When I was a child, I watched Linda Carter on TV transform into Wonder Woman. I was mesmerized by her long, dark hair, her gold belt, lasso, and fabulous outfit. As a young impressionable girl, I found an inspiring heroine who was strong and fierce and could save the world.
The Everyday Wonder Woman
I recall watching the show with my mother one day. She smiled and told me that she was Wonder Woman too. I didn’t understand what she meant at the time, but as I grew up I realized that she was the real superstar. She raised me and my two brothers while working evening shifts at the hospital to ensure she could spend time with us after school and help with homework. She drove me to ice skating practice at 5:00 am for years – in addition to dance and piano lessons.
She prepared my favorite meals, read with me every night and made time for private talks about friends and which boy I had
Navigating the World As a Mother, Career Woman and Friend
I didn’t realize how much work it really takes to be a woman and navigate our hectic world until I became a mother. The pursuit of work-life balance when taking into consideration parenthood, trying to exercise, maintain friendships and family relationships, giving back to others and preserving that piece of yourself that makes you “you” can be a real struggle.
There was a tough time in my life when I had to take a break from medical practice and certain relationships to focus on mine and my child’s needs. It would be for a short period of time but necessary. At that moment in my life, I chose to focus on healing, taking care of myself and being the best parent I could. I definitely did not feel like that fictional heroine that I grew up watching but it was the right decision for me everyone at that time.
We Are All “Wonder Woman” In Our Unique Way
| As women, we want to take care of everyone around us while trying to conquer every task presented to us. I often put pressure on myself to accomplish so much and do it all well. I have learned that I do not need to be perfect and I can only do my best. Two years ago my daughter asked that we both dress up as Wonder Woman for Halloween. As I put on the costume, I felt strong and confident. I was ready to conquer the world. She told me that I didn’t need to be Wonder Woman. I just needed to be her “momma”. This is dedicated to all of the strong, self-sacrificing women in the world who nurture the people in their lives, work tirelessly at succeeding in their careers, give back to their communities and live their lives with passion, confidence, humor, grace, vulnerability Happy International Women’s Day! |