Watched “Made in Dagenham last night.. it’s about the Ford machinists strike in 1968, which led to legislation being passed in the U.K. for equal pay for women. Good movie – go and watch it. 🙂
This clip made me think. It’s not something that I’ve really verbalised, but it’s something that I’ve come across too many times – men who seem to think that the fact they don’t booze, whore and beat their wives and kids means that those wives/kids should be eternally grateful – and show that gratitude somehow. Sometimes it’s a subtle, possibly not even recognised way of thinking. Sometimes it’s almost a threat – keep in line, woman, or I’ll start doing all those things (and it’ll be YOUR fault)
I have a hubby who is a good man. He does none of those things, and would never think of doing so. Yes – I am thankful. But that is not based on his “sainthood”, or that he’s somehow restraining himself from some sort of more “normal” male response. That’s because I know, and have seen, what some of the alternatives can be.
It’s like the clip above says. Having a partner who treats you like an equal human being, with respect and love, is a right. Not a privilege.
And that’s as it should be.
1000 Fields of Roses 
It’s amazing that a lot of women would look at their lives and say to themselves “at least he doesn’t beat me” as though that’s a reason to contend with other sorts of unhappiness. I suppose many years ago, this would be an acceptable way of thinking since it was much more common and accepted for a husband to be physically abusive. These days, however, a woman shouldn’t feel that this is a settlement or trade of or what could be true happiness.
I couldn’t agree more. Saw that film a while ago, thought it was brilliant.
Yes, I was surprised at how much I enjoyed the film…
and, unfortunately, the incidence of women staying in an abusive relationship, and giving excuses of whatever sort, is still way too high.. but then, anything above zero is too high..
The normal male behaviour is to protect, honour, cherish, and support. As normal males grow up into what we know as manhood, however, those values are frequently corrupted.
Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever becomes humble like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. – Matt 18:3-4