A Daughter's Arrival: Challenging Patriarchal Norms in 1982 Village

Suddenly, an eerie hush descended upon the surroundings. In the village, the birth of a child was a significant event, drawing the attention of most idle villagers.

Presently, over a dozen villagers had congregated around the yard, spanning various ages and genders. However, upon learning that the newborn was a girl, several elderly individuals in the group visibly displayed disdain.

After enduring hours of labor, they had anticipated a robust baby boy, not a girl.

A sentiment prevailed in the backward and impoverished village of 1982, where patriarchal norms reigned supreme. Many harbored a strong preference for male offspring, going so far as to resort to infanticide for unwanted girls.

Wouldn't she be condemned to drown in the well or become wolf fodder in the distant mountains?

The midwife shared the family's bias toward sons and sighed inwardly, fearing for the girl's future.

Disgusted by the patriarchal mindset, the midwife's demeanor shifted from joy to indifference as she confirmed the baby's gender: "Yes, she's a girl, quite beautiful, takes after her mother."

The man's countenance transformed from anxiety to elation upon hearing the news. Overwhelmed with joy, he exclaimed, "Truly? Wonderful! Finally, a daughter! This is fantastic!"

Buoyed by his excitement, he dashed into the house, ignoring any caution about the health of his wife and newborn.

Fu Bao, overhearing this, was puzzled by the unexpected turn of events.

Wasn't this contrary to her expectations?

Meanwhile, Mrs. Li scolded her husband for his recklessness, fearing for the well-being of her daughter-in-law and the baby. Yet, she graciously handed two red envelopes to the midwife, a token of gratitude despite their financial constraints.

Curiosity spread among the villagers, accustomed to the Li family's reputation as the poorest in the area. They couldn't fathom why a girl's birth warranted such generosity.

In their patriarchal mindset, sons were prized possessions, while daughters were deemed burdensome, prompting disdainful remarks about the Li family's unusual joy over a daughter.

This incited Mrs. Li's ire, prompting her to confront the gossipers with fierce determination, defending her family's joy over their long-awaited daughter.