Challenging Tradition: A Daughter's Journey to Empowering Women Anonymous

As the plates clicked and voices grew louder, our heated debate overshadowed the familial bond that had always brought us closer at the dinner table. Once again, my mother and I found ourselves entangled in a recurring discussion regarding gender roles. Across the table sat my mother, steadfastly convinced that a woman's happiness and fulfillment were intrinsically tied to marriage. In sharp contrast, I strongly believe that marriage curtails women's aspirations and signifies a loss of freedom. As the evening progressed, our initial discussion escalated into a full-blown debate. Words were exchanged with increasing tension and emotions ran high.

In her deliberate manner, she emphasized ‘Having a reliable partner and early marriage are beneficial. I married your dad at the age of 25 and everything is going well. Do you want to overcome life's challenges all by yourself?’. Her words, though measured, egged on me.

‘Seriously?!’ I exclaimed, my hands gesturing emphatically to extenuate my point. ‘Many women end up sacrificing their careers to prioritize starting a family and raising children. That isn't genuine happiness, Mom.’

I probably converse with my mom more than I do with the rest of my family combined. Our relationship is...