What post or response stuck with you in AskWomen? [NSFW]

I think it's awesome to have a more traditional relationship if that's what makes everyone involved in the relationship feel happy and fulfilled. There's absolutely nothing wrong with that feeling natural and right for you.

What is problematic is when people forget that not all women share those feelings. Based on my own personal experiences, I would venture to guess that most of the women I know are more like you than they are like me. And that's fine; we're all different and that should be celebrated! Part of my weird feelings about the OP's comment stem from the fact that for many years I felt like there was something wrong with me because I'm not submissive, don't desire an "alpha male", and am not gushy about men. My parents have a relationship very much like how you designed yours and that was always presented me as This Is the Right Way to Do Things. Being a nonsubmissive, not entirely straight, not very traditional person, this messed with my head in many ways, and it's only recently that I've realized that being the way I am is completely okay.

It's not just me who has had that experience; the traits and preferences that you describe tend to get pushed forward as some kind of feminine ideal in many circles. I just feel like that mindset can be super damaging because it's not inclusive and doesn't allow for women who don't agree to feel as accepted and valid as those who do.

As far as cooking, cleaning, doing special favors for your spouse.... idk, I just think those are great things that we should all do for those we love. Isn't wanting someone to be happy a natural part of loving them? I'm not trying to discredit your experiences and views; if those things are something that you view as a way to honor and/or please your spouse in a more traditional hetero relationship then more power to you! I've just never really understood how going out of you way to do something thoughtful for a loved one is somehow submissive.

/r/AskWomen Thread Parent