MARCH IS WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH

MARCH IS WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH! We celebrate the incredible accomplishments and achievements of women who have contributed to our history, culture and society, as well as the strides made by women today. Our ancestors and role models paved the way for us to excel, strive for excellence and pursue our dreams and aspirations. Harriet Tubman and Eleanor Roosevelt are just two examples of the multitude of women who fought for freedom, equal rights and fair treatment.

My psychology practice of 30 years has always had a focus on women's empowerment ˗“the process of becoming stronger and more confident, especially in controlling one's life and claiming one's rights.” In a historical context, it means not allowing oppression or silencing. Long before the "Me Too" movement, I have inspired women to use their strength, power and voice to refuse to allow anyone to harass or disrespect them. As a psychologist, I have witnessed this oppression too often and am deeply rewarded with facilitating the transformation of women from victim to victor. I won't directly quote what I tell my young adult daughter, but I expect her to use her emotional, intellectual and physical strength, if ever in a situation where she is mistreated.

From a present-day perspective, I absolutely love the Serena Williams Nike commercial which defines the totality of women. We own our compassion, our fight and our emotionality. We also own our mistakes. It is deplorable when someone attempts to judge or criticize another woman’s journey. “First take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your 'sister's' eye.” (Matthew 7:5)