In 1977 the UN officially recognized March 8th as International Women's Day--a day to honor and celebrate women's political, economic and social achievements.
I consider myself lucky to have grown up during a time when a girl's life was not destined solely for the home. My dreams of being a professional dancer, singer, basketball player, architect, journalist, accountant, lawyer, photographer, film maker and doctor were never put down but always celebrated (no matter how outrageous the career choice got). I have to thank my parents for never allowing me to compromise my dreams due to the harsh realities of gender or race I would eventually have to face. They taught me no dream was unattainable as long as I was willing to work hard for it.
Thanks to strong women like my mother, aunts and grandmothers, I grew up watching living examples of successful, educated women who really had it all. Of course, later on I have come to learn that all did not come without significant sacrifices. And it is because of their sacrifices that I am sitting here today, writing this post, living out my childhood dreams of life and work in New York City.
Though, it is only one day a year, that should not ever stop us from celebrating the women who paved the way for us.