We recently attended a Bat Mitzvah for Emma, the daughter of our very dear friends Diane and Bruce.  It was a wonderful experience—watching a beautiful girl go through the rites of passage towards becoming a young woman.  The maturity Emma displayed was not an act—Emma is wise beyond her years.  Since Emma was 9 years old, in lieu of Birthday gifts she asked that supplies be donated to a local animal shelter, PAWS (Philadelphia Animal Welfare Society).  If she received money in her Birthday card, she would donate that too.  She has a kind soul and is a loyal daughter and friend to others.  Emma is only 13 years old yet she is truly inspiring in so many ways.

Inside the program was this wonderful poem called “Here’s to the Woman”.  The author is unknown.

HERE’S TO THE WOMAN

…who knows where she’s going

and will keep on until she gets there;

who knows not only what she wants from life

but what she has to offer in return…

HERE’S TO THE WOMAN

who is loyal to family and friends,

who expects no more from others

than she is willing to give;

HERE’S TO THE WOMAN

who guides and inspires

not by quoting others’ philosophies but by living her own good example;

who accepts both victories and disappointments with the same grace,

and who can rise above life’s challenges and move on…

HERE’S TO THE WOMAN

who gives the gifts of her thoughtfulness,

who shows her caring with a word of support,

her understanding with a smile;

a woman who brings joy to others just by being herself…

Now take a moment to let these words soak in.  Take out a pen and paper and answer the following questions:

  1. Do you have a clear vision of where you want to go and who you want to be in your lifetime?
  2. Will you keep going no matter what?
  3. Do you know how you want to give back to others?
  4. Are you a loyal friend and family member?
  5. Do you expect things from others and often end up feeling disappointed?
  6. Do you feel like you’re living the life YOU want to live—being who you really are?
  7. Are you proud of the way you treat others?
  8. Do you handle aggravating situations with control or anger?
  9. Do you bring joy to others by just being yourself?

Sadly, most of us spend more time and energy taking care of our “exteriors” while ignoring what’s going on the inside.  It’s so much easier to buy clothes and get a new haircut than it is to take the time to answer these questions—honestly and accurately.

Be Like Emma

Take the time to figure out who you are and where you’re going.  Embrace your true self and be proud of the way you treat others every day.

Emma brings joy to others by simply being herself and you can do the same.  Please share your story about an amazing woman (or girl) you know.  We would love to hear it.

Be Yourself and Smile,

Molly