I often say,“I’m blessed to work with women.” One of my favorite pastimes is learning about women who’ve impacted history and hearing their specific words of wisdom. I’d like to share some of my favorites with you.
“It takes as much energy to wish as it does to plan.” - Eleanor Roosevelt
Did you know Eleanor Roosevelt wrote a daily column from 1936-1962 similar to our modern day blogs?! I’ve shared the link below. She was one remarkable lady!
“Failure is impossible.” – Susan B. Anthony
Another one of my favorites, Ms. Anthony was an abolitionist, education reformer; suffragist, women’s rights advocate, temperance worker and a labor advocate who initiated “equal pay for equal work.” While the temperance thing is not my personal favorite, she was a driving force in women being able to vote.
“You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated. In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats, so you can know who you are, what you can rise from, how you can still come out of it.” – Maya Angelou
Some of my favorite more thoughtful quotes come from Maya Angelou. But, maybe I’m getting a little too heavy here. So, how about something from my favorite female comedian?
“Procrastination isn’t the problem, it’s the solution. So, procrastinate now, don’t put it off.” – Ellen DeGeneres
Granted, Ellen’s delivery probably makes this funnier, but I really do enjoy her wit.
At UndercoverWear, I’m supposed to inspire and lead women on in life, so I need someone who has braved the unknown – like the first aviatrix to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean…
“Adventure is worthwhile in itself.” – Amelia Earhart
Moving on to a female icon from this century – a woman who makes me feel young and dynamic; someone with excitement and flair…
“I’m just trying to change the world one sequin at a time.” – Lady Gaga.
Now that I can relate to! Thanks, Gaga.
Getting serious again for a moment. While speaking in sound bytes is great, let’s remember that actions often speak louder than words. The aforementioned ladies have both, but let’s take a moment to think about women who have changed things for all of us just by doing…
Margaret Sanger was the first Birth Control advocate. While she certainly did her fair share of questionable actions, she’s a fascinating woman with a great story and amazing dedication. She and her sister were jailed many times!
Then there’s Sally Ride – the first US female astronaut – and Judith Reznick, the NASA astronaut who died in the space shuttle Challenger disaster. Let’s not forget Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords who was shot in the head by a crazy radical while she was doing her best to help America.
All this leaves me thinking, “What do I do?” I sell lingerie and romance accessories; I don’t take care for orphans or feed the homeless. I don’t belong to the Peace Corp, nor have I volunteered in Afghanistan. I haven’t run for US President (yet), nor can I attempt to fly into outer space.
But in my own small way, I do believe I have done my best to break through barriers for women. I’ve always fought for fairness and equality in the workplace. I’ve argued with everyone from my next-door neighbor to Gloria Steinem saying that women can be fierce competitors in the boardroom and passionate lovers in the bedroom.
I hope that through UndercoverWear and the plethora of things I do below radar have had a positive impact on women. These acts and my son will be my legacy!
So, remember whatever you chose to do in life, wherever you choose to go – may you go forth with Eleanor’s wisdom, Susan’s determination, Maya’s thoughtfulness, Ellen’s humor, Amelia’s bravery and of course, Gaga’s excitement!
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