So I was a little struggling with a bag full of art supplies and about 3 bags of food...and I suddenly hear this "do you need a hand?" from some cute random male.
HUH? Is my first thought- this doesn't happen in Sydney City!!!
So immediately, cynical suspicion kicks in and I politely decline the offer (cos really I didn't really need any help...I've managed in more dire situations...)
Later on I'm trying to get through the door to my building and I hear an offer of help again...this time it's a random lady neighbour...I didn't hesitate to accept at all especially cos this time I felt I actually needed it ;)...well we weren't going to get through the door with all my bags blocking the entry anyhow is how I saw it...
I was reflecting on these two episodes and wondering whether there was in any way double standard involved...ie that I can so easily and willingly accept help from a lady but not a man...I have to admit it's probably got a lot to do with Ego...The Independent female who is not quite feminist but definitely very capable was definitely unwilling to accept help from a MAN...cos God forbid it conveys the idea that "women Need men(!)" And besides,...living in the city you tend to come armed with a healthy dose of cynicism- when did favours ever come for free?!
In any case the standard is that nobody offers to help carry grocery bags unless you're an elderly little old lady and even if I do feel like one at times, I'm still far from one...
Eh, I hate that city dwelling has made me so cynical that people might just be plain...*nice*!
From this episode which is exactly how most females I know would have reacted makes me conclude: the Independent Female Ego is definitely very alive and well!!! LOL
THE GO-BETWEENS/The Clarke Sisters(Live)
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OH. MY. GOD. WHERE...HAVE I BEEEEEEEEEEEEEN??!! Somehow in the last few
years a whole heap of The Go-Betweens stuff has finally emerged on Youtube.
Fanta...
10 years ago
4 comments:
It could be ego, it could be (smartly) suspicion of a stranger, gut instinct, whatever. I would also be more likely to receive help from another woman, just because I would feel that they are more sincere and not doing it out of an ulterior motive. I guess that is a little bit of a sad reflection but unfortunately women have to have their wits about them at all times. But if he was cute...
;)
I agree with Shannanigans on this one 100%. Wish I could be more original, but...
Oh, below is the link to the post about my book...let me know what you think. I have taken the last week off from writing and really need to get back on the "stick." But the kiddies are home on break for a week which means no "me" time...(hence the need to be like a monkey).
http://thezeninyou.wordpress.com/2009/01/28/and-so-the-journey-begins/
Just came your blog's way coz we liked the same Almodovar movies .... :)
Nice blog, liked it v much.
Sometimes it would be nice to turn back the clock to the "good old days", when an offer of help from a stranger was not thought of as suspicious.
Cheers
Peggy
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