To strong women. Everywhere.

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I took a 3:00 yin class today, and the male instructor welcomed his all-female class by wishing us a happy International Women’s Day. He shared with us that growing up, his mother taught him how strong women are and how now, as an adult, he continues to support and respect women and stand a little in awe of our incredible strength. He encouraged us to think about the strong women in our lives for the next hour and to set our intention on sending these women love during our practice.

At first of course I thought of my own strong mother, and I set my intention on sending her love. I also thought of myself, and the strength I’ve had to show in different ways over the years, and I sent myself some love too. But only 20 minutes or so into class, my intention jumped, really out of nowhere, to another mother, one I never had the opportunity to meet.

I started thinking of my Dad’s mom, my grandmother, who died when my Dad was only 9 years old. I thought of my Dad, and how he has always given me so much strength through his love and support. I couldn’t stop thinking about his mom and her love, and I starting crying so much onto my bolster, that the tears soaked right through the cushion and made a big wet, soppy spot where my head lay.

I never knew her but I owe so much to her. She gave me my Dad. She gave me my aunt Kris. I am sure she gave me, through my Dad, her strength too. So I sent her all my love and gratitude while I practiced on my mat today, and I felt like she sent me love right back. Which may be why I’m still crying.

Happy International Women’s Day to all of the amazing women in my life and the strong men and women we raise.

Namaste.