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Written by Veronica Forsman
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Wednesday March 10, 2010 |
I'm musing on today, as women across the world celebrate International Woman's Day, a day to celebrate all we have accomplished, fought for and continue to fight for today.
It’s interesting to me, when I look around and see the unity in my life born from connection and comradery, support and challenge, stubbornness and hope for the future, women all around me who never give up, have this incredible way of balancing hard core standards and determination with care and understanding, empathy and a belief in the human spirit. It’s something that can be taught to all mankind, but today, as I focus on the gift of being a woman, I am in awe.
We have a long way to go. In many countries there are still young women being sold into slavery and prostitution. There are still countries where women are made to work for nothing because of the belief that that is all they are worth, their purpose simply to serve and procreate. I’m so blessed to know and understand that I live in a country of great freedom, where women are given every right and the ability to speak their mind, share their thoughts and opinions and fight for their place in this world. I am honoured to be part of a huge group of women that support one another, encourage one another, would fight to the death for one another, simply because that’s who we are.
This day is not simply about women’s rights and freedoms. Since 1999 this incredible day has served as a marking of celebration. Of recognition. Of achievements and hope and the reflection of all we have come from, survived in, created from, believed in...and here we are.
I wanted to take this day to say THANK YOU to every woman in and around my life that has reminded me of what I’m made of and what I’m made for, and I want to say THANK YOU for everything you stand for and are an example to. You remind me of the hope there is in this world and of the hope there has ALWAYS been in this world.
 And for everyone else out there who happens to be reading this, I thank you too in advance, as I hope a day like today, as we look back and see the examples of hope in the thousands over decades in the women everywhere that have survived unspeakable betrayal, pain, hurt, degradation and disrespect, will pass hope on to you, reminding you that this world we live in today is not all darkness and hatred. Every day offers new hope and the ability to change, grow and pass along to others. We just have to hold our hands out and grab onto another. Hand in hand we create hope for the future and a bright and beautiful future at that. This is my prayer today and of course, my hope as well.
This day should also serve as a reminder to everyone, men and women alike, that we are not to underestimate the power of who we are to someone else. Lend a helping hand. stand up for the little guy. Support one another in the big things and the small things. Pat each other on the back when encouragement is needed and never turn your back on the hurt that is all around you. You have so much to give, in the wonderful one-of-a-kind you that you are. Make it count.
Happy International Woman’s Day everyone.
Details to factor...
~ In 1910 non African working women met in Europe to fight for the right to work less hours.
~ On March 11, 1911, Women’s Day was honoured for the first time in Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland.
~ In 1975, the United Nations made March 8th officially the International Women’s Day, a day set aside to demand rights and freedoms.
~In 1999 International Women’s Day changed to be a day to celebrate and signify women’s accomplishments and achievements. |
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