International Women's Day

So today is International Women's Day. I'm never quite sure what to do with this. I'm no better than any other human because of my gender, nor am I any worse. There are many men that I respect and admire, as there are numerous women. If I have a skill set or a degree, I prefer to be recognized, or if the need arose, to be hired on that basis, not on the basis of my gender. Please understand me; I love being a woman! I had the incomparable privilege of bearing children and watching them grow. I bring a unique perspective to our marriage, one that (usually) complements my husband's take on life. I am celebrated every day in the fact that I'm entrusted with a large portion of the business' work, I'm consulted by numerous people for my take on issues (including by my husband), and I love being me. I don't need special treatment to feel validated. I'm validated by the fact that I'm created in the image of God, my screw ups have been forgiven by that same perfect God, and I have a quirky set of talents. 

Have I been abused? Yes. I refuse to allow that to define me, though. The abuse says everything about the abuser and not a thing about me. If you've been abused and my story will help you, then I'll share it. Be prepared, though, my emphasis will be victory (now; let's talk).

Have I been respected and validated? Yes. By God, by others and by me. When I say, "By me," it's a choice I've made. It's not the primary emphasis of my life, though. 

I've also been blessed to be married to a man that I believe needs to be celebrated every bit as much as I do. He's a gentleman, works as hard as I do, encourages me in my walk with God, helps with Ryan's care, works hard at our business and praises me for my part in it, and is well respected in the community. He's my hero. If you have all day, I'll tell you about him, my sons, my brothers-in-law, my cousins, uncles, father-in-law, friends... and the list goes on.

I could also name just as many females who have been unkind to me, especially in my younger years. We are no less abusive when we gossip, judge people based on their appearance, or make snide remarks about his size or inability to perform. We can rant about "evil men" and get away with it, because of course, everyone knows they are. Wrong! Men are God's gift to us. Do they always act that way? No. Neither do we. 

We're equal. Perhaps the one we need to convince is "me". Perhaps... perhaps... we can do that by not straining to catapult ourselves above where we perceive men to be. If we want equal pay, get the training and do equal work (not work of "equal value"). If we want equal respect, maintain a zero tolerance policy of anything but that. If someone puts us down, male, female or otherwise, that's on them. It says nothing about us. I choose not to be defined by unfairness, perceived or real. I get the feeling that much of the celebration today is straining to be something we only dream of being. I'm fine, thanks. Already there.