Continuing with my previous proposal that the world should be run by women, not men, and that the female human is less likely to resort to armed conflict, have you ever thought about how outstanding individuals are recognised and rewarded? Who get the medals and why? Soldiers, police and a few other professionals earn gongs in recognition of outstanding service and exemplary behaviour, In particular, we are keen to recognise examples of great bravery, and success despite overwhelming odds. These features are regarded as desirable and admirable in the male human, but rarely recognised or rewarded in women. They are, in fact, widely recognised as laudable male characteristics.

But what are the desirable, universally recognised and rewarded female characteristics? Previously, these would have been considered as those of a ‘good mother or compliant wife’. In other words, women would have been approved of (but rarely rewarded) for behaving in ways considered appropriate by men. But is this the best we can do? Even now, I can think of several circumstances involving women, and you will too, worthy of public recognition (much more than a medal). For example, but not in order of importance:

1. The young women with one or more children who have been abandoned by their husbands or partners, or where they have died, and are then forced to rear their families single-handed while also holding down a job.
2. The older woman who is solely responsible for an ageing relative not capable of looking after themselves.
3. Those women who sacrifice their careers and risk their lives in caring for those humans, both civilians and combatants who are injured in war. The volunteers in Medicins Sans Frontieres come to mind.
4. And, of course, every pregnancy warrants a medal. Bringing a new human animal into existence and rearing one is a sacrifice beyond the ability of males.

Dedication, worthy of recognition and medals, is much more than bravery while facing injury or death. but should include long term service and sacrifice for others.