Funny how the world sees "real women. . ."

Evidenced by all the Real Housewives of. . . shows which seem to be overtaking our televisions, it appears that the world believes we should all be wealthy, pampered, enviable, catty, curvaceous, gorgeous, and more. While we may be gorgeous, most of us are not rich or spoiled or even catty. We are ~ simply put ~ real.

The idea for this blog came after watching a few of those real housewives shows and realizing just how skewed the views of everyday life can be through the eyes of these women. Particularly to those of us in the trenches, working day-in-day-out to take care of ourselves, our children, our parents, our spouses/partners. Those of us who are out there earning a living, who may be dealing with catastrophic events or troubled children or medical issues or partner concerns.

This is a call to all women everywhere who live everyday lives and who want to simply do their best as they love all, laugh often, and live fully. Let us unite with our whole heart and soul, with humanity and grace, with vigor and hope. We are women and we are thankful to be so!



Monday, July 25, 2011

My Monday Hero ~ Terrific, Tremendous Tracy!

Tracy, an absolute every day hero, is my cousin and I am thrilled to be related to her! Throughout her life she has had the ability to make me laugh to the point of tears, cry so hard I start laughing, and always. . .always helps me better understand the humanity around me.


This woman has lived more lifetimes in her one than most of us can imagine. She carries with her the tenderest of hearts, and at the same time she is tenacious, determined, and persevering when tackling a problem which needs solving. A natural performer with an incredible voice, she has overcome so much ~ most recently a serious cancer scare ~ doing so truly with the effervescence and love of life you see in her photos! 


There was one particularly difficult time in my life while living in the Rocky Mountains when I was traveling south and north on Interstate 15 several times a month for professional reasons. While on the freeway, I would pass the exit which would take me directly to Tracy's home; I would sometimes stop to visit her and her sister, Cristi. 


While I did not see her as often as I would have liked, and despite Tracy not being aware of the seeming insurmountable trials I was facing, I felt an unbelievable sense of acceptance and well-being just knowing she was there. As I think about that now, tears filter to the surface, as this was one of the great blessings during a bleak episode in my life. 


No matter the problem, no matter the anxiety, no matter the battle, Tracy has always, consistently, regularly been there with pure love, unconditional acceptance, and needed reassurance. She never required details, she only had to know that I needed her. No questions, no demands, no expectations.


Tracy, dearest friend and cousin, you are and have been my lifetime hero. You are a beacon of light and hope and dreams. You instill within me a desire to be more like our Savior, Jesus Christ. Your example is one which women throughout the world would do well to emulate. I love you, I treasure our friendship, I cherish the person you are, and I am ever so grateful to be related to you ~ you are a true hero!



1 comment:

  1. That black & white of Tracy is priceless. You did a good job of describing this wonderful cousin :)

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