Thank you for sharing, Donna, about your journey with this issue.

Too often, people see this as a clear black and white issue instead of one with many nuances and factors. I think that even in our world, different things are appropriate for different cultures (while always fighting against oppression, abuse, and belittlement, which have more to do with sanctity of life than roles).

I appreciate that you've taken the bible seriously before jumping into something one way or the other--that's what's important. Seeing the Bible as living and active and transforming culture and people.