International Women’s Day

This blog is in honour of International Women’s Day. When I think about who I am today, I realize how lucky I have been to be surrounded by such inspiring women.

My grandmothers were both widowed at a young age and were left to raise their families on their own (one had six children, the other had eight!). My incredible mother instilled in me the importance of both strength and vulnerability. I’ve watched my sister follow her dreams, singing and performing for audiences all over the country and now raising her beautiful family. My two sisters-in-law are both a force to be reckoned with! I have always admired their strength.  My amazing mother-in-law has shown me that love is not limited to just those who share the same DNA. 

I have countless aunts and cousins who, simply by being themselves, inspire their families, friends and co-workers.

And my wife. I knew Katie was a kind, smart, funny, and compassionate person when I married her. She seemed to me to be a hard worker who got what she wanted, and I admired that about her. But once we had kids, I watched as she became this remarkable leader and role model for our little girls, and that has been one of my greatest joys.

I always wanted a daughter. I could never have imagined I’d be so lucky to have two daughters. They have changed my life in more ways than one. They’ve shifted my perspective on the world, and on my understanding that the world needs them as the powerful, brave and intelligent girls they are.

Days like International Women’s Day gives me hope as a father because I see how the world, we are living in is changing for the better.  I am proud to be a parent to the next generation of female leaders who will lead the way in continuing to create change. 

 Happy International Women’s Day!

-       Jesse