A few hours after the birth of my second daughter, an aunty called and said, “Next time you’ll have a son”. I don’t exactly remember what I said to her but I think it was something along the lines of us being very happy with what Allah had given us. I do remember that I was annoyed. Annoyed at how our communities still make such comments on the birth of girls. Annoyed at how people still haven’t risen above the ignorance of olden days. My husband and I were elated at being parents of two wonderful girls. We understood that it was a blessing like no other. Having daughters has never made us feel like we’re missing out on something. That they’re not enough. We celebrate them, and they are our pride.
The world is filled with people who pull us down, who hold us back, who tell us in some way or the other, that being a woman means not being enough. But I pray my daughters are only ever surrounded by the ones who celebrate them, lift them up, and empower them.
May we raise our girls to be strong and resilient, to be confident and fearless, to achieve great heights, and to overcome anything. May they grow up to believe that being a woman means they are capable of anything and everything.
I was raised by a strong woman, and I pray I raise my girls the same way.
Maa shaa allah this is what I told when I was asked to fulfil my family by giving birth to a boy baby. I should plan for a baby when we are ready but not for someone who wants my family to be complete. Thanks for writing this