I’m here to correct two common misconceptions: Strong women are not one size fits all, and you don’t have to be a feminist to be a strong woman. Strong women come in different forms: they can be actresses, doctors, waitresses, plumbers, mothers, lawyers, coaches, and cashiers. Strong woman can be shy and attentive, or sociable and bubbly. Strong women are the ones who manage to see the beauty in the world though which they have suffered. Strong women believe in the power of their own will, and inspire others to do and be better.
Strong women are found everywhere. They know what it means to be woman, and what it takes to be a strong one. They all embody certain characteristics that set them apart of the rest. Women–both students and professors here at Kenyon as well as iconic females throughout history–have a lot of important lessons teach us about what makes the strong woman:
1. Strong women have a voice
“The most courageous act is still to think for yourself. Aloud.” -Coco Chanel
Kelly Menzel 16’ says a strong woman “speaks for herself, loudly, and all the time. She never allows anyone to put words into her mouth or to assume that they can speak on her behalf. When you lose your voice, you lose your strength.” Strong women are never afraid to speak for themselves. A strong woman believes in herself and her own ability to create change. She voices her opinions, but is not harsh on others. She respects the beliefs and principles of others, and acts with kindness towards them.
2. Strong women have dignity
“No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.” -Eleanor Roosevelt
No matter the circumstance or situation, strong women appreciate themselves and what they have to offer the world. They operate with sureness even if they fail. They hold their heads high, knowing the power they have to make change. They have pure nerve and true grit in the face of adversity. To be a strong woman, you have to recognize that you are invincible. They endure; they suffer like everyone else. They are not weighed down by the gravity of their pride. But, they imagine and hope for a better tomorrow.
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3. Strong women stand up for what they believe in
“Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope or confidence.” -Helen Keller
Strong women aren’t always brave. In the words of Jessie J, “it’s ok not to be ok.” Strong women cry and feel alone sometimes, but they fight with all their might to rebound from setbacks. They don’t let anyone tell them they can’t do something. They have steel in their eyes. Strong women don’t believe it’s ever ok to make anyone else feel inferior. They acknowledge the mental fortitude necessary for everyday life, and act with outstanding courage.
4. Strong women are gracious
“We cannot direct the wind, but we can adjust the sails.” -Dolly Parton
To have true grace is to smile and be kind when others are not. The strong woman is poised, ready and sure. She loves fiercely, and with passion. She is accepting and patient. She wants everyone to feel important, recognized and exceptional, and knows just what to do to help others shine, because she knows how significant it is for someone to feel like they truly matter.
5. Strong women live
“As we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” -Marianne Williamson
Life is for the living, and a strong woman doesn’t live without whimsy or humor. She lives each day with fullness, growing and being herself. She inspires others to greatness because she so intensely believes in the power of her own mental fortitude. She does not see life as a game of obstacles, or as a river to cross. She sees life as what she herself will make of it.
In summation, every woman has an inner strength; it’s only a matter of finding its source and channeling its power.
[Photo Sources: Americancomeback.com, Fashion Diplomacy, SouthernBelleFest, Wikimedia Commons]