“I do not wish women to have power over men; but over themselves.” ~ Mary Wollstonecraft
I adore this particular quote because it so succinctly states exactly what it is that Feminists, Equal Rights Advocates, and so many others desire – that each and every person has power over themselves. Not over any one else; just over themselves.
Whether that be the power to vote, to choose for their bodies what they feel is best, to choose their spouse, their sexuality, their faith, their gender orientation, etc. To have control over the one thing we, each of us, as human beings has – OURSELVES.
Mary Wollstonecraft (not to be confused with her equally fascinating daughter Mary Wollstonecraft Shelly) was an advocate for not just women’s rights, but human rights and in a time (the later 1700’s!) when it was as radical as personal hygiene (seriously!).
With this beautifully simple, yet extraordinarily exquisite statement She struck a universal chord that reverberates every bit as strong today as it did then. “I do not wish women (or anyone) to have power over man (or another); but over themselves.”.
It’s the literary version of the ripple effect and it’s one I live by and do my best to continue on for a better now and an even greater tomorrow for everyone.
Namaste ~ Ella
~ Affirmation Mondays are positive words of wisdom, insight and joy to add a bit of cheer to the start of your week and any day you need a bit of a pick-me-up! For even more inspiration please check out my Affirmation Mondays Pinterest Board and my Quote-spirational Board!
Lawhimsy 