On my way to work the other day, I heard a compelling argument over the radio about why so many girls prefer to be friends with guys over other girls. The reasons ranged from girls being too catty to not being able to relate to the emotionally draining conversations, that seem to be the only things our stereotypical estrogen filled bodies are capable of producing. Having my fair share of friends of either sex, I can testify that some of these things are true. However, the pros of female friendships are exceedingly greater than any cons you can come up with:
- Not all women are b*tches. Women have a bad rap as being catty and nasty to each other. Unfortunately, you’ll be able to find examples of this almost anywhere you look. Still, I think this is like most groups in life—the loudest, most annoying participants often get heard, but this doesn’t make them the majority or the most important. Without a shadow of a doubt, I know that there are women who don’t judge each other harshly, who appreciate and lift up other ladies instead of dragging them down, and who possess the sort of self-acceptance that allows them to seek out other successful women; I know this because I am one. Believe what you want, but there are plenty of women out there who adore others of their sex—and who have no desire to tear them to bits.
- Sharing. No, I’m not only referring to sharing clothing or make-up (although, truth be told, that’s great too). The stereotype that women are better communicators is not necessarily spot-on, but I really do think there is truth to the notion that women share more—and bare more—in our relationships than many of our male counterparts; and, speaking from personal experience, sharing words, thoughts and affection with my girls is enriching to my life on more levels then I can name.
- Only another woman can understand.There are a plethora of life occurrences that only another female will get. Don’t get me wrong, a good man will try (thanks, honey), but no matter how much effort he puts in, he cannot understand everything you go through. You know who can? Your girlfriends.
So remember,
For every dramatic, catty frenemy out there, there is a woman who will share in your woes of menstrual cramps and boy problems. Here’s to them and here’s to celebrating our friendships instead of tearing our own sex down.