An interesting thing about the English language is how many words sound exactly alike (or almost exactly), but the distinction in meaning is in the spelling. Here is a great example – bridal and bridle. When you think about the distinction in meanings in these two different words and look beneath the surface, the connection between the two comes into almost shocking perspective. To bridle means to curb, to bring something under control – how is that much different than what happens to the bride (in many if not most instances)?
In the photo here, my little sister and I are contemplating the dolls we received for
christmas when we were 4 and 7. Of course you can interpret the meanings expressed in this photo in many different ways. To me the look on my face more or less says it all .. not particularly overjoyed to say the least – more of a vacuous resignation. Even though I certainly got the message that was intended in the doll’s attire little did I realize that the symbolic meaning was actually to bridle what I, as a girl child, was destined to live out in my life. Nor could I ever have imagined then that within a couple of short decades my persuasions toward women Continue reading
Peggy L Chinn 