On the Merit of Modesty
Like many Bangladeshi women, I was raised to highly value modesty.
However, "modesty" became a misnomer for "meekness," indicating a lack in oneself warranted meekness.
There is a difference between humility and modesty. One is a state of mind, personally dictated, belonging to me. The other is a performance that centres a stranger’s perspective, making me less of a person.
The image of a meek woman has been glorified in Bangladeshi culture, resulting in stigma for women in professional and personal matters.
A certain merit was attached to the woman who is a sacrificial lamb, and I was taught to watch myself through the eyes of another, despite growing up abroad.
Author's summary: Modesty vs meekness explored.