Beauteous Gals
Of course, it’s not up to me, but if I let that stand in my way, well, pshaw, what would be the point of speaking up. This particular rant is about how Muslim women cover themselves up; not all of them of course. I’m not speaking to the difference between just a scarf over the heads versus the head-to-toe business, but rather where this wear is practiced. In Europe, a number of societies have revolted against the separation that this perpetuates. They’ve got a lot to deal with over there, what with 15 million Muslims having relocated to The Continent.
I don’t know whether it will be such an issue in our country. We’re less tolerant, if you want to look at it that way, or perhaps it is that we are more insistent on openness. I seem to remember a case in Florida where a woman didn’t want to reveal herself for her driver’s license photo. I think the ACLU backed her up. The courts didn’t, and good for them.
First of all, while we celebrate freedom of religion there are limits to religious practices. You can’t murder people you don’t like or torture your children in the name of religion, at least not in our country. Usually.
Second, the notion behind the cover-up custom is that men don’t want to be tempted. I suppose its easier not to be tempted by someone who is tented like a Terminix house. But what about the responsibility that men have to restrain themselves and not attack every cute ankle?
Third, let’s flip that over, so to speak. The beauty of women has been celebrated since there were women. Their pulchritude has produced some of the greatest art in the history of our civilization. It has launched thousands of ships, and millions of bar room brawls.
Finally, this isn’t about religion. We need more community and less separatism. Women should display themselves and men should behave themselves. We should all be able to look into the windows of each other’s soul.
©2010 SetonnoteS
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