Parents undoubtedly play the most significant role in shaping the mindset and personalities of their kids. While menstruation has remained a topic that makes people uncomfortable for years, this is a story of empowerment. One in four people experience menstruation, yet sadly, in today’s modernized world, where we have overcome many major taboos and issues, we are still not open to conversations related to this topic.
The world could not help but appreciate Tara Ahrens, the mother of three. With two teen boys and a young daughter, one thing that she wants to challenge in this society is the silence that covers the room when it is specifically about menstruating women. Unwillingness to help, lack of knowledge, and whatnot, undoubtedly a lot that needs fixing!
While the family was shopping for their back-to-school supplies and a few necessary items, Tara took a picture of her sons, who are both teenagers, with their sister while they helped her choose her first bras. The picture was shared privately in a Facebook group that included only their close family members and friends, but it wasn’t the picture but the caption that outshone everything.
In the caption, she mentioned how her teenage boys have tampons and pads in their backpacks. This demonstrates how she has taught her sons to help a girl when she needs one, and both are well-equipped with the knowledge that mensuration is nothing to be ashamed about.
Although posted privately, most people reshared the post, which is why it soon got thousands of views and reactions. Most of the reactions were positive, but a few people did not agree with her perspective. However, the post created a safe space for women to share their first period stories, how they saved another girl’s day by being themselves, and some heartbreaking stories that included how women are treated and made to feel different while they are menstruating.
Some stories also demonstrated that in a few areas globally, even families do not support women when they menstruate, not just emotionally, but financially too, as getting products can be a bit costly. The comment section and how much appreciation a single post got make it clear how women are uncomfortable and ashamed of something they should not be!
Most people wonder what makes it so difficult to understand something natural and makes you fertile; however, Tara, as a great mother and woman, does not accept it anymore and is determined to make a clear difference through her efforts, starting from her family.
She is raising boys who won’t be disgusted but will provide comfort and support when a woman needs it. Tara also stated that the boys know the importance of being kind in a world where all people do is be cruel, and bled-throughs are a part of life.
The idea of teaching her boys such important stuff first popped in when she read an article about how, on a trail, a man offered a hiker a tampon as she needed it. The story inspired millions, and she knew it was essential that her sons carry it for the needy woman.
At first, the boys did not respond much to it as they were unaware until they saw one of their friends go through such a situation. The girl only knew how to use pads; thus, Micah and Elijah decided they must always carry tampons and pads.
Although most students are female in school, their date needs aren’t fulfilled; thus, even these little gestures can make a huge impact, which is why both boys have also spread the knowledge to their fellows and close friends. Most reacted with great respect while some mocked him and were ignored.
Teenage years are the best time to teach valuable lessons and kindness.
Tara wants to bring out the best of personalities from her kids, so they do not grow up carrying this taboo further; instead, it would play a significant role in decreasing this issue.
She wishes that there will come a day when no woman is ashamed to ask for a pad or to talk about her pain!
