Celebrating International Women's Day

Just 2 more days before the world commemorates Women’s Day.  International Women’s Day has been observed since the early 1900’s.  Over a century has passed since that faithful day but a number of women all over the world are still experiencing inequality.  In some countries, women still don’t have voting and education rights.  There are double standards when it comes to pay and promotion. Women all over the world have stepped up and demonstrated their capabilities and have done their best to alleviate the sufferings of women; but more work has to be done.

This 2013 as we celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8, I would like to veer away from the traditional way of honoring women with gift giving and flowers.  I would like to honor women by listing some of the most successful women who have made an impact not only on the world economy, politics, and sports but most especially on their children and family.

Margaret Thatcher or the Iron Lady, the only woman Prime Minister of Britain, is well-known for her strong leadership and uncompromising politics.  Indira Gandhi, India’s first female head of government instituted several reforms in socialist India. Corazon Aquino, the first female president of the Philippines (and of Asia) is most acclaimed with the People’s Power Revolution which brought the downfall of the dictator, Ferdinand Marcos. Aung San Suu Kyi is Burma’s democracy icon. Eleanor Roosevelt, the longest-serving first lady of the United States is highly praised for her works in the field of human rights.

Marie Curie, a Nobel Prize winner, discovered radioactive elements which form the base for nuclear technology.

Amelia Mary Earhart was the first female (and second person ) to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean.

Mother Teresa, the mother of all people most especially of the poor and less fortunate, is an epitome of love, peace and compassion.

The list could go on and on using the power of Google but these names first came to mind as I contemplated on  how women have contributed to our society.  In fact, every woman who has given birth deserves  an applause because one way or the other she has made her contribution by raising up children; children who are an integral part orf our society.

To all women, moms, single moms, kudos!