Bringing Women to the Table

If you haven’t taken in the latest season of The Crown yet … make sure you stick around for the episode where Prince Phillip ponders his purpose --- because it has real relevance in today’s world.   He describes himself as crankier than ever --- sparked by, get this, the 1969 landing of American men on the moon.  He envisions them as heroes who have accomplished something so far greater than themselves.  As he gazes longingly at the moon he wonders what he would have accomplished if he hadn’t married who he did.   How did that limit his potential, and stop him from the exploration and adventures he might otherwise have found had he not wed the queen of England.   

While that may sound like the silly pondering of a rich pampered man --- here’s what I took from it in a world where marriages or partnerships today may well mean an uber- accomplished woman, with the man standing by her side.  That defies old traditions  -- with women CEO’s, entrepreneurs, politicians, doctors, TV newscasters, and yes, female astronauts.   Women are truly and finally taking their places at the table.  

But along with that comes compromises to ensure that men don’t feel emasculated, compromises I’m not so sure women should have to make.     I know how difficult that is.   When someone refers to them as “mr. someone” versus their own name.  Or they see a smaller paycheck.  Or they know they’re invited only because of their wife or partner, as she gets promoted and awarded.    When the resentment builds, arguments ensue.  And, yes, it can lead to divorce.  

Yet it’s the situation women have been in since time eternal, standing by their man, quietly and diligently.  I’d like to hope that we can be truly equal in partnerships – that instead of resentment there’s pride.  Instead of fear, love.  No woman is doing what’s she’s doing to provoke their partner -- she’s doing it because she can.  Because she too has tremendous potential, brains, talent and resourcefulness.   Can we please let her thrive, and relish in it?   And be the support she needs instead of a cranky one-time prince charming?