A woman's longing

Today I read an article written by Jimmy Carter advocating for a biblical understanding of the equality of women.
http://www.theage.com.au/federal-politics/losing-my-religion-for-equality-20090714-dk0v.html
It reminded me of this poem which expresses the journey of my heart as I've tried to understand my place in God's kingdom.  The gifts He has given me have not always been welcome.  I love God and His word and I want to be faithful and obedient to it.  That means that I want a biblical understanding of who I am as a woman.  I choose to live out His gifting and call on my life with courageous faithfulness. 

"Thank God, I'm not a woman,"
that is what I've heard them say.
These men who seem to hold all power
     press to be 'the man of the hour'
     over all so pleased to tower
     focus on the role they play.

Oh God, I wish I weren't a woman
this refrain, in minor key,
is the rhythm of my heartbeat
    where bondage and soul's yearning meet
    in a man's world, - they will cheat
    me - how I long to be free.

Oh God, why do you dislike women?
An 'arm's-length faith' - I do believe -
     unclean, unfit,
    simple and illiterate,
    the Word and worship jealously guarded
    by Sons of Adam from daughters of Eve.

Thank God, that I am a woman.
There is that which only I could do:
    to mother the King, this babe to bear;
    to anoint Him with scent, tears, my hair.
    The men, outraged, sputter and stare.
    Only a woman could so adore You.

God you love women,
for women remain
    in weeping vigil at your cross;
    rise early to seek your Body, their loss
    compels them,
    First witness of the gaping tomb's loss,
Woman, first, hears You, risen, call her name.

Rejoice, O Woman, first sent by Jesus,
    His victory to proclaim!

God made me a woman.
His image I bear.
   Redeemed, indwelt, set free;
   A beloved Child He sees,
   entrusted with life-giving gifts - oh let me
be all that He made me to be-
I dare!