I'll admit, my relationship with my mother is anything but simple. Regardless of my numerous attempts in trying to live up to my parents' expectations – particularly those of my mother's – I've always fallen short. Whether it be in making my bed, cleaning the washroom or doing the dishes, there's some ounce of work yet left incomplete. In response, my mother says, "Is this what I've taught you? When you get married you'll reflect badly on me and this family. .
Even after 20 years, you have still not grown." With these words and many more, I feel fed up with my imperfections and resort in defiance which provokes the classic 'when I was your age' speech. My mother changed from being my best friend to my co-worker with whom I'd spend hours in the kitchen, cleaning floors or tidying rooms. .
I once heard that one of the most insightful bonds between women is that of a mother and daughter. The basis of this relationship, nurture, love and care allows the daughter to discover herself and live up to the societal expectations of femininity. Mothers are highly influential due to the amount of time they spend with their children during their growing years, teaching them right from wrong. The mother-daughter relationship is important because each daughter looks up to her mother as a female role model and learns what is expected of her in society. Caplan states in his article "Mother-Daughter Barriers" that one of the myths procreated by society is that "a measure of a good mother is a perfect daughter" (62). A daughter raised to embody all the standard feminine qualities is indicative of a mother who served her duty well. Adversely a daughter like myself who does not fit the conventional image of a female, reflected poorly on her mother. .
Only in the 20th century did women's rights actively gain momentum (Dr. Penner, Feb. 6th). The preceding period was built on an unjust system that was oppressive and advocated the 'property' of women (Dr.
