Learning life lessons from our mothers is a never-ending process. While we may not agree with some of their beliefs because things change for us, some other teachings always stay relevant and useful. One time I was talking to a friend and she told me how her mother taught her to never believe a man completely unless he has proven himself worthy. This conversation made me realize how our mothers unknowingly gave us feminist lessons and taught us to be fiercely ourselves.
We talked to 10 women and asked them to share that one feminist lesson that they have learnt from their mothers. They revealed the learnings that they swear by. Read on below.
1. “My mother taught me to speak up whenever I felt uncomfortable because as women, we have a lot to suffer from.” – Manya Ailawadi
2. “My parents aren’t divorced but they live separately. My mom always stressed being financially independent rather than waiting for a man to fend for me.” – Diya Banerji
3. “I was 10 when my late mother told me to never shy away from taking space and expressing all my needs and wants. She said that there is no prize for being quiet. I miss her now” – Simran
4. “My mom is a single parent with three girls. After her divorce, she taught us sisters to stick together and have our backs because none of her brothers helped her during her difficult phase.” – Shruti Agiwal
5. “I am about to marry my boyfriend and my mother told me to marry him only if I am ready to spend my entire life with him and not because he planned an elaborate proposal.” – Rashmi
6. “You don’t have to fight for everyone. Fight your own battles first.” – Shreya Basu
7. “An uncle was a hugger and I hated (and still hate) hugging. I was 16 when I told my mother how uncomfortable it made me feel. She told me to always stand up for something that I don’t find right even if it’s family.” – Vaishali
8. “Always look out for other women. Strangers, family, or enemy.” – Ardhya Lakra
9. “If a man asks you to quit your job, you leave that man.” – Ritu K
10. “Never let a man speak for you.” – Aditi Ghosh
All of these women agreed that these lessons made them strong and empowered.
