“We’re celebrating life. It don’t matter who you are. If you’ve been working hard, give yourself a round of applause. Bravo!”
“Bravo” by Ledisi
The night of March 1st I click-clacked my way in a pair of nude heels with a black wagon bearing two containers, a bottle of water, and a white elegantly designed card box. Walking through the door, I put the early part of the day behind me and focused on the event that’d be taking place in about an hour—an event honoring women. March is Women’s History Month, and this event’s theme of “You are worth celebrating” stuck with me. After a night of selling books, decorating a delicious cake, and even reciting original poetry, I could not shake the idea and the magnitude of such a simple statement: celebrating the person that you are. Celebrating commemorates a happy or significant day or event. Celebrations often take place for monumental events like birthdays, weddings, graduations, etc. Oftentimes with the hustle and bustle of everyday living or just the standard expectation of day-to-day tasks, we can overlook moments to applaud and honor. However, it’s important to not only celebrate the big things but also the small things. Being where you are in the present moment is something worth celebrating. You have overcome. You have endured. You have accomplished so much, and that should not be overlooked. So, in honor of Women’s History Month, I have included a poem and Ledisi’s song ‘Bravo’ as a reminder to celebrate life, the person you are, and who you’re becoming. Happy celebrating!
You are Worth Celebrating
A bouquet of red roses and a crown adorned with shiny jewels—
these symbols engraved on a silver medal are just for you.
See, I believe in giving one her flowers while she can still receive—gifts she is due.
I want you to realize that you, Queen, are seen—
The epitome of royalty mixed with survivor and strength.
A lady about her business but enveloped in grace as she extends kindness and compassion.
She’s a woman driven by passion—operating in her purpose.
Clothed in beauty, she fulfills her duty with diligence.
She’s not always in the forefront with a spotlight right on her.
No need to know her name—just know that she fulfills her calling,
And God showers her with favor and so many good things.
Yet, there are times where it’s not seen.
Sometimes she is bogged down by responsibilities,
Or is pulled in so many directions,
Or too busy taking care of others.
Her focus, therefore, is on moving forward with plans and expectations—
Barely taking a moment to revel in the progress
Or truly appreciate the process of how far she’s come.
Stepping out of your comfort zone is no easy feat.
Stepping into uncharted territory can be daunting or even terrifying.
Surviving takes strength, perseverance, and determination.
Whatever your hurdle or trial or mountain you had to overcome,
The reality is that you made it, you have won.
So, I must echo Ledisi’s words and encourage you to
“Give yourself a round of applause. Bravo!”
It can be so easy to not see those wins;
With so much put on one’s shoulders, it’s no wonder that she’s all work and no play,
But this piece is a moment for you to stop and think…
Breathe. Reflect. Then, celebrate every single accomplishment no matter how big or small.
Because every milestone was worth it,
Every effort is valuable.
Every sacrifice is appreciated.
Your investment in the current version of you deserves recognition and applause.
Even if no one else acknowledges it, I need you to see it.
Recall the late nights,
The tedious work,
The overcome obstacles.
Then, pause for a moment or more to celebrate.
Indulge in a sweet treat, go on a shopping spree, receive a relaxing massage,
Or go out with friends—whatever way that makes you feel honored and appreciated
Because you deserve it.
Even in the midst of trying times, please do not lose sight of who you are:
Fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14),
More than a conqueror,
Valuable,
Loved,
Important.
So, this medal is for you—a token to help you remember to celebrate who you are.
This is for every mother, teacher, entrepreneur, speaker, trailblazer, trendsetter, history maker—for every woman.
No matter what,
Never forget that you are worth celebrating. © Andréa Hardaway 2024
Happy Women’s History Month! 😊
Andréa Hardaway 