HOW you see something can always have an impact on how you relate to and treat that thing. The very same principle applies to a human being.

On Friday, we will mark International Women’s Day, which is celebrated worldwide annually; and its theme this year is ‘Inspire Inclusion’. Our women deserve to always be recognised, and from my standpoint as a male, I see them just as important as any other in our society. Inclusion at all levels is a must.

I am grateful for the strides we have made in Trinidad and Tobago when it comes to the inclusion of our women. They can be seen in all walks of life, and with much struggle, they have overcome and are shining as the sun.

Not to sound negative, for too long, many men have had the idea that the woman was somehow the lesser of the two genders, but I surely do not hold to that teaching. She deserves the very same respect and should be treated with dignity. When we begin to see her in this light, this world will be a much better place.

The time is now when all the stories we consistently hear of-hardship, abuse, violence, unfairness and exploitation-that women across the world must endure daily must come to an eternal end.

So, women of T&T and the world, you are not lesser but an equal gift from God.

Arnold Gopeesingh
San Juan