While conducting research for this post I listened to video talks, read blog posts, and scrolled through many pictures. Then the thought crossed my mind “you have learned from and know many powerful women, write about them.” That is what I will do here, write about my experience with the women who have impacted my life the most. The picture posted is my mother, Jean, and grandmother, Juanita, who both represent the power I really would like to have. I named this blog using their initials and those of my father’s mother, and grandmother’s mother. All are women of power.

My mother and grandmother were born in an era when it was a blatant fact that the color of their skin represented a painful existence. The issues they had to face are unimaginable to me. Even with the current state of affairs in this country where true feelings are being exposed regarding racism due to #45’s constant opposition to equality for all.

My mother raised her children the best way she knew how. My parents were together for over 20 years when my father decided to leave his marriage and us; I was turning eight that year. They were not rich, but we lived in a house that my parents owned and there was always food to eat and clothes to wear. She was a powerful woman, very wise, and loved by many. She did her part and his, kept our house and worked two jobs. She taught us about respect, and integrity. She also let me know that I could do anything, nothing was stopping me.

The relationship my grandmother had with her daughter, my mother, was like a sister; they were very close. I won’t go into details about how they arrived here, however, certain circumstances they both experienced brought them to this place. They loved each other. My grandmother owned her home, with her husband. They had very little means, but managed to have a life worth living. These ladies, based on what I know about them, are the most powerful women I know. I keep them in the forefront of my mind as I embark on opportunities and privileges that were not available for them at the age I was when my career began. Sure, some may say that it was, but there were only a few who were integrated into the corporate world during their time, only a few.

The Power of a woman is within us all. Many have different circumstances such as lack of role models other than what they see on tv; no faith in themselves due to socioeconomic  status; someone told them that they had to be where they are and there is nothing else, and they believe it; some who have moved forward, feel fearful of reaching back to give a hand; there are also those who blame some women for their circumstances and believe they can get out if they tried; some don’t take the time to learn the stories of others, and judge their circumstances. The list goes on ad infinitum.

Other women with power that I know have mirrored my mother and grandmother by taking nothing and making something out of it. They have forged ahead because they knew that doing so was the order of that day and any other day for that matter. These women have children in their care, employment demands, and life situations that show up no matter what. Some go to school to learn more and earn more; others want to change their careers and venture into college all the while there are mouths to feed and a paycheck to earn. There are others who break barriers that have been established for women, and make a powerful noise when doing so.

Power in women is not something strange, it is what we as women have to tap into in order to get what we need and want. It is there for the taking, you can embrace your power. You will be amazed at what life has to offer. Believe it! Realize it! Seize it! Take your life to the next level with your power, it is all yours. Never let anyone tell you what cannot happen, because we all know what does happen when the power within is brought forward. See it all around you. Look at the examples of those who have done amazing things with their lives. They do what seemed impossible and make it possible.

The power of a woman is. Be your power. You deserve it.

Share your power story with us! Women need to hear from you!

Namaste’

Grace Sowtrue

The RJ Group