Inherent Power of Women

Lead Photo Credit: Katrina Hubbard

Our tenet this month discusses the innate abilities of women and the power we have in ourselves, our homes, and the world around us. While each of us carries the same potential, our lives reflect the beautiful variety of ways we can influence our world.

Women of every age carry with them an inherent power. I’ve seen in my oldest daughter a natural kindness and desire to befriend those around her. She has never been timid about making friends and naturally seeks to lift their burdens. My younger daughter’s strengths are different, though equally clear. She has a desire to create and is constantly using that creativity with others in mind. She’s frequently drawing notes for friends, making bracelets for teachers, and coming up with new inventions for her family (and even the dog!) to try out.

I recently had a discussion with a friend about a former teacher who influenced us both. It was fun to reminisce how the teacher had inspired us both in similar ways. We agreed that she had a gift for teaching students by connecting with them and demonstrating her passion for the subject. My friend and I both decided to study more about healthcare and science, inspired by our teacher’s dedication.

I could go on like this about every woman I’ve met – each with her own inherent power, demonstrated in beautifully unique ways. It is wonderful to see it in others, but often so much harder to see it in ourselves. As women, we are faced with pressures constantly. We feel the pressures of society and the world around us, in our homes, and within our own hearts and minds. Often it feels as though I am waging a battle against perceived expectations, against my own anxiety, and against the ever-present piles of laundry. I am inspired by women around me sharing their own success stories. I feel strengthened by connecting with friends and family on personal issues. One such connection is my therapist, a woman with an inherent power to care about and to strengthen her clients, who aids me in my journey through hardships.

What a joy it is to discover our unique abilities! I find nothing brings me more contentment than using my talents to brighten someone else’s day. I love to connect with others by sharing food (especially desserts), and I have yet to find someone whose day was made worse by a surprise cupcake delivery. Crocheting blankets for friends’ babies is particularly fulfilling for me, as it gives me time to quietly reflect on the friendship as I create the gift for them. I find so much joy in meeting up with longtime friends with only the goal of reconnecting with one another. Connecting with others, especially women, fills my soul and brightens my world.

Perhaps we can use the examples of others to find our own inherent power. We can search ourselves for strength to carry us through our trials. Along the way, we can find ways to help those around us in their own journey.

Who is an example of a powerful woman in your life?

What strength do you feel inside of your heart?

How can you use your individuality to influence your environment?