Post-earthquake women
Post-earthquake women
Published: 09:46 am Jun 24, 2015
Did you feel the recent aftershocks? It has become a popular way of breaking ice these days. Since morning till late at night people are busy talking, elaborating and analyzing earthquakes and aftershocks. Where do women do at this time? They are busy in their domestic chores. They either do not get time or do not like to share their fear and sense of insecurity. Perhaps their voice is not heard like that of men. But one thing is sure. The earthquake of April 25 and its frequent aftershocks have changed the Victorian definition of women—that they are supposed to be fragile, dependent and submissive. Now time has changed and the earthquakes have changed the condition of women, too. Nowadays, women have turned strong, independent and brave. New challenges have made women more responsible towards her family and their responsibilities. Housewives have become creative, too. They have learnt to minimize household expenses. Interestingly, they are more creative as their house has turned into a tent! A small tent accommodates the entire family. In spite of the loss of family members and property, they are performing their regular duties. They are struggling for basic needs like scarcity of water, low budget and limited space. They even don’t have time to think of their wellbeing and emotions but are still determined in the hope of better days. Not only housewives, but single mothers who have responsibilities of both the father and the mother, have changed a lot. They have turned more responsible and are aware of possible disasters. They have taught their children to be calm and hopeful. Although they do not have anyone with which to share the burden of family responsibilities, they are more confident about future plans. In fact, they are compelled to do it. Post-war women might face similar condition to that faced by post-earthquake women. Next, women whose men are abroad have changed a lot. They seem economically and emotionally stronger. Perhaps hope of financial support makes them strong. They may be receiving money from their spouse or not. This silver lining of hope is making them more caring. Children are safe and sound in their arms. Lastly, working mothers are the strongest among all. In fact, they do not even get time to be afraid. They are busy and look calm and confident. They believe if they are scared and disturbed who else would look after all the errands of home and office. Hope the aftermath of the disasters will bring new life to women. This may change the stereotyped definition of traditional women. Soon women can glorify motherhood and sisterhood.