What “She” represents is humanity! Maybe on this date, the 8th of March being International Women’s Day, we would recall the love, faith, dignity, diversity, hope and grace that women embody. Women who brought faith and charisms to us, multi-dimensional development in health, education, social services and spirituality, can never be forgotten.
In a world teeming with war-torn countries; increased poverty levels; substance abuse; child labour and malnutrition, women have sued for what promotes peace, togetherness, end to wars and armed conflict, socio-political stability, economic justice, homes for the homeless, employment opportunities and scholarships, compassion and solidarity. Do we call these women the emblem of “courage and hope”? Yes!
Likewise, we recognise men and young people who work in solidarity with women and girls bridging the gap of inequalities; promoting anti-trafficking initiatives; training and building capacities for women and girls; providing poverty reduction programmes; access to quality education with educational materials; quality and affordable healthcare services; sanitation and hygiene, nutrition and psycho-social wellbeing and advocacy and holistic development. Since we are one common humanity, we share in her blessings, tenderness and fragility.
Still on Women’s Day celebrations, we say thank you to all the people of good will who share positively in the lives of women especially in their everyday challenges. Notably, to the Religious Sisters of Charity dedicated to the Service of the Poor and actively helping women regain their dignity, to have a voice in society and reuniting trafficked victims to their families. May the “tool” of promoting kindness, dignity and hope transcend to every corner of the world in mending the wounds of the broken, especially in war-afflicted areas, and the economically deprived and homeless.
As we celebrate Women’s Day, may the world know the beauty that humanity offers when love, hope and dignity form the centre stage of our decisions and being. So, ‘go on in faith and let all do their own little best’ (Sayings of Venerable Mary Aikenhead, 16th June 1846).
Sr. Gloria Ozuluoke RSC
