To the strong women in my life,

I consider myself extremely fortunate that I have so many of you in my life who I can look up to as strong role models. These incredible women, whom I admire for their strength and grace, did not become strong because they had it easy, but became strong because they experienced times where things would not work out. They trudged through storms and held the weight of the world on their shoulders. They would build enough courage to stand up, only to be knocked down again by life's punches. Every day they approached their challenges differently. Despite however difficult these challenges might have been, these women made sure that they rose to the occasion and handled them with class. While each one of these ladies are different than the next, they all have helped me become who I am today. Regardless of who you are or how long we've known each other: thank you.

I've learned from you and have spent countless hours quietly admiring your ability to walk with the strength and conviction that is needed to conquer the universe. You've shown me how important it is to wake up and choose strength every day. I've eagerly followed your prominent footsteps, hoping to make as much of an impact as you have on the world. Thanks to you, I dance a little crazier, sing a little louder, and walk a little taller.

You've shown me to ditch the glass slipper and help me embrace shattering the glass ceiling instead. Barriers are meant to be broken, and the ability to fearlessly rise to life's challenges is a lesson I would soon learn time and time again. Luckily, it was a lesson that you made sure I never had to endure alone. Whether I fell short of my goal or achieved success, you were there and always were willing to catch me and to push me further than I thought was possible.

You wake up and fight every single day for what you want out of life. Your voice is powerful and can move mountains. It has since lent volume to mine and has helped find my own voice. When there are times when the ground beneath you rattles you to the core, you stand firm. Because of you, I never gave up. You've taught me to love my quirks and to embrace my imperfections. The confidence you have in yourself has poured into me.

Thank you for being you, because you have inspired me to be me.

Love,
A Future Strong Woman