<<Why is it that women in this country are so
afraid of sexual subjects? My understanding is that women in Europe and
other parts of the world are much more understanding and liberal when it
comes to sexuality issues. >>
I think that it's because of our country's culture, dating back to the
Puritans in the 1600s! Most organized religions promote this as a taboo
subject, too. We are a very uptight, rigid, constipated society when it comes
to the subject of sex. Look at how much trouble health educators have in
teaching about HIV/AIDS, for heaven's sake! Many people have trouble just
getting the words "condom" or "sex" out of their mouths; it's like the words
are coated in chalk.
Women historically have been considered second class citizens, not just in
this country but in many others as well. They've been seen as pieces of
property, and they've had their voices and choices ripped from them
throughout the ages. They've been raped and violated even within a marriage
relationship. Domestic violence is still a major concern in most communities
throughout this country. It often takes life-threatening beatings before the
court will intervene to protect the woman. Furthermore, if a woman is raped
by a stranger or even her date, people are quick to judge that perhaps in
some way she asked for it by her dress or behavior; whereas, the perpetrator
does not have to go through this same kind of grilling. What I'm trying to
point out here is that there is such a double standard in this country as far
as sex is concerned, and by and large, women usually have gotten the raw
deal. Women are taught well by society that they have to be extremely
careful.
I really hear what you're saying, Dan and Jeff, in your posts. I know what
it's like to have someone of the opposite sex look at me as a non-sexual
being because of my trach or because of my scoliosis. When I was in college,
I remember how humiliated I was when I reached out to a fellow that I had an
enormous crush on, and he rejected my efforts. Not only does it hurt, but
it's also infuriating. I can also relate to the position that your female
health care workers are in; I don't find their behavior surprising at all. If
I were in their shoes, I would probably make the same choice even if I liked
and admired you a whole lot.
Carol