"One is not born a woman, one becomes one."
International Women’s Day, is a day that focuses on the appreciation, love, and respect of the women around us. This is a global day that celebrates the economic, political, and social achievements of women in the past, present, and future. It is a time to look at the women who have made imprints on your life and to realize that you can leave a mark on another girls life.
For me, I have been blessed with the best mentors. Ones that have guided me and showed me what it is to be a woman of respect, success, and faith. The women in my life have set an example of what I want to become, and in part have already obtained. Whether it be my mom, my sisters, a former teacher, a family friend, or an advisor, I have seen first hand what being a woman looks like. It is not just an age that you finally reach and call yourself a woman and it is not getting married and having kids. Being a woman, to me, is one that exudes class, grace, respect, and faith. At times, it can be hard to uphold myself to this standard, but luckily that is why I have these mentors in my life. They help me when I need advice or just a listening ear. Above all the wonderful qualities that these women possess, they have a growing relationship with the Lord. Despite all the difficulties that they face, they trust God’s plan above their own, and that is just another reason why I look up and aspire to be like them.
“Your children will become who you are: so be who you want them to be.”
In addition to celebrating those women in the past and present, it is also necessary to celebrate those of the future, us. We are the women of the future. Those that will be the mentors of the generations after us. I aim to be like these mentors in my life so that I can then in turn be a mentor to others. Being a role model to girls younger than me has always been a goal of mine. In the fall of last year, I joined an organization that promotes the highest type of womanhood. Gamma Phi Beta has helped me grow as a person, but more importantly as a woman. Our philanthropic statement is "building strong girls," which we strive to do daily. We are involved in Girls on the Run and Girls Inc. which allow us to set an example for the girls that we are around. In a sense, we are strong women building strong girls. Before we can promote the highest type of womanhood, we must first become that ourselves. Being a woman, and presenting yourself in such a way cannot be accomplished by a checklist. However, after doing some research, these are characteristics that a woman should possess (or at least I think so). A woman also has her own opinions, so feel free to agree or to disagree.
A woman is a leader. She knows she has influence and uses it to lead people to good.
A woman is gracious. She is thankful and expresses gratitude no matter how small.
A woman is honest. She says what she means and means what she says.
A woman is self-aware. She is aware of experiences going on around her.
A woman thinks before she speaks. If a comment is unnecessary, she won’t say it.
A woman is the best-version of herself. She doesn’t downplay her abilities.
A woman is steadfast. She is consistent no matter the time or circumstance.
A woman has integrity. She does the right thing when no one else is looking.
A woman is thoughtful. She gives to show she cares about others.
A woman uses her words wisely. She refrains from gossip and negative talk.
A woman represents herself with class and dignity, including posts on social media.
A woman is hospitable. She does her best to make sure everyone is comfortable.
A woman is temperate. She has self-control and discipline.
A woman draws boundaries. She knows what she will and will not allow.
A woman expresses genuine interest in others, and what they are interested in.
A woman is honoring. She gives acknowledgment where it is due.
A woman is original. She has role-models but never copies or compares.
A woman knows when to let things go. She knows getting upset gives away power.
A woman is humble. She allows others to have their moments.
A woman is adaptable. She knows how to navigate during different situations.
A woman is kind. She is always wanting to make everyone feel included.
A woman is always learning. She is constantly growing.
A woman is a generous listener. She listens to others without interruption.
A woman is a peace-maker. She doesn’t contribute to drama against friends.
A woman is noble. She does the right thing even when it is not expected of her.
Above all, a woman believes in her Creator. She knows that her identity is rooted in the Maker. Her strength, wisdom, and grace come from time spent with the Father.
“There is so much to becoming a woman.”
In honor of International Women’s Day I just want to thank all the women in the past, present, and future for all that they do. Thank you to my mentors who have instilled in me, the characteristics of a woman. Thank you for always showing me how to deal with struggles, heartache, and life-changing decisions. I am thankful to know you, and I am blessed that God put each of you in my life.
To the women of the future, let's be the women we were inspired to be. That way we can become the mentors and leaders that we have had in our lives.
So enjoy your day and turn up your girl power music, because who runs the world?
Girls! (well women actually)
"Here's to strong women. May we know them, may we be them, may we raise them."
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