Late Reflections for International Women's Day

    Yesterday was International Women's Day. While the day is meant to acknowledge women's social, economic, political, and cultural achievements, some posts that flooded my social media have led me to believe that some of the day's meaning seems lost. Frankly, saccharine posts about the beauty and intelligence of women are akin to what Hallmark would pump out in February. Yet, there is so much more to women than brains and outward appearance! Beauty must be present in thought, deed, morals, and integrity. 

    To ensure the impacts of March 8th are felt, take action! Our privilege shows when we fail to recognize that women come from ALL different walks of life. Regardless of social standing or education level, women CAN! We have made a difference in this world and will continue to do so. 

    At some point in the next 364 days, take the time to reach out to a woman who might be lonely. Acknowledge the woman growing accustomed to living life as her true self. Befriend a woman at a different life stage than yours. Be a voice for women who don't have a voice of their own. Help the homeless. Sign petitions to ensure girls have a right to an education. Change.org is a great place to start! 

    I have been blessed with many incredible women in my life. They are my mother, daughter, sisters, nieces, grandmothers, aunts, cousins, friends, in-laws,  colleagues, students, and favourite authors. Some live nearby; some are provinces away. There is a number I have never met in person! Sadly, some are no longer earthside. They come from all ages and stages of my existence. I like to think I have impacted them in some way as they have impacted me. I am not a woman who will be recalled for being silent on things that matter. 

    What an honour to have raised one of the most genuine women I have ever known - my daughter, Emily. She is twenty-one now and has always been encouraged to be herself unapologetically. She gets it and somehow gets me. As she continues to make her way in this world, I have faith that she will make her dreams come true.