I think you all aren't feeling me: I never said that one's decision to become a mother while young and not married is an insurmountable obstacle or "unforgiveable sin," so to speak. I also don't feel that by not extending membership to single mothers who are in college that I am saying go to hell! I'm just saying that I don't think it's a good example to set AND I think that mothers need to focus on the studies and family and working for their community. They don't need a sorority to do that.
I just don't understand why people feel entitled to join a sorority, A NON-ESSENTIAL, NOT REQUIRED part of the college experience. You aren't owed membership just because you're doing what you chose to do-be a mother, student, worker, etc. You can't be denied something you aren't owed in the first place.
I don't doubt that undergraduate single mothers contribute to their communities and families while juggling a great deal of responsibility. I'm saying that being in a sorority is not a right, it's a priviledge, and that those who choose new members to carry the torch should look carefully at the message they send when they choose people who CHOOSE certain life situations. Single motherhood is one of those situations, but I feel the same about academic mediocrity, sexual promiscuity and undignified behavior.
Oohlala: I would tell that young woman that yes, if she met the sorority's standards, she should consider it, but I would counsel her to wait until she graduates from college. Her focus in school needs to be on her family and studies.
[This message has been edited by Discogoddess (edited August 10, 2000).]
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