the pain and joy of being a woman.
“Ada, hurry and fetch water. Clean the house. Wash the toilet. Do the dishes. And make sure you always wear a smile. Never be ungrateful. Be humble. Ada, always respect your elders. Obey your parents.” Ada do this. Ada do that. Until one day, Ada faints from burnout. Until she grows weary of labor that is never appreciated. Until pain becomes familiar. Until she becomes numb, selfish, and nonchalant. But who will care? The blame will still rest on Ada. “Ada must always do everything she is instructed to do. She must never complain. She must never let a tear fall.” Omo, Ada is tired. Ada needs love that isn’t a paycheck for the work she completes. Ada needs encouragement for trying, not just correction for failing. So that Ada does not grow weary and lean. Dear girl child, you are a superhero. I know that sometimes society sees you as a powerhouse—one that should never run low—but you are human. The responsibilities tied to being a woman—from household chores to c...