The Strength of a Woman

The strength of a woman
Is tested by her mistakes and down falls.
Then by her ability to correct them,
Guided by humility and grace.
This woman is you.

The strength of a woman
Is proven by her decisions.
Those times she says no when she wants to say yes,
Reprimands instead of comforts,
Remains steadfast though it is easier to give in.
This woman is you.

The strength of a woman
Is measured by her joy.
A smile for independence and accomplishment,
A hug for vulnerability and love,
A complete person filled with peace.
This woman is you.

The strength of a woman
Is challenged by her risks.
Traveling the world without fear.
Raising her children and trusting them.
Loving her spouse through all the difficulties.
This woman is you.

The strength of a woman
Is visible in her daughter.
A mother looks into her daughter’s eyes; her own blue eyes,
Fearing she may have failed,
Wondering if she said no too many times
Hoping peace follows her daughter,
Wanting her to take her own risks.
This woman is you.

The strength of a woman
Is learned from her mother.
Seeing the beauty that comes from self-worth.
Realizing happiness is built on confidence.
Discovering that respect is earned by our actions.
This woman is me.

-- a gift for my mother