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Men’s work…women’s work.
If you were raised old-school, like I was, you’ll know what I’m talking about. Certain tasks have been deemed by society as either male or female roles.
Relax. This isn’t about sexism or gender equality, but merely a sweeping generalization to demonstrate a point.
Many men don’t bother learning how to cook or sew, and many women don’t know how to use or repair small appliances. “Learned ignorance” is what I’ve heard it called.
Throughout the ages, men have been the aggressors—the handymen. Men take matters into their own hands. And when women need something done, we know we have the option of batting our lashes so a man will step up and take care of business. I envy men’s resourcefulness. Let’s face it. Whether they’re good in the kitchen or not, you’d be hard-pressed to find a man who isn’t masterful at pounding the last of the ketchup out of the bottle. But when we can’t get the lid off of a jar, women look around for a man before we even make a second attempt. It’s just second nature for men to change their own oil. They’re more than eager to snake out the plumbing. Women, on the other hand, think of these as dirty jobs best done by a man.
As a single woman, I’ve long since learned to revel in my freedom. But I must admit, I get a little frustrated on occasion. Some time ago, when my multi-pressure shower massager got stuck on a focused pulse setting, I wished I’d had a man around to fix it for me. I tried everything to switch it back to the regular shower setting. I took it apart, chased the slippery hose as it flailed around the bathroom, and tinkered around with it to no avail. After several vigorous showers, however, I’ve come to enjoy my showerhead even more the way it is. What started out as a source of frustration has turned into a means of relieving tension.
But not all situations take on a positive spin so easily. So I decided to take matters into my own hands and went shopping for the perfect ladies’ multi-tool. Now I can drill, buff, or screw anything that needs attention. And I have to tell you, there’s a certain satisfaction in knowing I can get any job done as well as a man.
Does my inability to hook up my own stereo system mean that I can’t make beautiful music without a man?
Also, I can’t help wondering: Now that I have my own power tool, do I still need a man?
As far as conversations and companionship goes, I have plenty of male friends—most of whom have gladly offered their services if I should ever need a helping hand. As kind as their offers are, I don’t want to become dependant or lose sight of the fact that I can take care of myself.
I still don’t know how to rewire my stereo, but I’m proud to say that I am the master of my domain.
Have a question, a thought, or a story to share (anonymity guaranteed)? Email Christine at single@keynotebooks.com
