On Our Best Behavior: The Seven Deadly Sins For Women

For centuries, women have been taught that the Seven Deadly Sins are things to be avoided at all costs. Pride, greed, lust, envy, gluttony, wrath, and sloth are seen as the hallmarks of a bad person, and women who indulge in these sins are often labeled as "bad girls" or "sluts."

But what if the Seven Deadly Sins are not so bad for women? What if they are essential for our liberation?

In her book "On Our Best Behavior," Elise Loehnen argues that the Seven Deadly Sins are tools that can help women break free from the patriarchal expectations that have been imposed on them for centuries.

Loehnen begins by tracing the history of the Seven Deadly Sins, showing how they were originally used to control and oppress women. She then goes on to show

How has the patriarchy affected women's lives?

What are some ways that we can challenge the patriarchy today?

Reflect on your own experiences with the patriarchy.

Share your thoughts and feelings with a friend or family member.

Questions:

1. What are some of the key historical events that have shaped the patriarchy?
2. How has the patriarchy affected women's lives?
3. What are some ways that we can challenge the patriarchy today?
4. Reflect on your own experiences with the patriarchy.
5. Share your thoughts and feelings with a friend or family member.
Assessment Checklists

Challenged the stereotypes and expectations that I have been taught about women:

Did I read articles or books about the history of the patriarchy?
Did I talk to other women about their experiences with the patriarchy?
Did I get involved in activism or advocacy work that challenges the patriarchy?
Chapter 2: Sloth: Believing Sloth to Be Sinful, We Deny Ourselves Rest

In this chapter, Loehnen explores the sin of sloth. She argues that sloth is often seen as a feminine sin and that women are often taught to suppress their natural need for rest. This can lead to burnout, exhaustion, and even illness. Loehnen argues that it is important for women to reclaim their right to rest, and to find ways to nurture themselves and their

It is important for women to embrace their pride.
5. We can do this by acknowledging our strengths and achievements.
6. We also need to challenge the idea that pride is a sin or a sign of arrogance

Goals

How do you plan to showcase and embrace your talents without fear of seeming arrogant or boastful, fostering a sense of confidence and self-worth?
What strategies will you implement to acknowledge and appreciate your achievements, using them as a foundation to propel yourself towards further growth?
How will you shift your perspective on pride from a negative attribute to a positive force that empowers you to excel and contribute meaningfully?
How can I deal with pride in a healthy way? How can I use my pride to motivate myself? How can I help others to be proud of themselves?
What is my vision for a world where everyone is proud of who they are?

Self-reflection Questions

1. How have people's opinions and societal norms influenced the way you express pride in your own accomplishments and talents?
2. Do you find yourself downplaying your abilities to avoid seeming boastful or arrogant? How does this affect your self-perception?
3. Looking back at your achievements, can you identify moments when you denied yourself pride due to fear of being seen as