“Feminism: the advocacy of women’s rights on the grounds of political, social, and economic equality to men.” Definition from dictionary.com.

Now we’re clear on what feminism is, right?

Before I invoke the wrath of Rush Limbaugh, here’s what feminism isn’t: it’s not a question of either gender “un-sexing” themselves to be more like the other. Also, it has absolutely nothing to do with Nazism. There are, of course, extremists in every single walk of life. But a movement should not be judged and disregarded based on the extremists.

I am raising my children to be feminists. No, this is not because I’m a woman. It is because I am a human – a human who believes that we, as a species, should recognize that gender, color, faith or ANYTHING AT ALL do not make some people superior or inferior to others.

I raise my daughter to be a feminist, and my son as well. Feminism is not limited to one gender, either. What does it mean to raise feminists? I am raising them to respect the rights of those who may not be exactly like them. I am raising them to understand that everyone deserves to live their lives in peace, without harassment or bullying. I am teaching them that a choice of clothing doesn’t mean someone deserves hollers, catcalls, or rude comments.

Raising feminists means raising children who see the external differences among people, and treat them with kindness and dignity anyway. Perhaps this is an oversimplification to many people, but it’s a simple lesson:

We are all beautiful souls, in our myriad ways. See the beauty in others, and in yourself. This is a lesson I want my children to internalize. This is the lesson I wish all children could internalize.

No matter what your gender, or color, or sexual orientation, you are beautiful. You have worth. You deserve to be treated as an individual of worth.

My two cents for today. Blessings to you all…