International Woman’s Day
Are you a feminist? No, I never considered myself a feminist. I am old fashioned, I believe in putting home and family first. I write romance, always dreaming of happily ever after. How could I be a feminist?
I come from a long line of big shoulder broads, women who did what needed doing to survive, to make sure their families thrived. I vote because I owe these women for the sacrifices they made that I would have the right to vote. I believe that whoever is best for the job, no matter the gender should have the chance to prove themselves. That equal work deserves equal pay. That women all over the world should be valued and given the opportunity to be educated. I believe that all women deserve to have a voice: to make decisions affecting their lives and the lives of their families. Am I a feminist?
I have been blessed to have strong women in my life. My sister-in-law Denise Toler who never let her size keep her from doing whatever she wanted to do. My little sister from another mother, Robina Norman who pushed me to commit to my writing and taught me what friendship was all about. My friends Vickie Jones, Alice Norman, Mary Hill and Peggy Mers who have shown grace under terrible conditions and shown me true strength. My mentors Marni Graff, Glenoria Jennette, Joan Walker and Pat Jordan who have given me strength, courage and confidence to seek my dreams by showing me the way. My childhood friends, cousins, aunts and grandmothers who all helped mold me into the person I’ve become. You have each taught me about womanhood, character and given me my voice.
I am blessed to have the influence of strong women but it is also the understanding, confidence and faith of my men that have allowed me to grow and discover my strength. Men of the world hold the illusion of power. But unless they are willing to see women as equals their power is that of tyrants. It is only as equals that we can all be free. Am I a feminist? I guess I am.
To all the women of strength and courage who have touched my life, you are too many to name but you have a place in my heart. I thank you for all that you have taught me. Happy Woman’s Day!
Happy Woman’s Day
