Berdache

Truly, the concept of berdache is very interesting. The berdache is for me a proof that two spirits/genders can be united in a one person. I think that one of the most important thing we can learn from berdaches is that gender is socially constructed.

In the past, the Indians expected them to perform some ceremonial rituals. The berdache was respected because being her/his meant being chosen by God- the Moon. The Indian tribes didn't treat berdaches with distrust and disgrace, but even in an opposite way. It is highly probable that in contemporary times they could be discriminated because of the cult of pure masculinity and femininity.

I think that the combination of the male and female traits give the berdaches better understanding of the world. Their view is broader and they are more sensitive. Obviously, the berdaches possess better understanding of each gender because of representing each gender. However, I believe that you don't have to be berdache to understand better the opposite gender. You can still be a pure man/woman and know a lot of about the other gender. It is only a question of time and profound observations on what other gender wants. I think that the concept of berdache is great, but for me it is a kind of gender "globalization". In my opinion the differences between a man and woman are wonderful. They cause that each gender is unique, universal, and exceptional. I don't like the idea that everybody could be berdache because it would be boring if everyone would know what the other gender expects. The variety is just what I love.