Jody, I'm really glad you shared some of your own experiences around this topic. I find it so fascinating. Sometimes I think I missed my calling as a sociologist. :) Anyway, your descriptions of the two types of women from religious backgrounds sounds pretty much accurate to me. That's exactly what my husband and I DON'T want for our three girls, which is why we're trying to find a balance. It sounds like your parents did a good job of teaching you about the importance of honest communication and expression. Our hope is that we can figure out how to teach our kids that, and also tie it into our beliefs about God's love for them. It won't be easy, but it's a very worthwhile pursuit.