When I was a kid, I thought being a “woman” was to act as one. Like wearing a skirt or dress; wearing high heels; acting like a lady; to be a mother; or, to be a wife.

I was always considered “one of the boys” and acting like a woman was vague. To be a woman is sometimes dictated by our society. When I climbed a tree, people around me would say: “Kababai mong tau”. Why can’t I? I am strong and I know I can. I wanted to be an architech but someone told me: “Ot panlalaki ing buri mung course?” Why not wear make up? I am ok with my face. Why not wear high heels? I prefer rubber shoes. I’m comfortable and more functional in rubber shoes. I love rock music too.

Then when you grow up and give your opinion, they would say: “Ali. Babai ka!” Does it make me less of a woman if my perspective is different and goes beyond the ordinary or what is dictated by society?

We are capable of doing great things. We can manage anything and calm the storm; we can spread love and kindness; we can serve and protect our country. We have the power to express our opinion and make significant contributions to society.

We can write our story and our struggles that can be a source of inspiration. We have our own roles. It doesn’t matter whether you are a housewife or an undergraduate. A doctor or a secretary. A market vendor or a manager. Whether you are good in making money or being beautiful is your expertise. We can always be great and make a difference.

We should help each other instead of competing or outsmarting each other.

Let us be reminded not to be too busy making money or a name. I’m not saying it is wrong. But we should know our purpose is to serve God. Whoever we are and whatever we have become, we can always be warriors of Christ.

We were not born to compete with other women or outsmart men. We were born to empower, to be stewards. To love and be inspirations.

We have our own time line. We should continue educating ourselves; never stop learning; be passionate with our hobbies; and, never stop dreaming.

We are Women.

Happy International Women’s Day!