Recently in Image & Identity Category

Instead of teaching the children the value of inner beauty, some parents offered their little ones up for the competitive and profitable judgment of their outer beauty. The girls lined up on stage in what looked like a modern-day auction house. They learned to dance and stand pretty for others' gaze. They were stripped of their natural beauty as they appeared wearing heavy make up and costumes, strutting their stuff.

I felt sad watching this video of young girls playing out others' fantasies. They were being exploited while I watched on.

Through the years, the word girl has been hijacked and taken on negative connotation. It's been used to describe females in a disparaging way. It's time for females to reclaim the word girl. I've done my part. I say "Kathy is a girl," meaning Kathy is a female. That's how I define girl. By calling myself a girl, I am not saying I am "girlie." The National Post provides a history of the evolution of the word, "girl." Don't be afraid or ashamed to be identified as one. We should not allow others to define us. I am a girl and I am proud. Let's show some pride. Read more.

This article makes the bold statement that all women can be divided into nine types. What type best describes you? Are you a woman with a difficult fate, cheering smiley face. Or are you Ms. Shyness, philosopher on the couch, artist, courtesan, buffalo woman. Then again, you might just be too far out there or a mere poet's dream. Read more.