What equality really means?

 

Going by the dictionary meaning, equality refers to ‘the state of being equal, especially in status, rights or opportunities.’ But, does this hold meaning in reality?

Men and women, are different at the basic fundamental level itself. Biologically they have different roles to play, and so in many circumstances of life. My pondering brings me down to questions such that when two entities are different at the basic fundamental level, then how on earth can they be equal? More so, what is this ever-increasing need for being equal? And lastly does equality mean to be equal at each and every juncture?

 

When we talk about equality, the first word which I recall is empowered. Empowering an individual is a key to provide them with equal opportunities. Empower is a word which means making someone stronger and more confident especially in controlling their life and claiming their rights. Now, what is that magical formula to empower someone. In my opinion, the first thing is ensuring they have the right to choose. And believe me when I say it not only in letter but in spirit too. Right to choose beginning from the simplest to most important and difficult decisions of a person’s life is the simplest way of empowering an individual.

 

Coming back to the question of the need of being equal, I feel we humans have a tendency of complicating things which in reality are very simple. In most situations, we naturally become upset when we are told we can’t or shouldn’t do something. In this case, if I take an example of women since years from every nook and corner of the world have been constantly told of what they can and can’t do, or should or shouldn’t do, to a point where most of their actions have become a way to prove something or the other to someone or the other. Well, my example may point towards women, but it holds equally perfect in context of any individual irrespective of their sex, who find themselves vulnerable in a way they find every action of theirs is a way to prove something.

 

Yes, equality in certain spheres is very much necessary. Like, if an individual is doing certain amount of work as his/her colleague, then he/she should be paid the same, or if someone wants to study something, every individual again irrespective of their sex or any other attribute should be equal in pursuing it. But that doesn’t mean anyone should use ‘equality’ as a weapon to get out of anything and everything, justified or unjustified. Often in the debates and fights of being equal, we argue that we all want to be the same. But, I think rather, we all should fight for being complimentary to each other. Because no one is going to have all perfect attributes for living, and every single one of us need people who can compliment us with what we don’t have.

 

Having said that, I would want to add that empowering is something which cannot be given to someone externally, rather it should be discovered within. Yes, external push is an added advantage but primarily it has to come from a spark within. And the real meaning of equality for me is to rethink every aspect every dimension from home, workplace, life-style to life-cycle in a society. A place which opens the possibility for all to have a fulfilling, meaningful and purposeful life, where all have the right to decide and choose the meaning and purpose of their life.

 

-THEMOONLIGHTREVERIE