Trust and the Liberated Woman

Till just a few days back, I never realized fully what the phrase "liberated woman" meant. It was often used for the woman who went off the beaten track, and cut her hair short, burnt her bra, or spoke on controversial issues. What that has to do with "liberation", I never understood. And then, and few days back, it hit me.

In the US, I had a maid who vacuumed and cleaned, and a nanny who took care of the kids after school. I trusted them completely. They had keys to my house, and freedom to do their job without having to consult with me every step of the way.

In India, I am constantly told not to trust anyone. Don't leave your phone/purse at your desk. Don't just open the door. Stay in the master bedroom when the maid is cleaning. Watch the cook. Don't ask the driver to pick up the kids. Don't even trust the watchman as he has the most information to commit a crime. People live in constant fear of rape, burglary, pedophilia, and petty crime. As a result, I have two cleaners, one live-in nanny, two drivers, and am in the process of hiring a cook - but don't have a single moment of peace.

It finally struck me that the "liberated woman" is one who trusts. She is one who will go on a car ride with a male friend. She is one who will stay alone at home at night and not be scared. She is one who trusts others, and thus dares to do more with her life. She is one who values her life too much to live it any other way.

She is liberated, not from oppression, but from the fear of oppression.