Dethroning Cinderella

Many Jewish girls grow up in the same way that I did; namely, find a boy and he'll take care of you. This credo implies that
1) When we have a problem, we should turn to our boyfriend or spouse and he'll rescue us.
2) Conversely, we are unable to solve our own problems.
3) Another person is responsible for our happiness.
4) Conversely, we are incapable or devoid of that responsibility.
5) We can be happy only when we are with someone else, not when we're alone.

This Cinderella Complex has jeopardized marriages, eviscerated girls' self-images, and doomed them to a life of dependency and unhappiness.

It's time we recognized that the root of Cinderella is "cinder" and that too many relationships are set afire from the smoldering ashes of dependency.

Two people who are strong, capable and ready to love and be loved can truly be a Royal Couple.