Women's Day

So it is international women's day today, and my facebook feed has been showing up a variety of ways that friends have been celebrating - remembering the murdered and missing aboriginal women in Canada, the murder of trans women, 'India's daughter' and Jyoti Singh, going to marches, protests, talks, and many simply celebrating their daily achievements that matter most to them. Some have even questioned, why celebrate it just today? What does this day mean?

To be honest, this day was just another day for me. I haven't really planned anything to celebrate myself or the women in my life. But if anything, I am remembering the women in my lives, and reflecting on what I can learn from them. And there is plenty to learn. I have many role models to look up to and emulate.

I think about my grandmothers, I think of inner reflection, determination.
I think about my mother, I think of patience and strength.
I think about my aunts, I see humour, courage.
I think about my sisters, I see hard work, ambition, ingenuity.
I think about my friends, I hear their laughter, loyalty.
I think about my mentors, I see guidance, leadership, compassion.
I think about me. I feel proud. To know and to have so many women who have come in to my life thus far, and have left their mark on me. They do so without knowing it or without intending to. They simply be themselves, and my world is a better place because of it. Like a tree.

I feel joy when I think about all of them. What a privilege that is!

To me, taking a moment out to remember how my life has been transformed by the women in my life and around the world, is how I celebrate today.

Happy Women's Day!