Today I wanted to write a thank you to the five most inspiring women in my life. They have mentored me and guided me through every phase of my life and today, I’m hoping to share a little bit of what I have learned from them.
To the Creative One
Decorating life isn’t frivolous and superficial, nor is it a waste of time and money. Your artistic abilities make me jealous and inspire me on a daily basis. And what’s even more impressive is that you showed me how to use the things I’m good at for good. From homemade jewelry to individualized paintings, you’ve done more with your hobby than most people can do with their careers.
To the Hardworking One
You’re a workaholic, badass boss lady. And you’re not ashamed of that. More than anything, you’ve demonstrated by walking the walk that you’re not afraid to set your sights to the sky and fight for what you want. Not only have you shown me time management, and organization, and how important it is to fulfill promises, but your extraordinary work ethic is something that I can translate into every aspect of my life, not just my future career.
To the Passionate One
You’ve taught me over and over that to speak my mind and to follow my dreams is important, and nothing to be ashamed of. I know first hand the challenges of doing what I love regardless of the circumstances. As a double-major in French and English Literature, I hear the stereotypical prophecy that all my degree will buy me is a career as an Applebee’s waitress, but you reminded me that it’s much better to be the ‘struggling artist’ and happy than financially thriving and miserable.
To the Independent One
You remind me every day of my life that I am important, and I am enough. I don’t need anyone to complete me because I am whole by myself. What’s more incredible is that you’ve taught me to be unapologetic about that very fact, and to be bold and confident in who I am. Thank you. Enough said.
To the Wise One
You’ve had one of the toughest jobs: teaching me to think before reacting, and to assess before responding to situations is a valuable skill that is worth practicing. Though I’m not especially hot-headed, I am emotional, and in instances of conflict, often, I speak before I think. And you helped me to realize that. More than anything, you’ve shown me by example that to take a few breaths before answering is essential. And your maturity means everything to me.
I’m beyond grateful for having these five women in my life. I don’t know where I would be without them. But the most impressive of all of this, is that each of these women is a part of me, and I’m working to become more of them each and every day. Remember, each of these women is inside of you too.