A Heartfelt Letter of Love to the Women of the Southern Tier

I want to share something, and I think you might relate. I am a crier, and I cry a lot. I've always been emotional, but since becoming a mom, my emotions have a mind of their own. They come out whenever they want; it's harder than ever to keep them in check.

The Other Side of Me

There's another side of me I usually keep hidden from most of the world. My husband calls it my "shut-down-brave-face" side. It's when a situation makes me feel so overwhelmed or hurt that I shut down and close myself off to process things alone. I know I can come across as distant or cold during these times. This side isn't my favorite, but it's a part of me. Sometimes it leads me into a dark place, filled with strong emotions. I know I'm not alone in this, and maybe you have your own "brave face" too.

Recent Challenges

Lately, I've been grappling with something that's caused a lot of inner turmoil. I didn't reach a complete shutdown, but I could feel myself starting to slip into a difficult place.

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Support from Incredible Women

Only a few people knew what I was going through, since I put on a brave face for everyone else. But my closest girlfriends saw through me. They gathered around me, offering support and love, and gently encouraged me to stand tall, let go, and soar. Their care reminded me how powerful it can be to let others in, even when it feels vulnerable.

A Simple Gesture, A Big Impact

On a particularly low day, one of my friends pulled a crown out of her bag and asked me to put it on. I thought she was joking, but she was completely serious. As odd as it felt, I went along with it. She looked at me and reminded me I didn't have to carry everything alone. It's okay to lean on friends and let them help share the load. That silly crown made me laugh and helped lift a little of the weight off my shoulders. Maybe we all need a reminder like that sometimes.

A Moment to Celebrate Ourselves

With International Women's Day being celebrated, I just want to offer a gentle reminder: whether you're a rocket scientist or the very best laundry folder in your building, you deserve celebration and recognition. Not just once a year, but every day. Just being here, just being you, is something worth honoring.

Celebrating Everyday Strength

I celebrate you: the women parenting alone, the ones juggling jobs, caring for loved ones, finding the courage to leave tough situations, fighting against illness, or simply working hard to let your voice be heard. Your strength is seen, and it's worth celebrating, in whatever form it takes.

For Those Still Searching

I want to especially acknowledge the girls, young and old, who haven't yet found their footing. The ones whose crowns may be a little askew. We all feel that way sometimes, even if nobody else knows. It's okay to have a moment of feeling down, but try not to stay there too long. If you can, seek out women who lift each other up, who share their strength when yours is running low. When you find them, cherish them.

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To the Crown Straighteners

To the crown straighteners who bring out the best in others with grace, compassion, and joy: I salute you. Thank you for making the world a little kinder.

With love,
Traci