Since I started writing, earlier this year after fully recovering from my neurological disorder and my wife’s recovery from cancer, as mentioned in my blog ‘Shall We Continue to Die‘, I’ve found myself thinking more deeply and feeling more sensitively. The issues around us may not be new, but my perspective has certainly changed significantly.

In today’s world, with all the chaos around us, I’m really worried about the growing hostility toward women and the rise of religious extremism. Both of these issues can seriously damage the fabric of our society. To keep our communities peaceful, we all need to do our part in controlling these problems. I invite everyone reading this blog, wherever you live, to come together and work towards restoring peace by respecting each other; regardless of gender, color, and religious differences.

To start with, as an effort to counter anti-woman sentiments, I thought an article shall be attributed to Allah’s most beautiful creation, i.e. Woman. Likewise, women can do the same for their counterparts.

No words can humanly praise women better than Allama Iqbal, a great poet and a philosopher, who with his poetic wisdom encapsulated an ocean in just one verse (in Urdu):

وجودِ زن سے ہے تصویرِ کائنات میں رنگ

(Existence of women colors the portrait of the universe)

This verse captures the heart of this article, i.e. appreciating women as Allah’s most beautiful, vibrant and extraordinary creation. Just as every living organism of the universe has its own world, philosophically, each person brings his/her own unique portrait of the universe to life through his/her dreams and surroundings.

For us men, the world is made brighter and more joyful by the presence of women, who glorify our portraits with their shades and hues. Even though my own portrait has lost some of its color, I’m hopeful that, bit by bit, I’ll get it back fully one day.

While words may never fully capture the extent of women’s contributions, this is my heartfelt attempt to express the deep respect, love, and admiration they deserve. This article is a small tribute to the women who have shaped my life—‘small’ because whatever I do, I can only return a minor fraction of what I have received from them.

I also started realizing that I’m a feminist, much more than a woman herself could be. Writing requires deep thinking and organizing ideas into lines and paragraphs, same process is followed in developing apps.

1. Introduction: Women—A Symphony of Shades and Hues

When I assume the universe as a wide canvas, it seems nothing less than a masterpiece full of infinite possibilities and boundless beauty. On this canvas, the presence of women is like a burst of vibrant colors, each brushstroke adding depth, emotion, and warmth. Women are the dynamic, ever-changing hues that infuse life with richness and complexity. Their laughter is the sunshine that brightens the darkest days, their resilience is the iron framework that withstands life’s blizzards, and their love is the gentle drizzle that cherishes the souls.

In various spaces, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), I often found myself reflecting on the profound impact women have on our lives. Despite the challenges and societal expectations placed upon them, the resilience, strength, and grace women display are nothing short of extraordinary. It made me realize that many men, including myself, harbor a deep-seated admiration for women—an admiration that is sometimes even more profound than that expressed by women themselves.

To finish this article, I drew from the vast resources available on Google and ChatGPT, which provided information about globally remarkable women known for their contributions in various fields. I also delved into the challenges women face worldwide, recognizing the struggles they endure and the resilience they exhibit.

As a man who can be regarded as a feminist, I have intentionally avoided contentious issues to maintain the essence of this tribute, focusing solely on the respect, love, and unconditional support women rightfully deserve—simply, no compromise on their dignity. This respect is akin to the love I hold for my mother, sisters, daughters, wife and friends.

2. Creation of a Woman: The Divine Craftsmanship

When Allah decides to create something, He does it with a single command: ‘Be’. The creation of women was surely nothing more than that command, but it has been humanly philosophized to describe a Woman as an act of divine craftsmanship, an artwork meticulously sculpted with grace, strength, and boundless potential. Philosophers, poets, and scholars have long tried to understand and articulate the essence of this wondrous creation, but perhaps no one captured it more beautifully than Allama Iqbal, as stated above, whose words resonate with profound truth.

A woman is a masterpiece of contrasts—delicate yet incredibly strong, nurturing yet fiercely independent. She possesses the remarkable ability to handle countless challenges with grace and poise, often shouldering burdens that might seem insurmountable. Her capacity for empathy and compassion is boundless, allowing her to connect deeply with others and provide comfort and support in times of need.

Consider the everyday heroism of a mother, who balances the demands of home, family, and personal aspirations while nurturing her children with love and care. A mother’s hug can soothe a child’s fears, her wisdom can guide them through life’s uncertainties, and her strength can anchor the family through turbulent times. Her love is a constant, unwavering force, a wellspring of warmth and security that never runs dry.

Yet, a woman’s strength is not just emotional; it is also physical and intellectual. Despite societal stereotypes that often portray women as the ‘weaker’ gender, history is stuffed with examples of women who have demonstrated extraordinary resilience and determination. From scientists and explorers to activists and leaders, women have proven time and again that they are capable of achieving greatness in any field.

Moreover, women are skilled communicators, negotiators, and problem-solvers. They can articulate their thoughts and feelings with clarity and precision, often finding creative solutions to complex issues. Their ability to think critically and empathize with others enables them to steer social dynamics tactfully, building strong relationships and fostering a sense of community.

Despite these remarkable qualities, woman is still an imperfect human! She has a major drawback that she often forgets what she is worth!  

The misogynic tendency to downplay their achievements and abilities is a common brawl, further degraded by social norms and expectations that are both limiting and unfair. This article is a reminder of the incredible value and beauty women bring into our lives. Whether it’s the love of a mother, the support of a sister, the companionship of a wife, or the joy of a daughter, women are the pillars that hold up the sky of our existence.

3. The Essence of Women in a Man’s Life

Imagine a world devoid of women—a bleak, colorless existence lacking the warmth, compassion, and joy that women inherently bring. Women infuse a medley of emotions into a man’s life, from love and resilience to patience and devotion. They are the colors that transform a monochromatic life into a vibrant, dynamic masterpiece. Here’s how they do it:

3.1. Mothers: The Original Multitaskers

Mothers are the bedrock of our existence, the original multitaskers who seamlessly juggle countless roles with grace and dedication. From the moment a mother cradles her newborn, she becomes a fortress of protection, a wellspring of love, and a guiding light. Her laughter is the melody of our earliest memories, and her wisdom, the compass that guides us through life’s storms.

Remember the times when she stayed up all night caring for us when we were sick, or the way she celebrated our smallest achievements as if they were monumental victories. These moments are saturated with her boundless love and dedication. A mother’s nurturing extends beyond physical care; she also imparts values, instills confidence, and encourages us to pursue our dreams.

But mothers are not just caregivers; they are also the best comedians. Their playful teasing and quirky advice often bring laughter into our lives. Whether it’s sharing funny stories from their youth or playfully blaming us for our misadventures, a mother’s humor is a balm that heals and uplifts. And those home-cooked meals? They’re not just sustenance; they’re love manifest, a testament to her endless patience and care.

3.2. Sisters: Partners in Crime

Sisters are the secret keepers, the partners in crime, and the best friends a man can have. They bring colors of solidarity, playful rivalry, and enduring friendship. With a sister around, life is never dull. From childhood adventures and shared secrets to supporting each other through life’s ups and downs, a sister’s presence adds depth and richness to our lives.

Late-night conversations, the inside jokes, and the comforting words during tough times, what not to fill our lives with a bliss. Sisters possess a supernatural ability to understand us, often knowing what we need before we do. They are the ones who stand by us, not just in good times but in the challenging ones as well. And the fun? Endless! From teasing each other to pulling off family pranks, the laughter and joy shared with a sister are irreplaceable.

Sisters also play a crucial role in shaping our perspectives and values. They challenge us to think differently, encourage us to be better, and often serve as our first role models. The bond between siblings is unique, characterized by a blend of love, rivalry, and mutual respect. Sisters teach us about empathy, compassion, and the importance of standing up for what is right.

3.3. Wives: Steadfast Companions

Wives are the steadfast companions who bring balance and harmony to a man’s life. They offer a palette of love, support, and shared dreams, turning everyday moments into beautiful memories. The partnership and companionship of a wife are like vibrant, dynamic strokes on the canvas of life, bringing out the best in us and adding depth to our existence.

A wife’s love is multifaceted and profound. It’s in the small, thoughtful gestures that brighten our day, the unwavering support during challenging times, and the dreams we build together. Her resilience and patience are remarkable, navigating life’s ups and downs with grace and strength. She is the one who stands by our side, holding our hand through life’s journey, making every step more meaningful and every achievement more joyous.

And the pleasures? Countless adventures together, spontaneous road trips, cozy evenings watching movies, and the shared laughter that echoes through the years. A wife brings a depth of love and companionship that transforms a man’s life into a vibrant, living masterpiece.

Wives also bring a sense of stability and security to our lives. Their ability to manage household responsibilities and family life, and provide emotional support is invaluable. They are the glue that holds families together, fostering a sense of unity and togetherness. The love and partnership shared with a wife are among life’s greatest joys, a source of strength and comfort that lasts a lifetime.

Besides all these characteristics, time and again, they also make us realize the complexity infused within them and that how difficult it is to handle them with care!

3.4. Daughters: Pure Sources of Joy and Pride

Daughters bring colors of hope, tenderness, and boundless potential to a man’s life. They are pure sources of joy and pride, from the moment they’re born to watching them grow and achieve their dreams. A daughter’s smile can light up the darkest day, and her achievements fill a father’s heart with unparalleled pride.

The joy of fatherhood is in the small, tender moments: teaching her to ride a bike, reading bedtime stories, and being her biggest cheerleader at every milestone. The bond between a father and daughter is special, filled with mutual admiration and love. Daughters teach their fathers patience, empathy, and the purest form of love.

And the fun? Watching them discover the world, sharing in their excitement and curiosity, and creating countless cherished memories together. From tea parties and dress-up games to heart-to-heart talks as they grow older, daughters’ presence fills a father’s life with joy, laughter, and a sense of wonder.

Daughters also inspire us to be better people. They challenge us to be more understanding, compassionate, and open-minded. As they grow and develop their own identities, they often become our teachers, showing us new perspectives and ways of thinking. The pride and joy we feel as we watch them succeed and pursue their dreams are unparalleled, a testament to the deep and abiding love that exists between parent and child.

3.5. Friends: The Steadfast Companions in Life’s Journey

‘A friend is someone who knows all about you and still loves you’ – Elbert Hubbard

Women as friends are the stars that light up our darkest nights, the anchors that keep us grounded amidst life’s storms. They offer a listening ear, and a heart full of empathy. In their company, we find the courage to face our fears, the joy of shared laughter, and the comfort of knowing we are not alone. A true friend celebrates our victories, mourns our losses, and stands by us through every twist and turn of life’s journey. They are the ones who see us at our best and our worst and love us just the same.

4. The Global Cultural Impact of Women

Women have been instrumental in shaping global culture in countless ways. Their contributions have been felt across art, literature, music, politics, and social movements. They have redefined beauty standards, challenged gender stereotypes, and advocated for equality and justice. Here’s a closer look at the impact of women in various fields:

4.1. Art and Literature

Women artists and writers have challenged norms, expanded perspectives, and given voice to marginalized experiences. Their works have redefined beauty standards, explored complex female characters, and ignited social conversations. For instance, women like Frida Kahlo and Amrita Sher-Gil have made significant contributions to the visual arts, using their work to explore themes of identity, gender, and cultural heritage. Poets like Parveen Shakir and Rupi Kaur have given voice to the female experience, exploring themes of love, loss, and empowerment.

Women writers have also played a crucial role in expanding the literary canon, introducing diverse perspectives and challenging traditional narratives. Their works have addressed issues such as gender inequality, racial discrimination, and social justice, inspiring readers to think critically and advocate for change.

4.2. Music

Women musicians have broken barriers, created iconic sounds, and influenced fashion and culture. Their music has empowered women and girls, providing platforms for self-expression and challenging gender stereotypes. Beyoncé, for example, has used her music to address issues of race, gender, and empowerment, becoming a cultural icon and a voice for marginalized communities. Artists like Lata Mangeshkar, Noor Jehan, and Nazia Hassan have left an indelible mark on the music industry, their songs becoming anthems of love, resilience, and cultural pride.

Women in music have also been pioneers in various genres, from rock and pop to classical and jazz. They have challenged traditional gender roles, redefined femininity, and inspired countless other artists to follow in their footsteps. Through their music, women have created spaces for dialogue and self-expression, advocating for social change and breaking down barriers.

4.3. Politics and Leadership

Women leaders have shaped policies, inspired social change, and advocated for equality. Their presence in positions of power has challenged traditional gender roles and paved the way for future generations of women leaders. Leaders like Queen Elizabeth II, Angela Merkel, Jacinda Ardern, Benazir Bhutto, Indira Gandhi, and Kamala Harris have demonstrated that women are capable of leading nations with strength, wisdom, and compassion.

Women in politics have been at the forefront of advocating for gender equality, human rights, and social justice. They have worked to create policies that address issues such as healthcare, education, and economic inequality, often bringing unique perspectives and approaches to governance.

4.4. Society

Women are the heartbeat of families and communities. They nurture, educate, and provide emotional support, contributing to the overall well-being of society. Figures like Lady Diana, Mother Teresa, and Bilquis Edhi are revered for their humanitarian efforts, embodying selfless service and compassion. These women have dedicated their lives to helping those in need, offering support and comfort to the most vulnerable members of society.

Women also play a crucial role in building and sustaining communities. They often serve as caregivers, educators, and leaders, fostering a sense of unity and belonging. Their contributions to community development, from grassroots organizing to philanthropic efforts, have had a profound impact on the social and economic well-being of countless individuals and families.

5. Conclusion: A Tapestry Woven with Love and Devotion

The existence of women indeed adds vibrant colors to the tapestry of a man’s life. Their resilience, commitment, and firm support are woven into the fabric of a man’s experiences, enriching and enhancing every aspect of his journey.

As we move forward, it is imperative to recognize, appreciate, and support women, ensuring that they contribute with their unique and invaluable threads to the intricate design of our lives.

In the words of the poet who penned the line, ‘وجودِ زن سے ہے تصویرِ کائنات میں رنگ’ (existence of women colors the portrait of the universe), let’s acknowledge and appreciate the colors women bring to our lives. Their presence is not just a part of the picture; it is a defining element that shapes the beauty and complexity of the tapestry we all weave together.

So, here’s to the women who paint our lives with their vibrant colors: Thank you for your love, resilience, patience, support, and devotion. The world, and every man’s life within it, is a richer, more beautiful place because of you. We honor, respect, and support the women in our lives, recognizing their invaluable contributions to our personal and collective journeys.