Celebrate Her

Some of my earliest childhood memories are rooted in the loving and guiding hands of strong women in my life.

I was raised in a family brimming with dynamic women — my mother, sister, grandmothers, aunts and cousins. These women all encouraged me to pursue my passions and offered never-ending support throughout my life. 

Today, more than ever, I consider myself blessed to have very caring, nurturing and incredible women, on both a personal and professional level, in my circle. I am surrounded and supported by many female relatives, incredible ladies on my work team and by best friends that may not be related to me by blood but are my sisters, nonetheless. For these reasons I’m thrilled to share with you this month’s issue, The Women’s Issue, offering well-deserved praise and applause to inspiring women breaking ground and touching lives in our community and beyond.

Take, for example, our cover feature “Jill Of All Trades” (page 64) on Jill Martin. One of the most beloved faces on morning television, you’ll learn about Martin’s rise to fame, her passion for sports, as well as her connection to South Florida. She seems to do it all yet is keenly aware of the importance of keeping things real. 

As women, many of us tend to mire ourselves down with feelings of shame, vulnerability and anger, using these emotions more as an anchor impeding our self-growth than anything else. Best-selling author and researcher Brené Brown teaches us the important lesson that acknowledging such emotions can lead to personal success. Our piece “The Art Of Being” (page 76) explores Brown’s suggestion to nurture and accept ourselves in order to become healthier and stronger individuals and leaders.

Movies centered around a group of women banding together through life’s ups and downs have always served as uplifting celebrations on the unique power and benefits of female relationships. (Remember “Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2” and that gorgeous location on the Greek island of Santorini?) Our piece “That’s What Friends Are For” (page 82) takes the story of sisterhood off the big screen and into real life, showcasing groups women can join in South Florida while simultaneously sharing insight on how these sisterhoods have touched their members and become a vital and enriching part of their lives. 

If you want advice on the go, I highly suggest you turn to page 70, where you’ll find “Listen Up!,” an informative piece about podcasts for women by women covering a wide scope of topics from finance to divorce.

I’ll end by expressing gratitude — for all the women in my life, for my wonderful readers and for all that helped pave the way for the opportunities we have in 2021.  As women, we know how far we’ve come and are forever excited and hopeful for the distance yet to travel. To quote Helen Keller, an inspiring woman who overcame unimaginable obstacles, “Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement.”

Enjoy the issue, and all the fantastic women in it — and in your life!

Best,

Linda L. Behmoiras 

linda@bocaratonobserver.com