Saturday, November 1, 2014

Dutiful Hijas: Dependency, Power, and Guilt

While reading this text I found it interesting how in the Puerto Rican culture the daughter holds an important role. The mothers' look forward to having a daughter, because that means they'll be cared for for the rest of their lives. This is unlike other cultures, where the sons' would usually be the ones that the parents' rely on. With other cultures, I can understand why parents' would rely on their sons; in general, sons would be described to be strong, responsible, hard-working, and reliant. Thus, it makes sense for families to celebrate the birth of a son. However, to celebrate the birth of a daughter is different, and Puerto Rican mothers depend on the birth of a girl. Furthermore, these daughters' grow up with the idea of caring for their mothers' till their death implemented into their minds. This is unfair as it causes stress on the daughters' later on in life; they get grief from their family members for leaving their mothers'. Moreover, the daughters' must always think twice about their actions and decisions because they aren't just thinking for themselves, but they're also responsible for thinking of their mothers' as well. I understand that you should not forget about your mother, as she is the one who brought you into this world, cared for you, and loved you unconditionally. However, it should be okay for the daughter to live, to explore, and be her own individual. Since she grew up with this idea circulating her, the mother should trust that her daughter will not abandon her.


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