March is Women’s History Month and I want to honor a few women. These women have the spirit that helped me be who I am today and impacted my life in many ways.
Most of you know my sister, Glenda (Peggy), is my best friend. Although, it’s just us two girls in the Super Cooper bunch, we refer to each other as “Favorite Sister”. Peggy has taught me a lot through my life such as make-up, dressing and hair tips. We love shopping together and just hanging out. She has given me great advice over the years but the most valuable was, “Shari, learn how to make yourself happy.” I heeded to her advice and I am happier now than I have ever been. I Don’t know if you have a sister, but if you do, I hope she’s as good as mine because she is awesome!
Do you have that one friend that has been with you most of your life? My friend, Debbie Pack, is that person. She has been with me for most of my life. She was my teacher when I attended United Cerebral Palsy of Dayton Head Start program. Debbie was also the director of Camp Variety which was a summer camp for kids with disabilities. Talk about a supportive mother figure. Debbie was a great advocate who motivated you to believe you could do anything despite your disabilities. To this day, she keeps up with me frequently commenting on my editorials, Facebook, and blog posts. Debbie truly helped shaped me into the woman I am today.
Often you need someone you can just vent too, and Margie Wehner is my person. Margie and I met at work over 20 years ago and are still friends. Margie shows up to support me in the good times and the rough times. What I like the most about my friend, when something is messed up, she’ll say it. Often you just need someone to say what is needed; then you can look at the situation for what it is and move on. Margie received her degree and became a speech pathologist during our friendship. I’ve had many speech pathologists in my lifetime and to know my good friend is one, brings me great joy. I know she is helping many individuals find their voice.
My cousin, Linda Watters, is a woman of power and a great motivator! Being the youngest of the Super Coopers it took time for me to have my own connection with her. Linda retired from John Hancock as the Vice President of Government Relations. Although retired, she remains on their board. I love talking to her about her travels around the world and her upcoming adventures. Linda motivates me to reach for the top. She is the true definition of accomplishment and amazingness of a black woman.
Women are the backbone of the nation. The world wouldn’t be what it is today had it not been for strong women pushing to make it better. Be sure to honor the women in your life who’ve impacted you, for without their support, you wouldn’t be who you are. You know, as the saying goes, Girls Rule The World.
YOU are a super woman, too! Great blog, again!
Thanks Kim,
Always good hearing from you!