Have you recently had a moment when you felt like your heart was literally lighting up? A moment when you felt so inspired or joyful it was visible?! Or maybe something resonated with you so much you felt like, ‘finally this is what I’ve felt all along!”?
Storytime Recently, I shared a link to my blog with an acquaintance. At first this was just a passing, “Oh I wrote a blog post about that.” Meaning, I didn’t think to worry about being judged. However, within a few days anxiety started to creep {read more}
There are many women in my life that are absolutely outstanding. Amazing mothers, great professionals, wise educators, content creators, determined students and brave authors.
No matter their ‘title’ in life, they are all influencers in one way or another. With a wide variety of personalities, they all have ONE thing in common: they set out to make the world a better place. Whether that world is their immediate home, the hospital they work in, the classroom they lead or their actual audience. Some use their words to inspire, their hands to help or their words to guide.
In each case, they provide an example, they are role models, they encourage, they coach and mentor. They listen and learn. They comfort and share. These women want every person that is apart of their lives to flourish.
NOTE: I have read or listened to each of these books. Also, the links above are Amazon Affiliate links.
Upon reflection, I realize just how many women have shaped who I am today. Not going to be able to name all of them, and as I was writing this, more and more flooded into my memory bank. One person I didn’t name in today’s post is mentioned on my inspiration page, along with additional books by female authors. It makes me realize how fortunate I truly am! Especially the time I was growing up – all the women before me who stood in their convictions and made sure we could vote. The women who broke the glass ceiling and blazed trails that were previously not available to us!
The next section is literally me gushing about many amazing women in my life. Starting from the early years going until now. Of course, this does not even come close to describing every one! However, one commonality is each women’s nurturing sprit.
Going back all the way to pre-school, one of my teachers would shake the milk and ask if I wanted a ‘milkshake’. Even today, when I shake my oat milk, I think of this woman. We shared a last name but weren’t family. This little simple gesture still warms my heart.
Next, one of my grammar school teachers, who happened to teach me English. (I think she reads these… hi Mrs. D!). She truly wanted to see each of her students succeed. Her directness, her smile and her laugh, and her overall vibe was so regal but comforting at the same time. Being in her presence I always felt held to a high expectation but also so safe and cared for.
There was one nun in particular, who gave me the ability to be bold, honest and confident. She never wanted to see me conform, and always wanted to see me do my best.
In college, my English professor comes to mind. Her ability to draw out emotion from literature, and teach us how to express ourselves was almost spiritual.
Right out of college my first leader taught me EVERYTHING about real-world business. She gave me a chance. Thankful that she took me traveling, helped me build confidence. The best part, she role modeled how to be classy and taught me the nuance of being client facing. Outside of work, she is an amazing mother and gracious wife. She takes care of her family in a way that is so gentle, graceful and something I hope I can be one day.
Another amazing woman in my life is the mother of one of my good friends. She was almost a mother to me in college. Having just spoken to her yesterday, immediate thoughts of how strong, honest and caring she is.
My memories include lots of yummy homecooked meals, a sweet and loving laughter. No matter if I just stopped in with no notice or made arrangements to see her months in advance, she always had a hot cup of coffee and a meal to whip up. She and her husband treated me like a daughter, they came to visit me in NC. She’s always always made me feel welcome, heard and loved. She is another amazing woman who is confident, genuine and strong.
Gosh, I could seriously go on and on. One more for now and I’ll save some for the years to come. One of my family members. Her voice is as smooth as butter. She ministers to many, speaks life into others and all while dealing with quite a bit within her own household. Knowing that she’s seen more in this life than most could handle, she stays true to her faith and helps others grow theirs. Even though we live miles apart, I know I am in her prayers and she in mine.
On this International Women’s Day,
Honor those who have grown the love in your life.
First, take a moment to recognize yourself. Take a few moments to think about how far you’ve come as a person and in your field. Acknowledge your strength and the difference you make. Allow yourself to let appreciation for your good decisions wash over you. Realize the strength it takes to make the improvements to yourself.
After, think about the women who have impacted your life! If they are still on earth, maybe send a text or make a phone call to let them know. Not only to say thank you, but to let them know how you are doing! What I’ve noticed over time is that most women truly do want to see others succeed! Therefore, if someone has has a positive influence on you, they most likely also want to hear how that helped you grow!
Lastly, reflect a moment on someone that may look up to you as the role model and example. Pour into their life today or the near future, open up if you feel comfortable! Being vulnerable and sharing the hurdles you may have overcome are sometimes the moments that make the biggest impact.
