By Yesterday was International Women’s Day. In honor of that I want to salute the important women in my life who have helped make me the person I am and will be. I come from a line a of strong women. Their strength was definitely passed down to me by both DNA and example. In addition, I have made connections with other strong women who became friends and chosen family. All of the women mentioned below definitely are a big reason thriving is possible for me.
My mama is the strongest woman I know. She has made so many sacrifices for me and taught me exactly how I want to be. I am proud to be her daughter…every day. It is an honor. My granny (her mama) taught us all how to be strong women of faith. I miss her all the time. She is never far away, however. I hope she takes credit for who I am, too; she should.
My aunts are two more strong women who love me so much and have been there for me in some of my most difficult times Even though one aunt is now in Heaven they are neither far away. My Aunt Debbie (not related by blood, but family nonetheless) helped me learn how to thrive by helping me learn to move and move better. Now, she is always there to give advice when my condition brings changes I do not understand. My favorite teacher saved my confidence when I was 16. She made me believe in myself. I love her for teaching me so much more than just what came out of my math book. She is still teaching me and always will. She and her family are part of my family.
My Aunt Jackie is not related by blood, either. She was family to mama and me her whole life. She still is. Aunt Jackie gave me my first chosen sister. Aunt Jackie made sure we both knew how proud she was of both of her girls. I have watched in awe at the strength, faith, and resilience of her daughter/ my chosen sister this last year+. Last year was the most difficult of both of our lives, and yet we are better for it. We know we can not only survive anything, but thrive through it. Our friendship and sisterhood is stronger than before just the way Aunt Jackie hoped. I love you, sister of mine. If this tribute makes you cry: I am sorry, but you need to know how I feel about you.
My other chosen sisters, oh gosh, where would I be without them? Certainly not anywhere I am now. They are always there for advice and encouragement. I do my best to give the same back to them. They give me a sense of belonging by loving me the way they do, but do not have to. I am grateful they chose to and love each of them dearly. My incredible female friends: I am better for knowing each of you and am thankful that you all are in my life.
Now, it is your turn: tell me about the incredible women in your lives who make you better that you would like to honor. Please?
