Can women get along with each other? Whether it’s in the workplace, in friendship, or in church, we’re often told that women are incapable of working well with each other. Is there something to this generalization or is it more of a self-fulfilling prophecy?
We talk about how internalized sexism creates conflict in female relationships by undervaluing constructions of femininity–and how our emphasis on independence as a value actually harms people of all genders, especially as we age.
Within our faith communities, what can we learn from the story of survival and resistance found in the Book of Ruth? We talk about this model for friendship, no matter your gender expression or identity.
What We’re Reading
Life’s Work: A Moral Argument for Choice by Dr. Willie Parker is part autobiography, part theological-framework for how Dr. Parker, an ob/gyn, realized that he was called to provide compassionate abortion care as part of his Christian faith, not in spite of it. Follow Dr. Parker on Facebook and Twitter.
Kindreds of the Moment
Since 1969 students from Seton Keough Catholic School in Baltimore, Maryland have been investigating the murder of their beloved teacher Sister Cathy Cesnik. These fierce women have uncovered layers of cover-ups, including rampant sexual abuse perpetrated by priests at the school, in their effort to bring justice for Sister Cathy’s family. You can watch the docuseries The Keepers on Netflix to learn more about the unsolved murder and follow along with their progress on their public Facebook group.
Resources
- Check out the book All the Single Ladies by Rebecca Traister.
- Reflect on the artist He Qi’s depiction of Ruth and Naomi as they journey together towards survival.
- If you need a pick-me-up, watch Lily Tomlin and Jane Fonda talk about their lifelong friendship.