By DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills

Last week, we lost a remarkable and talented woman, Barbara Bush. She was the wife of President George H. W. Bush and mother of President George W. Bush. That says a lot about her special traits without mentioning a single other attribute. We’ve all been touched by her dynamic personality.

Of all Barbara Bush’s many accomplishments, I value most her work with the establishment of the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy. Perhaps it’s the writer in me who wants to communicate the written word to every person who has a deep need to read. She was spunky, out-spoken, courageous, and lovable. For certain, she will be missed by all who loved and respected her.

Honoring the Women Who Shaped Our Lives

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Barbara Bush’s passing caused me to think about the women in my life who’ve mentored me, the ones who’ve helped shape who I am today.

Courage
These women demonstrated strength in the middle of adversity. They convinced me I could be or do anything I wanted and to stand strong. Every day I attempt to emulate their mental and spiritual values. I remember a friend who suffered through cancer and later passed. She’s my hero.

Love
Some women in my life walked with unconditional love. Their deep-rooted affection didn’t have stipulations; it simply was. Love doesn’t judge, draw lines, or is based on race, culture, or beliefs. A dear friend always lets me know I’m loved. She has a listening ear, even if the problem is my own fault.

Faith-filled
These women lived their faith and demonstrated how to stand strong when the rest of world mocked God. They modeled how to pray and hold tight to my biblical beliefs. Two dear aunts who passed years ago inspired me to live a bold faith.

Wit
Some of the women in my life were blessed with wit and made me laugh. No matter how sad a situation, they lifted their chins and found the words to express appropriate humor. This is my sister. When I need to see the world outside myself, I talk to her.

Wisdom
Others possessed the gift of wisdom and shared their insights. From these women, I found a desire to strive to learn something new every day. They instilled in me that when I stop learning, I cease to breathe. A writing friend is blunt with knowledge and wisdom, and I treasure her honesty.

Pay it Forward

I want to be a woman who shares her life experiences with others. We all can be honored women when we think of others before ourselves.