I've been blessed to have so many wonderful women in my life. They've taught me many lessons over the years, like how to be strong, and how to stick up for myself. Those same women have nurtured me with endless love and care, molding me into the person I am today. My best friend has been by my side through situation after situation; deaths, losses, sorrow, and joy. She's comforted me through it all. My grandma has watched over me since I was a child, at times spoiling me with tenderness, and at other times, bestowing me with firm guidance. My mother stayed at my side every time I was sick, tending to me until I felt better. When I came home from school, upset and nearly in tears, my mom would hold me tight, whispering that it would be okay. Through tempers and tantrums, my mother weathered it all with the patience of a saint, a smile always on her face. These amazing women have taught me to love and value myself, while still showing consideration to others. They've truly shaped me into the woman I am today, and I couldn't be more thankful. These are just a few of the women that have influenced my life, but every woman is strong and beautiful in her own way. Although it was International Women's Day recently, women deserve to be treated with respect and care all year round. Everyday is another chance to let those women know just how special they are. Because they deserve it. Always.

Suffragists.

Hardworking farm hands.

Skilled auto mechanics.

Mothers that don’t wait for your father to come home.

This is the line of women I come from.

It feels good to be a woman-

To be strong,

To break down barriers,

To be successful in your own right.

We have a long way to go,

But my family paved my way.

Thank you, ladies.

We live behind the glory

The earth awards to men

Yet the final prize goes into

The hands of a strong woman

We live in the shadows

Of the masculine kind

Though females have to offer

What no man can find

We are daughters and moms

And can still fight wars

Our united strength can

Smash through closed doors

We are girls and ladies

Each elegant and strong

Our voices may be mellow

But they will hear our song