Leslie Dulfo
- The Portrayal of Sisa - March 13, 2025
- Are you an imposter? - February 21, 2025
- Humor is a Friend - January 30, 2025
It’s women’s month, so I say “Great thanks to the people who have empowered fellow women, including my mom.” Indeed, there are many things to sacrifice for women even when it comes to mental health. I often define this sacrifice by stay home moms who think of breakfast, lunch and dinner time. They get worried about what’s next for the home viand. They typically cook for the family, do chores and all but what if the problem is getting food on the table?
Remember the law on Violence Against Women and their Children? The right doesn’t end for women, it continues. Even rape cases were recorded lately regarding women with intellectual disability. It takes a lot of miss and remiss for justice to be upheld.
Come to think of it, the roles we play as women, whether abled or differently abled, allows us to express our feelings. We have careers, family and love life to take care of depending on priorities and opportunities.
As I look at the lady justice at the Justice Hall, I’m thinking why women are portrayed that way. Even the earth is portrayed as Mother Earth. Also, why were typhoons formerly all named women?
Perhaps, the earliest and most astute characterization of a woman’s mental health by far is that of Sisa in Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo. The loss of her kids affected her and formed (according to my assessment based on experience) a psychosis of some sort. It shows how important children are to a woman, a mom and a responsible part of the society.
In truth, no one can say that there were no mental health talks by women and for women back then because even Rizal’s book confirmed it. But stereotypes have still been there until this moment. Stigma has continued with people casting aside realities that existed.
This women’s month, we are to remember as women to take care of our mental health as mom’s, daughter’s, tita’s, mother-in-law’s, workmates and friends. That we are as important as human beings.That our body and mental state must be equally healthy. That we are to set our own boundaries. That we all need to do self-care.
Butterfly hugs to everyone and may we continue to empower each other – mentally and in all aspects. Happy Women’s Month!