It is interesting that many of us have responded (often negatively) to the
concept of the feminine being somehow closer to nature. While I do not
necessarily agree with this, nor do I believe that it is right to assume that
the most wonderful thing a woman can do (hence, her most vital function to the
world) is to have a child, I do not find it offensive either. It seems that we
are quick to reject the important function of the creation of life, whether the
"birther" be a woman, an animal, a plant, or Mother Earth. An understanding of
what has been traditionally called "feminine" and an acceptance of the feminine
as a good thing is, IMO, important for BOTH men and women. (while at the same
time not rejecting that which is "male" either)
Perhaps some of us consider this ecofeminism in its spiritual form
(such as myself). We can look back to the Ancient Greeks cult of Demeter which
was a women's only ritual which celebrated the seasons, the goddess, and the
beauty of the emergence of life; and to other religions which connect the life
process to women to spirituality. Are they ecofeminists? I say yes. And
while many of these cultures were obviously patriarchal and often repressive
toward women, the "feminine" aspects of society were not necessarily always a
negative thing.
I don't believe we should focus on the differences (whether biological or
socially constructed) between men and women. However, we must acknowledge
their presence, and learn to accept both the "male" and the "female" sides of
each person.
I'm sorry, I think I lost my train of thought about five lines ago.
Forgot what I was talking about :)
Tj.
