Growing up, I was sold the idea that women were complete equals in just about every typical aspect of life. Obviously, some physical differences but spiritually, emotionally, intellectually, financially, etc. they could/were equals and the only thing ever holding them back was society at large and - even then - it was mainly men at fault.

I’ve since tried existing in this world with such a belief and it seems basically impossible to reconcile that belief and then being in a romantic relationship with a woman as a man. As far as it goes, a man must almost always be the superior in intellect, emotional regulation, spiritual guidance, breadwinner, and so forth. One could say the patriarchy or whatever but that’s for society at large - and this is evident in nearly every instance I see in life. Individual women could easily refuse this and marry a man who makes nothing, dumb as bricks, and so forth. I don’t see it happening in white collar SF or NYC. Instead, the men and women who I see happiest and most content with the situation that arises are men and women who both believe that women are lesser beings.

If you believe women should have as much responsibility as a child then you seem to fair much better in the world. Both as a man and as a woman.

I don’t know how to deal with it. I don’t want to be with someone that I view as inherently lesser than me and yet that is what all these individuals want. I was born in the wrong era.