Amir, you raise some insightful points about gals in general but also make some incorrect assumptions. You're right to say that gals are much more inclined to think with their hearts instead of their brains at times and that gals are more caring, nurturing and trusting. That said, I have to tell you...I dress modestly (by western standards). I have no male friends. I am SO blessed to be able to stay home with my little ones and have no interest in continuing my (very successful) career. ok? The thing is... I'm a gori born and raised...and as you may be aware, in the US, there is no separation of sexes. I grew up going to school, being friends with, hanging out with persons of the opposite gender.
The thing here is how we raise our children. In the west, ALL children are taught to respect others. As they are in the east...but then again, in the east I think its somewhat ingrained that if a gal isnt covered head-to-toe in a tent then she must be "loose". You have NO idea how that limits relations between the genders! And causes so much misunderstanding.
I respect Hijaab and Hijaabans for sure. Who I do NOT respect are men (and even women) who think non-hijaabans are trashy. Thats SO far from the truth.
*Thank you Mama of 3!!!!!! :) * I was going to bring up some of your points, but I didn't have the energy at the time, lol.
It does have a lot to do with how parents bring up children. I know some girls living in the most conservative cities of Pakistan who are four steps ahead of me.....whose been brought up in the West.
I agree with the last point you have made as well. Hijab is not the only factor that determines a person's character or level of piety. I've seen hijabans who have little regard for their hijab. I've seen a couple of hijabans who cover their hair but at the same time wear sleeveless. It's the oddest sight. The strangest thing I ever saw was a woman wearing a hijab AND a sleeveless/partially backless strappy gown.............to EID PRAYER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I've even seen a few Hijabans who are not only more flirtatious but mingle more freely with the opposite gender than some of their non-hijaban counterparts.
I've seen some hijabans cross the line with the opposite gender. What i'm trying to say is that hijab is not the ONLY factor that determines a girl's piety or level of modesty. A girl can wear hijab and cover her body......but she ALSO has to rely upon her conscience, intellect, and will-power when it comes to making decisions regarding the opposite sex and her modesty/reputation.
A hijab lends protection...........but a girl can't solely depend upon hijab to fight her own temptations or make decisions. Intellect is also required.
I want to clarify here that I am not mocking hijab. I have a great deal of respect for the hijab.......and even more so when it is implemented respectfully and not just confined to the hair but also to the rest of the body. It takes courage to wear hijab.
Also, I believe that a woman's role is not just confined to "staying at home and doing housework". Islam allows women the option to work. And some women might even be the sole breadwinners in their famililes and in order to put food on the table......that have little choice but to work. They can't lock themselves at home and let the family starve or the bills go unpaid because the weaker sex can't control themselves.
A woman **CAN **work, dress, and conduct herself in a manner in accordance with the teachings of Islam.