“It is literally impossible to be a woman.”
When I heard America Ferrera’s character, Gloria, say this in the new Barbie movie, I was instantly caught off guard.
No. I haven’t seen the Barbie movie. But as I saw this sad scene on a social media reel, I realized the movie is more than meets the eye.
“Barbie” highlights the physical and psychological challenges that women encounter in today’s culture. Whether it’s being taught to be thankful while trying to find a way to change the system that is inherently against us, or being attractive and trim for men, women are expected to fit into a mold that is made for them.
Women are expected to fight for change, but if they fight too hard, they’re bossy. If they fail, they’re useless. If something is out of line, it’s automatically their fault.
The movie highlights how society’s expectations of women are contradictory, and how it can be challenging to stay true to oneself while trying to fit into the mold.
It’s becoming more obvious that some women, like myself, feel trapped and left behind in a society that stubbornly promotes growth and progress. How can one accept womanhood when every move we make is judged and scrutinized?
As Gloria described it, “It’s too hard, it’s too contradictory, and nobody gives you a medal or says thank you.”
We have to start doing better.
With Halloween inching closer and the dilemma of choosing the perfect costume arises, I can’t help but wonder who I should dress up as. The options are endless, but I usually end up choosing costumes that are far from who I really am. In the past, I’ve always picked outfits that are quite different from my authentic self, whether I’m dressed up as a serious military guard, a mysterious dark angel, or a beloved Disney princess.
Although a costume doesn’t define how I feel about myself, my mindset has a significant impact on my self-confidence. In the past, I wasn’t comfortable with who I was, but this year, things are different. I’m determined to celebrate my authenticity and embrace my abilities as a woman wholeheartedly.
I will do so by confidently expressing my unique qualities, beliefs, and perspectives, while pursuing my goals without limitations, advocating for gender equality, and inspiring others with my empowerment. This year, I’m determined not to allow a costume to prompt self-doubt or question my self-worth.
With Halloween around the corner, we can learn a valuable lesson from the Barbie movie. Let’s be courageous and embrace our true selves, celebrate the beauty and strength of our womanhood, and send a powerful message to the world: it’s not only possible to be a woman, but to be an unapologetically authentic and empowered one.
