Encouraging our Women

Yesterday afternoon it was the bicycle, last week it was the voice during a presentation.  It is all about confidence, confidence building in women. In particular the confidence of my daughters, ages 8 and 28 (about to turn 29).

Exasperated with my youngest child’s frustration level, I turned and head toward the house, the dog yawned, I leaned down, cupped her tiny face in my cold hands and said “I agree, I totally agree.”  I went back to my patio cleaning chore and thought about how many hours I have spent in the past month encouraging these young women, instilling confidence, “You can do this.”  “You did so well today”  “You’re the best in the office.” 

The age span between my girls is huge, 21 years and yet they both still need Coach to stand on the side lines and cheer them on.  Why?  I ask myself and the broom… why?

My boys don’t seem to need it as much. In fact when it is offered, most often the response is a “I know Mom” with an air of I-already-know-this swirling under their breath.  Growing up they didn’t need much encouragement to try new physical activities. They head for task put in front of them full speed, confidence high, no “what ifs”.

Sometimes it’s their sheer physical strength that leads confidently into the task.  I have to concede that men are physically stronger, usually taller than woman by their genetics.  But there is something more.  They are treated differently from day one. By their fathers, teachers, coaches, society in general and then there is this boy’s club code.  Is it a secret club? (I only suspect)  I know if I ask my sons will just shake their heads, laugh at me and leave the room.  But I do wonder.   ????

Women are still trying to play catch up, break to code, make new rules.  Everywhere we go.  My youngest daughter is on a co-ed soccer team, Taller than any of the boys, yet holds back to give the little boys a chance to kick the ball.  “Stop” I tell her. “It’s your Ball” My Oldest Daughter is taking the lead on a huge project at work but worries that her voice is too much like a little girls.  “Talk to them like you talk to me when you are mad” I tell her.   Be firm and decisive like any boy/ man, something I tell both girls. 

And there you have it.  I am encouraging my girls to fight their way into the boys club, continue to make progress and show the world that we are all people no matter our gender.  Education and Encouragement for  all Women. 

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month:  Remind all Women to get their Mammograms.  If they cannot afford Mammograms they should go to their local Health Departments where programs are available to assist them.   BE PART OF THE CURE!