To celebrate #InternationalWomensDay, here are some motivational words of wisdom from just a few of the many inspiring women throughout history.
These women advocate equality, inclusion and disability awareness.
Above: Deaf-blind American author and political activist, Helen Keller (1880 – 1968).
Above: Rosa May Billinghurst (1875 – 1953), was a women’s rights activist known as the “cripple suffragette”. She suffered polio as a child and, as a result, was left unable to walk.
What International Women’s Day Means to Me
Light is often shone on independent career women and high-profile personalities; celebrities, public speakers and so-called ‘world changers’.
Of course, these women deserve our respect and applause. But I’d like to also draw attention to the “ordinary” every-woman.
These are the women we are not aware of. We don’t know their names or their stories. These are the women behind the scenes who just get on with life, however challenging.
The single mum’s.
Those living with debilitating conditions and struggle to get out of bed each morning.
Those caring for multiple family members, who don’t have the option to go on holiday or pursue a career.
Women who are relied upon by disabled children and elderly relatives, and have no support or recognition.
Many suffer and struggle in silence. They simply get on with their lives without any fuss or complaint. These women deserve to be celebrated too!
They play a vital role in society – one that takes endurance, tenacity, strength of character and sheer grit. It takes a special kind of person to achieve this.
So remember, you don’t need to change the world to deserve respect and recognition. Being loved unconditionally, appreciated and making a difference to just one person is EVERYTHING!
Women’s Day is an opportunity to take time to reflect on the many ways women deal with life.