My daughter was given a compliment on her “strong and beautiful” singing voice while we were at the park. I love woman-to-woman encouragement.
I also worry about what my girl may do one day when a woman is not so kind. I remind her that no matter what someone says, good or bad, she must believe in herself first and not let others’ opinions control her life.
Why can’t I listen to my own advice?
Why is it that if someone says something nasty enough times, we start to believe it? Your glorious self could get one nasty comment in a sea of positives, and the one that will stick is the negative.
As a yoga teacher, I always tell my students, “The only person you can control is yourself.” This statement is true, but it doesn’t mean it’s easy to accept.
When I reached my 40s, I encountered a person trying to convince me that I was not worthy of love. I’ve received threats. I’ve been screamed at. I’ve been told that I’m a terrible person and mother. All of this is coming from another woman. Everyone tells me to be the bigger person and not acknowledge her volatility.
It’s hard being the bigger person.
I recently heard news about the passing of Marian Robinson, Michelle Obama’s mother. Her integrity seemed unshakeable, and her daughter, the First Lady, mirrored that with so much grace. PMC’s Katie Brand reviewed Michelle Obama’s book, “The Light We Carry.” The book stood on my nightstand long after I read it as a reminder to live life in a way that is true.
I love Michelle Obama’s words, “When they go low, we go high.”
Just because someone makes a nasty comment doesn’t make it true. I’m strong, loved, and perfect as I am.
My mom always said that children soak up the world like sponges, constantly observing and learning. I want my little girl to see her mom as a woman who lifts other women up.
I know that one day, she will be the woman in the park who lights up another woman’s day with her kind words.
