUGH! I love the way you write, it creates a picture of a time and the essence of what true equality is, is all captured so well in the way that you talk about women.
For men to truly change women will also have to change the way they feel about themselves so that we can restore the equallness of all.
As a woman I have noticed that when I have full respect and care for myself this is how I am treated by others however when I drop this, go into doubt or let self loathing run then how I am treated by others also changes.
Equality to me does not mean we are all exactly the same, but rather a respectful equation that together adds up, makes sense and takes us to the correct answer in the full appreciation of our own unique contributions.
Rod that was really a clear message to all of us – “It’s about reflecting and deeply feeling how each of us has contributed to this pervading consciousness.” If more are willing to take their own responsibility then a change is something what has to happen very naturally.
It’s a great start Rod and one of our biggest problems. The more awareness we each bring as men and women to ourselves by living our truth as the sensitive beings we are, acknowledging what is love and what is not, will rebirth the power within. Change will come from honestly expressing our truth.
In order for a man to truly be a man, he must be loved by a true woman, be they daughter, sister, wife, partner or friend. It is the same requirement for women from the men. And so while we play ball with the ‘battle of the sexes’ that has run rampant for countless centuries we are in-truth delaying our evolution and reneging our responsibility to live all that we are, right here and now. Thank you Rod for a gorgeous call to lay down our weapons and truly seek to rebalance what we have let get so out of control.
Indeed, when we stay in this ‘battle of the sexes’, the gender inequality, we only go round and round without going anywhere and too without any advancing or evolution. After all you can say that our next step in our evolution will be to let go of this creation of inequality as in truth it does not exist and therefore will be an important step for mankind in regaining the true power that living in union brings.
Eloquent summary of the battle for women to be equal to men. The challenge is we are all already equal in our essence, and so no battle is required, but instead a return to living as the person we are.
Awesome Article, it is for us to take responsibility and love the request you pointed to us men, it is for us to discover love and be in our essence that we truly are able to connect with the preciousness that is in women, and reminding us of this preciousness within us too.
I could not agree more – the responsibility for true equality rests not just with women, it is a matter for all of us and it starts in childhood, with the way we bring up and educate our young. And it also starts within all of us as we individually become honest about our hurts and take responsibility for our healing and evolution. In the bigger scheme of things, discrimination, burning bras and violence have no room at all and are an aberration, no matter how ‘normal’ it may all seem.
Ultimately the responsibility for change is within each and every one of us. We have all contributed to where we are today with the widespread abuse and denigration of women. Staying silent is to tacitly agree with what is going on, so it is time to call out abuse when we experience it in our lives.
Exactly Rod, no time to belittle, there is no truth in that. As women are super powerful, we must come back to who we truly are, not at all what we have currently been told and let ourselves believe. And so like you share , this is the same for us all ladies, let’s all truly claim what is love back:
”Men, we have much to account for. This is not about paying lip service to women. It’s about reflecting and deeply feeling how each of us has contributed to this pervading consciousness. And with that awareness we will naturally know what to do and say.”
Spot on Roslyn – it is high time we changed the way we are with each other and bring more respect, care and honesty in the way we relate as women and men.
Rod, you have opened up a conversation here that is much needed – your whole blog discusses how women have over eons disempowered themselves and in this process men have taken this as a means to behave in inappropriate ways. But the key to this all, is really as women to not feed this situation – this is done by not disempowering ourselves! Someone can only be a victim if they allow themselves to be one and if they feed the situation. As a society, as a collective, it is for all of us to say no to what is currently happening, and work together for a different way of being together.
Thank you Rod for a great blog, both men and women have their part to play in the equality stakes. When we come from love for self and then love for each other we realise that both men and women have the same qualities though expressed differently through the genders.
Too often women have had to push themselves and toughen up and compete with men in order to be respected or recognised especially in the workplace. As your blog so beautifully illustrates Rod, what is missing often is women in their true power and connecting to others with love and understanding – women are naturally great at this and how needed in today’s world it is for the harmony, lightness and warmth it brings to any situation.
It seems to me that both men and women are responsible for the messed up way of the world, a world where women are attempting to achieve gender equality but doing it in a way that they end up acting and working like men which has such a negative impact on the delicate women’s body that they inhabit. As a result many men have become confused as to their role in the world and that too is impacting on their bodies. Maybe it is time to claim the gender that we are, honour all those around us, both men and women, for the unique attributes they bring to the world and begin the conversation as to how we can being to live and work together in a way that honours each and every one of us.
Great article and so poignant in today’s world. Both men and women have put each other and themselves down. Negative stereotypes of both genders are lived by men and women and we all miss out on the qualities we each innately have that can bring lived divinity to the world. I have a responsibility to keep uncovering who I truly am as a woman and live honouring and appreciating these qualities which, when lived, allows us all to trust each other and be our beautiful selves.
Thank you Rod, as this blog made me contemplate about my role in the existence of the separation between genders. When I am truly honest with myself I do feel very uncomfortable with how women are portrayed and used in the media, and from that I know, as in essence we are all the same, that other men must feel this as well but are not honest about that, and with that ignorant to their true nature. That said, this to me clearly indicates that all the atrocities to women and the gender inequality can only exist because we all allow it to exist. We cannot blame the media as they are just a part of the whole. It all comes down to the fact that we all have to take our own responsibility and that is to live to our essence to the best of our ability and when we live that all the atrocities that we see in our societies today will have not space to exist in anymore.
Rod I have to say I love your humour, much needed in such a subject that evoke much in the majority of us. What I can see in your article is that we all have a part to play – we are all responsible in other words for our thoughts, actions and behaviours and how we are towards each other. How we have been is not working for nothing is really changing. While it may seem ok here in Australia (but is it really?), there are many countries around the world where it isn’t. Working together in a way that truly supports both men and women equally is definitely the way.
Well said Rod, ‘Love will open up men to consider their responsibilities’. When both men and women work together it is truly magical. We are designed to work together not fight and oppose each other.
‘We don’t have to dig deep to sense the tone of what is going on.’ Absolutely it is going on and around for all of us to see and we are very much in this together. Thanks for this article Rod and for starting to actively call out abuse and degrading comments with regards to women and girls. There is much work to be done here.
It’s not just about men supporting women because they are aware of the challenges women face, it’s about men returning to their true gentlemanly ways and surrendering to what the true essence of a man is – in this they automatically know what is caring and loving for all equally, and the actions they take comes from this place within themselves. True change comes from us all living the truth of the love we see and acting upon its impulses – man and woman.
Social Gender differences are far more than just at the level of work, religious, cultural and legal levels. It exists far deeper than the way women are viewed and held by men (and themselves). It lies in the fact of whether a woman is held as an equal. A true, loving and beautiful being no different to a man regardless of the choices made in her life of whether to express that beauty in full or not. The fact is, as men, we are implementing a level of control by not holding a woman as such. Perhaps we are avoiding the reflection of power, love and truth that will be seen when a woman is truly allowed to be?
The belittlement of women has become so normal that I do not often realise it could be different. After reading your blog though I know it can be different and that it is not as you say “Paying lip service to women” but about feeling that the way we are living now in general together as women and men is not how we could be living harmoniously.
Thank you Rod, it is for us to let go of the images we have been conditioned with and are therefore holding onto about gender in our society and take responsibility for ourselves to connect with our bodies and get to know our own quality within as it is only then that we will realise that there is no difference between gender as we are all the same and just express in our own unique ways.
Rod, I love what you have shared in this article. One of the problems with feminism and feminine ‘rights’ is that they come out of a reaction and an anger and a position of defence. It does not come from a depth of true value and respect for self and for all others, male or female. And I can understand why this is, as there has been an eons long repression of women. But emotions and reactions do not lead to real change. Real change comes first from within, and this is as you have said Rod, is for each and every woman to step into their power and not be scared to express with love and care and deep deep respect for all.
It is a salient point, that alienation of men, it goes for any point of view, it is much more effective and strongly delivered when it is not done to get another side to submit or feel bad, but instead the voice speaking has claimed very strongly what they know to be true, so in this case it is true that women are worthy of being treated equally in all aspect of society with men. In terms of this equality the responsibility lies strongly with both men and women, to change the subtle yet very harmful denigration of women through the images and actions that proliferate, one clear example being in media where we see women valued for what they wear, but not who they are or the other qualities they possess. Today we see another female prime minister in the UK, but has this woman had to compromise her own feminine qualities to succeed in this role, if the answer to this question is yes then we still have a long way to go to create real gender equality.
It’s true Rod we all need to question the actual quality of evolution we have had as a society as a result of the women’s revolution and fully accept the level to which we have not only alienated men but have alienated ourselves for our own sacredness as a woman in that same process.
Totally agree Rod – its time we reflected back to women how much the world needs their femininity in all its power, and not that we need women that can out compete men! We do that enough between ourselves!
It is gorgeous to see a man deeply appreciate and be somewhat enamoured by the beauty and compelling nature of ‘women expressing from a foundation of love while standing in their power’. Somewhere along the way women thought being sexy and beating men at their own game was the way to go and as a result sadly stopped living and embracing the former way of being …. A way which has the potential to heal all the latter rubbish we have taken that made us lose ourselves as women in the process and allow men to treat us accordingly.
The denigration of women is not only harmful to women but to men also for they are not then receiving the true loveliness that a woman can bring to a relationship, which in turn can support them to acknowledge and not hold back their own true tenderness and gentle qualities. We need to start respecting, appreciating and honouring both genders for who they are, seeing beyond how they look or what they do and not keep these superficial relationships that avoid true intimacy from evolving, because in truth, true equality comes with seeing us all as part of the one humanity, each with our own unique expression and has nothing, nor should have, anything really to do with gender.
A best, behaviour has changed, but in many cases, not even that. Our problem is with the term gender equality. That is never going to occur. Men have different physical characteristics that are always going to give them the edge with hard physical labour. Women are the only ones who can bear children, which often affects their lifestyle. What we need to do is change the term, and instead of seeking gender “equality”, seek a different form of equality – one that traverses gender and has nothing to do with it. Underneath we are all equal, but that is not the physical reality, and so we need to distinguish the two. As for gender equality, would we should really be saying is we need to work towards an appreciation of gender. That would be much more realistic.
Thank you Rod for writing this. It is about men and women taking responsibility to make a true change in the way we are living. For women to claim the loveliness they are and live that in full and for men to respect that beauty in women and with that in themselves. In the end it is all about love – for men and women equally.
Thank you Rod,the sensitivity and awareness you share in this topic of equality is lovely, and highlights the responsibility women have towards themselves, ..”women expressing from a foundation of love while standing in their power…” which is, the key for any change to occur.
Rod -Thank you for standing up and calling out the truth of the situation re how woman are treated in our society today. ‘If we are to accelerate serious change, then men’s support is crucial. Let’s be in it together.’
Thank you Rod and in addition to this I am finding that it is also my responsibility as a woman to not shy away from who I am, no matter the circumstances. This will also go a long way to not feed the denigration of women.
You make some great points Rod about the mistreatment of women in the media and in society in general. Starting this conversation is a big step and I appreciate that you are now making a stand and sharing this with other men with your life.
Beautiful blog Rod, so sensible and practical and real about what is happening EVERYDAY. We can effect change and this CAN start by us speaking about what we know is not right.
“Let’s be in it together” – Yes and “Love is what men will respond to,”- two key points for me in your blog. No more separation – brotherhood is the key.
The word that stands out for me in this article is ‘respect’. I feel that there is an underlying consciousness in many women for them to not respect themselves and ‘in trying to be more like men’ they are automatically making themselves lesser and not honouring and respecting the strength and natural beauty they have as a woman. If a woman does not respect herself this is the message she is giving to others. Universal Medicine inspires women to know and feel who they truly are and to respect themselves and everyone else as equals.
It’s great to read about your views on how and the extent to which men have contributed and continue to contribute to the prevailing consciousness about women. But what stands out for me is the real gift you have given women here in stating that you found that ‘Love is what men will respond to’ and that ‘Love will open up men to consider their responsibilities’. You’ve given women the key to unlocking the trick, the secret, the answer to building a successful relationship with men, be that a partner, a friend, father, brother etc. Pure gold.
Great article Rod. Many of us seem to have default settings that fall back into some very unfortunate stereotypes. It is worth discussing this and becoming aware of these stereotypes and the language that comes with them, so that we can honour one another rather than restricting one another with roles that no longer serve us. When we treat each other with love and respect we will truly move forward. It is so lovely to be supported by men to really find equality for all in this world.
Awesome sharing Rod. The 3 main pointers for me were: “we need open and honest communication”; “To not hold back”; and “Lets be in it together”. I’m there.
Both genders have their equal parts played in this game of inequality but the cool thing is that love is genderless. Why try and base equality on a gender that naturally is different from the other? it’s never going to work. Basing equality on a quality that men and women equally hold within makes far more sense.
Great blog Rod. Both sexes have a part to play in bringing about true gender equality, but basing the relationship on a foundation of honesty, love and repect is a great starting point.
Much needed article Rod for us all to look at how do we interact with each other? Is the foundation of our relationships based on love, respect, appreciation, honesty and open communication?
True equality in both sexes starts with us developing a more loving and honest relationship with ourselves, and dealing with our hurts. Rod- by standing up and saying how it is – is a message for us all to reflect on our own relationship first.
I have just read this superb blog and realised we are three years away from when it was first published.
Its message of the need to bring true equality to the relationships between the sexes rings as true today as it did then. In Rod’s words, ‘If we are to accelerate serious change, then men’s support is crucial. Let’s be in it together.’ Men have been called to step up, claim and live the truth of what true, respectful relationships with women are in all areas of life. Women likewise are called to express ‘from a foundation of love while standing in their power.’ Women accepting, appreciating and expressing from the love they are is what men will respond to. Our living in a true and loving way supports men to consider how they too are contributing to this mess that currently exists in the world.
Great article Rod. I agree that we women are often complicit in the treatment we receive from men. Both sexes need to recognise and appreciate what the other has to offer since we are here to complement each other. For me it starts with putting a stop to my self denigration and comparing how well or bad I can accomplish something based on my gender. Harmony is what we need to thrive for.
Thank you for writing this beautiful and very important blog, we all have a part to play. And as men it is time to change our way of being, in connection with ourselves and with the women around us. The believes and ideas men and women have about each other are only bringing us down. While we can honour each others qualities, which will bring true equality.
That is important to acknowledge Benkt, that we all have played a role in how the situation has become up to date, and to acknowledge that we can play an important role to undo the atrocities that this way of living as different sexes has brought us. We are all equal, men and women both to be respected for the unique qualities each gender brings.
This is such an amazing article Rod! Having someone speak so equally of men and women is truly refreshing. We all deserve to pay each other more respect, and standing up and calling out the rubbish when we see it is a great start. We do however, more importantly need to take responsibility for the state of society, because as you say, we have all contributed.
Rod I loved how you expressed yourself in relation to women’s equality, and how you are responding against articles that display or write about women in a derogative way. We have to stand up and be counted, in order to bring any change, and I loved the fact that you are talking to your son about these subjects, as we need to pass our wisdom on to the younger generation, so they too can learn that we made mistakes, and that love is about us all being equal in brotherhood together.
Times have changed, but like has been recounted many times before ‘history repeats itself’. What then would change the ebb and flow from strong to week positions (as women or men for that matter) is only truly one thing: equality. Be it a man or a women, whether you hold them in lower or higher regard than yourself, it’s no good for you and no good for them. Love this blog Rod; very insightful.
Love it Rod! What it brought up for me was a throw-away comment that I have heard said Sooo many times by women within my family and social circle “He’s only a man” or something to that effect, and I must out myself also, as I am sure I have said it numerous times too. It may be said, or defended, that this line is only said in jest, but it is so revealing of the thoughts and beliefs that fester beneath the polite and socially acceptable surface ready to erupt at any time. As you mentioned, it is needed that we connect to our foundation of Love which is equal in all and from there uproot all these insidious false beliefs about the different genders, socio-economic status, age, nationality and/or anything really that is used as a tool for separation within our world etc. by calling them out as they present in our lives.
Thanks Rod for a great blog which I think exposes how both sexes have turned a blind eye to how the current situation which perpetuates the status quo of inequality, has really developed. As more men and women start to turn back to an awareness and acceptance of the fact that love, tenderness and gentleness are at the foundation of all human beings, more people are slowly breaking old patterns of behaviour. What is created in place of the hardness is something that is rich and powerful for all to enjoy.
When we re-connect to the love that we are, all the barriers melt away. I know that as I have deepened my self love and care it has allowed me to be less defensive in the world and to be more embracing of both men and women. If we all take responsibility for how things have become we can begin to truly evolve back to respecting each individual for who they are be they man or woman. Whether we be man or woman we have these same tender and gentle feelings inside which when we explore this side of us together we can begin to build true harmony in the world.
When we create space we see all as equal brothers or brotherhood. If we paint someone into a corner or place them in a box, we restrict our own ability to see the space. True love brings space, thus allowing free will, and choice to accelerate to brotherhood as so desired by each individual – maybe I should use sisterhood in this context, although they are one and the same. Thank you Rod, times have changed! Or should I say space has changed!
A super, enjoyable example and description throughout the decades Rod, your post is full of truth and calls on equal responsibility for both genders; that the denigration of women is a shared issue held in our psyche and for both sexes to look at their parts towards its pervading consciousness as you write. It’s not until we do become honest about an issue [sexism, denigration, abuse, subservience, demise of women, and so on], that the issue itself allows us to see…to become more obvious or clearer to see. See – to see more. See – to see truth. See – to speak up and do something about it.
There is nothing more powerful than when a person regardless of gender expresses from a foundation of self love and with the authority of who they are. Truly inspiring .
This what you share here Rod is truly powerful and love your last sentence ‘by truly engaging with woman we’ll discover their essence and how feminine, sexy, playful, loving and amazing they are. How could we possibly belittle that ? I wholeheartedly agree.
Great article Rod. I have noticed that the more I claim myself as a woman the more respect I generate. The more I allow the tender side of my nature and open to a greater honesty and allow myself to feel love, true love, not the emotional kind there is a lovely feeling of equalness and no bra burning is required.
Great Rod, love it. Change it must and lead the way we must. No more silently shaking our heads and tut tutting. We have to speak up so that those who represent us know what we want, and those who make the magazines and papers hear and notice what their readers want. As consumers and customers we hold great sway – if only we knew how to use it!
Portrayed over the decades from housewives to whores the true essence of a woman has not been celebrated. When women express from their inner beauty, love and power and are seen for who they truly are, then men and society will respond such as you have, and portray and appreciate them accordingly in line with the true foundation they have chosen to stand on.
Thank you for stating so clearly how feminism hasn’t really changed much about how women are perceived by men, not many are that honest. If equality is won on the basis of equalling and surpassing men in the toughness and hardness stakes, then nothing has indeed been gained.
I can feel levels of protection drop away when I read your blog Rod, it was welcoming to read your views on how we – both men and women – can come together in honest and loving ways to have the conversation around what is truly going on for men and women.
As you say Rod, if the times are to change it requires both sexes working together for this to occur.
Thank you Rod for bringing light into a huge topic, clearly it is not about gender equality but more about taking responsibility of how we choose to live and express in the world and to honour the qualities that are innate within us all regardless of gender.
Awesome article Rod – and thank you for the way you have expressed and discussed the matter of women and men, and the many ideals and beliefs that get in the way of our natural and beautiful way of relating and being. I recall a time when I was doing student united nations in high school and presented about censoring pornography. This turned out to be a very touchy topic with so much emotion from people on all sides – those who felt so strongly that it needed to be stopped and many more that felt it was needed by society for various reasons. Interesting to feel though was that with the heightened emotion around the topic, any true relating and understanding of another and another’s opinion evaporated and hence respect for both men and women was out the window. What you bring back with our writing is the respect and honouring of both sexes – saying that we have each disempowered ourselves and each other and that it is time to take responsibility and be there to offer support in a loving way. Thank you Rod – it may take time to change this over all in society, but we can begin this in our own homes today and the ripple effect will be felt all over.
There has been a lot of discrimination against women over time and that does need to be corrected. However the way we are with each other, men and women, men with men and women with women is also a huge problem. We just don’t seem to be ‘doing’ relationships all that well! Treating each other as equals and being open to be more loving with each other seems like a great way to start. Lip service will never change anything. It needs to come from our hearts.
Wow Rod, that is something I agree in 100%. And just as you said, it is not only in the little things. As long as men can – pay women to objectify themselves, women are killed after birth in India or burned when pregnant from abuse of family members, women try to be better men – then equality is out of reach.
“Let’s be in it together” – says it all really. I love the way you write Rod, it makes me giggle whilst also undertaking a reading of a serious and needed message. The way women and men are in this world does need a new way of thinking around it because there is great inequality in this world. But it needs a together approach for women to be claiming themselves much more and for men to be appreciating the exquisiteness that women can bring and together calling out where that does not happen – on a daily basis.
Rod my whole body melted when you said that love is what men will respond too. And that has been the missing ingredient to the ‘feminist’ cause and why it has not bought about any change as you share. Crucially it is love for our selves as women that will then bring about change in the outside world as it is only a reflection of the inner abuse women have towards themselves shown in our media.
Rod you’ve made it apparent that it doesn’t really have anything to do with just women, and addressing sexism is not specifically for women- but for all, equally. The way you’ve written it at the end suggests that you’ve seen something that’s not okay happening with a group and your prepared to call it out- the sex doesn’t come into play but the fact we are all people. Loved reading it…And, just to clarify, I do look hot in this dress. 😉
This article is truly ahead of its time, and I am sure that it will be a while before its true meaning is accepted. Feminism in the last quarter of the last century achieved much in the way of certain societal freedoms for women. They fought hard for equal rights, and still to this day fight against oppression in what is still really a man’s world. Yet you are right Rod in what you say, that women have mostly succeeded by proving that they can match or indeed outdo the men. But perhaps that is not necessarily something to be proud of. For who is to say that men have it right? Who is to say that business should be brutal and cold? Who is to say that to punish one’s body and mind for the sake of achievement is actually true. Over many years I have seen a handful of women enter the construction industry. Most who entered truly had no effect on the building culture, trying as they did to out do the men. But on occasion I saw a woman hold her femininity, bring a gentle and caring touch to what she did, and it changed things immediately. Men caught themselves when they were brusk, or their language was harsh. They stopped being so aggressive. This in itself is an amazing insight into what the true power a woman holds when she refuses to sell herself out in order to prove that she is worthy, but rather carries herself in the absolute knowing of her true self worth.
Inspirational Adam, particularly how you have shown us how we as individuals (male or female) can make a genuine difference to the culture within a workplace, by not giving in to the prevailing customs and instead, by simply being ourselves.
Ah yes, being ourselves, it’s the cure to all ills.
As men, for me in particular, denegration of women can go under the radar unexpressed, and not called out for what it is. When I observe myself in this way, it is sickening how it can be so endorsed in society.
Thankyou Rod (:
Thanks Rod for a blog that is written with both intelligence and a love of people. I can’t agree more with your topic, there is no finger pointing or battle of the sexes here, both men and women have a part to play in the re-balancing of gender equality. It is easy to find examples of women being denigrated, the global statistics on domestic violence towards women are astronomical and unequal pay for women comes with a host of repercussions that leave women disadvantaged in many ways. These are blatant examples of systems, largely controlled by men with power, that suppress women but when we turn the tables to look at the responsibility women have in this dynamic or rather how women perpetuate the status quo it is not so clear cut. For example – it is fairly agreeable to say men should not use their physical strength to dominate over women but it gets murky when we explore the ways women give their power away to men and essentially give permission for the the very behaviour women later complain about. As you say, so much of men’s behaviour is ‘tolerated’, ‘forgiven’ and or ‘excused’ by women that when the woman finally cracks the resentment is so deep that men as you explained Rod are shocked by the force that comes from the woman and leaves men debased, destabilised and confused. So, the call for women to bring love consistently for everyone is tremendously important and this in itself warrants further discussion. Rod you have touched on a profound subject and brought forward many examples of what women say for women to consider how these words damage and how women could be contributing to gender inequality. There is a big topic to explore here.
I agree Rod, true equality is what we are after. The past movements have been made with a push to prove that one sex is as good as the other, or better. This will never work in our society as it will only create more division amongst us. If we are to recognise that men and women are one and the same, now this will bring about change.
Well said tonysteenson, I totally agree and as Rod says, to bring about this change, “It’s about reflecting and deeply feeling how each of us has contributed to this pervading consciousness”.
Rod thank you for your deeply insightful blog. Love is the way for both men and women.
Thank you Rod for showing how we, as women have not truly engaged with men. You are right the feminist movement did not include men nor did it allow for the tender and loving side of women to be broadcast, unless it was pinned to a role such as mother or nurse. But how I remember it it was a hard edged movement. We women, in allowing our connection to that tenderness and to communicate with men from that space feels totally different. That tenderness that is in us is not always felt so to allow the reconnection to that and build that feeling in ourselves feels like the way to go.
elainearthy, I realised could reword your sentence: “We women, in allowing our connection to that tenderness and to communicate with men from that space feels totally different” by substituting the words ‘women’ for ‘men’ and ‘men’ for ‘women’ so it would read as: “We men, in allowing our connection to that tenderness and to communicate with women from that space feels totally different”
If we were to all to do so, there would never be an issue with inequality between men and women
This is so very true rodharvey – men are equally as tender as women.
Thanks for sharing this Rod. As men we play a major role in the way women are treated. I agree with the mixed messages being sent and that it is lovely to read the blogs posted by women writing from love rather than the reaction of the early women’s liberation movement, although burning bras was before my time. For me, it is about truly feeling my relationships with women, and men, and if I ever feel another as less than equal to me then I have something to ponder on deeply, regardless of their gender. Likewise, if I ever feel myself as less than another there is something for me to ponder about my relationship with me.
Thank you Rod. I have noticed in recent years on UK TV that the pendulum has swung and many ads portray men as brainless nincompoops and that the woman ‘wears the pants’. We need to bring equality back to an harmonious balance and let go of the setting women against men and men against women.
When I worked in an office some years ago there was a whole spate of ‘brainless nincompoop’ jokes about men. I hated them, as I have always felt that men are men, women are women, together we make a great team, and that the feminist movement had left men confused and bewildered about their role. I absolutely loved Rods article, and especially his last line ‘by truly engaging with women we’ll discover their essence and how feminine, sexy, playful, loving and amazing they are’. And in turn women will re discover how the gentle strength, playfulness and love of a man in his essence enriches all our lives and makes a great team amazing. Oh, I forgot, they can be sexy too!
That’s a fantastic sentence to make the article complete Catherine.
Awesome Rod! I love the following sentence and it brought tears to my eyes ‘But I am now convinced that if we are to accelerate serious change, then men’s support is crucial. Let’s be in it together.’ Thank you for sharing, calling this separation between men and women out, and most of all taking responsibility for contributing to this consciousness. An inspirational blog for all women and men.
So true Rod. Only by men and women working together and speaking from our power rather than from reaction and hurt can true change come about.
The marketing that has come to be our norm in the world is quite staggering when we really stop and look at it. Every image is either there to define us or undermine us and this is true for both men and women. Its pretty crazy really when we consider how narrow the images we are sold are, nothing truly represents men and women in the world today. Instead it is an ideal of an image we are all supposed to crave, no wonder that we have such warped gender identities. As you say Rod, it is so refreshing to read what many women who are living The Way of the Livingness, as presented by Universal Medicine, who speak truth from their power with no attempt to undermine or belittle men, as we men will all respond to love when it is so purely shown.
Equality is not about outdoing anyone, this would not even make grammatical sense, as one is trying to be more than the other. Equality is about coming from ones fullness inspiring others to remember they are as equally amazing. We all have different expressions. When it comes to men and women we have very different expressions, and naturally different body physique’s that support us to express this. To try to do something your body is not built for is a suppression of who you are, it definitely does not bring equality.
Toni your words are magic. That is power of equality right there.
This is a beautiful, tender article deeply healing to read for both men and women, to come together without the familiar schisms, walls and perceived differences and begin to really appreciate what women and men naturally bring from their true essence.
Wonderful and truly inspiring blog Rod. I couldn’t agree with you more about the need for us to band together to stamp out the discrimination about the Female Sex. To see the equality of the Sexes and the love and respect that we all deserve will bring us together as one, even though we are at the same time different in our expression.
This is an amazing testament to truth Rod. A truth the many, even woman themselves have ignored and that is that we are not equal by what we do we are first equal in who we are within us.
Great expression Rod, definitely ‘times are changing’ and how amazing it is when as women we express from a foundation of love whilst at the same time stand in our true power. I agree Rod it is beautiful and compelling and an inspiration to everyone everywhere.
Amazing blog Rod, you have hit the nail very directly on the head when it comes to present relationships between men and women. And yes, both sides have a lot to answer for, but it doesn’t have to be this way. Accepting responsibility for being true to ourselves will go a long way to creating a true balance between men and women. And I agree also with what you say here –
“Many women have given their power away and men take advantage. Then, when the woman says ‘enough is enough’, men receive mixed messages and get confused. We need open and honest communication”… Been there, done that. No wonder that men get confused! Let’s stop playing games and start to be honest and open with each other and accept each other for who we are, and begin to develop true relationships with each other, and this starts with ourselves first. Thank you Rod, you are a true gentle-man.
Rod, I love how you shared your observation that the women’s revolution aimed at gaining the equality of men and women had ‘an edge to it, a drive and, dare I say it, many women ‘toughened up’ to compete against men’. Women and men should never compete with each other as we both have qualities and strengths that are different. Qualities and strengths that actually complement each other to bring out the care, respect and appreciation we can express to each other and have for each other. It would be awesome if all men and women realised and accepted this fact and committed to complementing each other instead of working against each other. Now that is a world I would love to live in….
A fair share of denigration and contributing to the separation that exists between men and women, indeed – I put my hand-up, for I’ve lived what seems a whole other life already. In my early twenties I ran around the Caribbean with a Cocktail (the Tom Cruise movie) style swagger and DJ high ego; there’s been much to undo.
Rod, you’re spot-on in your blog, for without opening our eyes and appreciating the awesome women and girls that abound us – they too suffer the might of one of the heaviest consciousnesses globally (sexism might be the word). We’re all the same, just with different body parts, that we put together with love, seem to fit together pretty well if you ask me.
Oliver, your last sentence brought a big smile to my face…which is still there.
Women being like men to be their equal has never worked. In women ‘being like men’ there already is something that is saying ‘no’ to the quality women naturally bring, and that will never achieve true equality.
Your blog feels full of love and tenderness Rod – Your writing often makes me smile, laugh and tear up at the same time. I was really struck by the way you explained how inspiring it is when women “express from a foundation of love while standing in their power”. Wow I could just feel that in every cell of my body. I have spent so much of my life shut down and angry at the world for the abuse of women but haven’t fully stopped to take responsibility and begin to express from this foundation of love. This inspires me also.
Me to Leonne. To stand in my power and express from my love, no longer giving in to expressing in exasperation or frustration. Nor in defense or blame. Simply to stand and express with absolute love for all, the truth in any situation. I feel deeply inspired to make this my way of being in the world.
For a women to stand in their power and express the need for change is as you say so much more powerful than it being said from a place of exasperation or reaction. It has made me take notice of the issues of sexism much more closely and consider the role I have to play. It is also extremely powerful for a man to express his observations on the current societal attitudes towards women, thank you Rod for contributing towards this so strongly. The more men do not accept everyday sexism the easier it will be to start to remove the gender divides and belittlement of women that are so insidiously a part of the world we live in.
I love your sense of humor Rod. So beautifully and respectfully said in your article. Your words are so supportive to read. I agree it is not a female issue or a male issue but a human issue. We are not separate but one of a whole.
Well said Rod. And we are all equally responsible as you say. In the past few decades the way we have gone about equality has been all wrong. We have moved further from who we naturally are instead of claiming more our natural expression as men and women. Women have become tough and more male in their attempt to be equal and succeed, men have lost their compass on what it means to be a man and these days we even see that instead of the women’s culture of having to look better and be hot diminishing, the same culture is growing for men. So a change is very much needed and it begins with each and every one of us. And you Rod, in expressing what you have, already set the change in motion.
This is very beautiful – Thank you !!! I love the power I feel from you.
Rod what shall I say – wow – and yes “Let’s be in it together.” – and I absolutely agree “But I am now convinced that if we are to accelerate serious change, then men’s support is crucial.” So lets have fun with that . . . from a true sexy woman who is inspired from a real man!!!!
I am one of the women who gave their power away and then blamed men for the consequences. I lived through the “feminist” years and yes I became isolated from men. I made them the enemy and the cause of my pain. Since attending Universal Medicine I have felt amazing, healing by connecting with men with openness and trust. I agree Rod that we all, men and women, need to feel what has been allowed in the past and commit to the healing together.
I feel it’s an important topic you have written about Rod, thank you for sharing you insights. Fundamentally sexism is still here; its just changed, women appear to have more freedom and possibilities than the controlled lives they led in the 1950’s for example. But now it feels the new oppression of women is having to have a certain body and look, and also toughen up to fit into a male world with work.
Over time I have not heard many men speak so passionately and with utter respect as what Rod’s article has presented; brings new light to, we are all in this together
I love what you present here Rod. As you say this is not about activism – ‘it’s about us reflecting and deeply feeling how each of us has contributed to this pervading consciousness. And with that awareness we will naturally know what to do and say.’ There is much that needs to be corrected with the current state of inequality between men and women, but rather than approaching the issue from a position of hurt or reaction which is often the basis of activism, there is an opportunity to shift the dialogue to another level. We can all relate to the language of love, so lets start there. Your blog is a beautiful example of this Rod.
Dear Rod, a truly amazing article. As a woman (opps I read it) I have spent much of my life excusing others behaviors, and much of my life living resentful. Both of these things are very yucky and definitely constantly undermining any moments of truth that I brought to the table. Now having an understanding of energy and feeling deeply my worth, this is changing for me. Loved this article, thank you.
Awesome article Rod, the problems we have in society today affect us all whether they are about men or women. Coming together to tackle problems and taking responsibility is the way forward for true change.
‘Love is what men will respond to and love is what women will respond to.’
Yes it is a unifying force for sure.
What I love about what you present here Rod is that you do not make it about the men or the women specifically, you make it about how there is something very wrong in our society and that we all, men and women, need stand for what we feel is the truth.
So very well said Lieke, it is so definitely about us all standing up for the truth. And even more so about loving each other, something I am noticing as I love more is the deep understanding that I am having in situations and how this understanding completely changes old patterns of defense, to now responding lovingly and truthfully. With a respect for all, it is a very beautiful place to be.
This is a very insightful blog Rod. I feel, as you have pointed out, we, men and women, are in this together, equally so. Through taking responsibility for our contribution to the loveliness playing out, I sense that true change is able to occur. Thank you for your great writings.
Well said Gabrielle; without a foundation of love, nothing will ever truly change. And yes, we have been playing ball with the lovelessness. The true change is both men and women’s responsibility.
A beautiful blog. . I love how you express this Rod with both truth and humour. You are right to say men and women are contributing to this. We have allowed it so can also change it, together, with our new found awareness.
Awareness is a great tool in understanding the truth of what is going on around us. I really appreciate your expression here Rod, there was no blame either side, just an opportunity to open our eyes wider and be honest about what we see and feel. We have a long way to go with supporting women globally, but it does start right here in our own backyard so to speak. Also, I’m sure a lot of women will pay attention to what you stated about men needing clear communication.
It is appalling Lee that not only women see this but also young girls and boys. I have always cringed when we go into a news agency or service station and the pornographic imagery on the front pages of magazines at the children’s eye level. What does that show young girls and boys, about women and who they are and what they offer?
Beautiful Rod. Men and women have to work together and help each other to be who they are in truth. As history of humankind in separation has shown, there is a lot of resentment, misgivings, reactions, struggles etc. Stopping this is not easy without a true foundation for women and men that allow each of us to stop the high momentum we carry. That is why what Universal Medicine offers is so important and revolutionary: accepting that who we truly are is not who we think we are. Love is the way for humanity, ergo for women and men.
Rod your expression is priceless and with expression like this the times will change and you must appreciate that you played a part in that!
How refreshing to hear the effect women’s movement, the gains and the losses, from a male perspective. It does not have to be a fight between the sexes. Men can be on the side of women and by their side and together we all win.
You expose what is really happening concerning relationships between men and women brilliantly. There is much we can do to shift inequalities in the world.
What a great history lesson on women and what a blessing to have men like you Rod that see what is truly going on in the world regarding women and take such a strong and loving stand to honour and cherish us for who we truly are.
Rod I felt such togetherness when I read your article, such ‘usness’ and that is truly what’s needed to bring everyone together in harmony. And when the men see and claim the inner beauty in the women (as you did) then the women naturally feel the inner beauty of the men. There’s an exquisite inter twinning of sexes that is actually very natural but oh so rare.
‘Usness’…what a great word Alexis. No men, no women, just ‘US’ (in slightly different shaped bodies)!
As I read your blog, Rod I felt truly honoured as a woman – thank you.
Oh, I love this! Yes, yes and yes! Thank you Gabriele and Rod.
Its great coming from a males perspective thanks Rod
Wow- thank you Rod Harvey. An Exceptional read. I had to read this article the moment I read the title- it just cracked me up. It was great to understand what happened in the past more, things I haven’t really considered. “But there was a fundamental flaw because the revolution alienated men”. It is true “respect has flown out the window” however nowadays I feel this is both ways true- both women and men to each other – the chicken or the egg? Or maybe the root issue began even before this organism even existed 😉 However, Thank You, for exposing the accepted/normal phrases which can so easily slip the lips, to the true answers.
Absolutely agree Ariannekasi! I loved the title, and felt Rod really nailed it calling out that there was a fundamental flaw as the revolution alienated men. I also agree with your statement that there is a lack of respect from both men and women these days, towards each other… Neither men nor women honouring the innate qualities each can bring ( not all of, course, but so many….). It is great to read blogs such as this that can start a discussion on this topic, , and one that can inspire all (thanks Rod!).
Great article thank you Rod. How beautiful and powerful it is when women and men express and relate to each other from the love that we all naturally are….this is a great equaliser and heals on so many levels.
Great article Rod and in amongst the glaring truth of all that you expressed there was fun and humour – and even though my greatest memory of that era was my husband vehemently (that means very very loudly and often) blaming Germaine Greer for all the issues and problems he was now having in his own house-hold and in life in general, I accept that we all had a part to play in the entire scenario and that is where your humour brings to the surface the ridiculousness of the way we women tried to project ourselves to be – incidentally, I was at that time very meek,mild, submissive, and certainly never burned a bra – however, I am learning that love-less ways serve nobody and the power of true Love serves all.
That was so nice to read from a man’s point of view. I’m guessing it would inspire men and women to step up and feel what you have presented Rob as it has me. Thanks.
My initial thoughts were that it was great to to see the page 3 girl taken out of The Sun newspaper. Yet the photos are staying in the online version. While this may have appeared to have been a step forward, those who are responsible (or should I say irresponsible) at The Sun just don’t get it. It appears to be a cynical exercise to increase paid online subscriptions. They simply haven’t connected with what this is really about…respect, decency and love. We still have much (loving) work to do.
I agree Rod and the whole page three thing without the topless women, has become a marketing and publicity toy that is played by the newspaper. As you say nothing has really changed there, in the print version it is simply an equal diversion, that remains devoid of the respect, decency and love that you’ve written about.
Hallelujah The times are a changing. Slowly but surely with the reflection of true love equally expressed to men and women we will begin to feel we are all a one brotherhood.
For a man to treat a woman badly there has to be in him a desire to cause pain this usually stems from emotional trauma. So the mistreatment of women is very much a man’s issue. Women and men need to say no, to abuse of women to allow for the next stage of healing for men and women.
After reading this blog I can feel what an important topic this is to talk about as men and women together, it is so obvious that this can’t come from just the women or just the men, we are all equally responsible.
I have so seen this in action Rod – “Love will open up men to consider their responsibilities in all of this mess and this has made a huge difference for me.” I also see the major responsibility parents hold, to reflect self-respect and honouring of themselves in their relationships and what they will and will not accept, to their sons and daughters. It starts with each one of us respecting ourselves first and then not accepting anything less… I see it when I’m in disregard of myself or putting myself down, how my sons or men around me then treat me. Thank you for calling this out and continuing this conversation!
Rod, you are spot on in what you have written. There is an imbalance and we are all responsible for making the effort to see how we have played a part. You have caused me to reflect on the times when I have kept quiet when it was really an opportunity to speak up. Bringing about change is a collective responsibility and we all have a part to play – not just by ‘doing’ (ie activity) but also by continuing our commitment to just being our truly loving selves.
Rod thank you for exposing the fact that we so often use excuses, rather then truly connecting to the truth.
ALL Women are LOVE. (All MEN are LOVE also 🙂 )
We are ALL made of this Fiery LOVE and as we begin to self-love and self-care, we will in time, watch changes occur throughout the world just by expressing this Sacred part of ourselves every day.
Rod you have highlighted the state of play between men and women but more importantly our mutual responsibility in affecting changes. Thank you for this blog.
An awesome article Rod, and so simply expressed that we are either part of the problem or we can be part of the loving way forward in true harmony.
Such an awesome article Rod! Thank you for being one of the leaders. How refreshing it is to have a man talk so honestly and openly about his contribution to society. We have all, women and men, contributed to the demise of humanity. It’s for all of us to start living more truth.
A truthful and honest sharing. The line that stood out to me was ‘from a foundation of love’. When each of us, men and women, are living that love within us, everything comes from there and the meeting of equals will be lived. The world is changing and we know what it is that precipitates that.
Thanks Rod for your honesty and humour in this blog, as a woman I am equally responsible to call men to account for any inappropriate behaviour. I can feel in the past when I have been belittled by a man and how this has caused me to shutdown and be wary around men. Instead of standing in my power and expressing what I feel, I would get aloof and go into hiding. I no longer play this victim role, and I can feel the true power in me when I express all of the love I am, it can also inspire another to choose a different way.
Really great exposure of how women in their absolutely important activism for liberation and equality left themselves and specifically their bodies behind and how it is women’s and men’s responsibility to bring harmony, love and respect back into our relationships. The whole struggle for women’s rights was done against men and not with men and that is the root problem, we have to start to live together and not against each other.
This is a good summary showing how women were ‘trying’ to be something we are not. We got so caught up in proving we could be ‘equal’ if not better, we forgot who we truly were in the first place. Thank you for writing this.
Rod I liked the way you exposed how even after all the fights for women’s rights, and all the way it has come so far. The competitive battle has only caused separatism and misunderstanding things between the genders and has remained the same in many areas of the world. I have found a massive shift within myself with the understanding that we are all one, all true sons of god and all equal. And the ball busters of this world male or female need more love /understanding and letting in so they can have permission to drop their guard.
I like your last sentence Greg, for there lies the key…through love, understanding and openness.
Thank you Rod. It is so true that women and men have a shared responsibility in addressing and changing the way women are belittled in the world. Till recently I still carried my share of resentment and blame towards men without even being aware of it. I have judged men and am changing this to loving them and letting them in. It is not difficult when I allow myself to see the tenderness in each of them, not difficult at all.
Thank you for saying it how it is Rod.
Hurray for Rod for bringing up this issue, how we both, men and women, have accepted uptil now these unloving patterns of interaction with ourselves and amongst ourselves. Time for a Revolution of Love.
Beautiful expression here Rod. What I have come away with from reading this blog is a pondering on the importance for us, man or woman to work towards feeling the equalness in each other. It is not about one gender being better than the other. For us to celebrate the uniqueness of each gender, to complement each other but to also know that innately we are all the same in our essence and that when we live from our essence it becomes apparent how to be with each other in harmony – male and female.
Isn’t It truly all about love, honour, respect and honest communication. If we choose that first with ourselves, then does the rest not become a natural progression? Love does not discriminate. Thanks Rod for the great blog.
How awesome that was to read Rod! I would have to agree that both parties have done nothing to help the situation. It’s about being aware of what’s really going and driving forward this change with love.
A very thought provoking blog Rod. The media distorts the image of both women and men. Yes it objectifies women, but it also uses sport ‘role models’ to portray men as hard, tough, uncompromising and to hide their true feelings. I have seen this create confusion for young men who as boys felt able to express their tenderness and fragility, but contracted as they grew older in order to ‘fit in’ to societies expectations of what a man is. As women’s roles within society have changed over the years, they are expressing in more male energy and so men have not had the female stillness as a reflection.
As Rod has suggested, men need to support women to change the ideal and beliefs that exist in this area, but men also need to Truly claim what it means to be a man.