It’s Women’s History Month, and in honor of that, I decided to give the women in my life their flowers while they’re still here. As a woman of color, Women’s History Month means something different to me personally. I’m surrounded by amazing, strong women that inspire me to be my best every day. They have persevered even though the bar is always set higher.
For starters, my mamma, Pamala Corley, iis the woman who gave me life. My first teacher in life, she is the one that’s been there through my mess-ups and my victories, cheering me on either way. She’s always encouraged me to be a woman of my word, a good friend, and more importantly, a good person. I’m amazed by her strength through health problems, losing her dad, and just about any obstacle life has thrown her way. She’s always made me her priority through it all and she makes it look easy. One thing I’ve always admired about my mom is that she loves so hard, she puts those she loves first all the time.
Another woman who has inspired me is Justine Chan, my former High School English teacher. She is a mom of three, a new yoga instructor, a wife and so much more. Throughout my senior year of high school, I remember going through so much with friends and the thought of change. During that time I remember Justine being my go-to at school. She always supported me when a situation would arise, and continued to do that even after I graduated.
It’s been 5 years and the bond hasn’t changed. She’s become the cool aunt figure to me. Anytime I’m going through something, she’s always a shoulder I can count on. She has given me advice, encouragement, and most times she tells me to lean on my faith. I’m grateful for her because she doesn’t have to still be in my life all these years later. But she chose to be.
Last but certainly not least my best friend, Anaiah Munden- Maye, my best friend since 11th grade. She is a wife, a business owner, a woman of faith, and did I mention… My best friend? She has always been a rider for me. I feel no judgment with anything I tell her. Her support is unmatched by anyone.
My mom always told me growing up, “ If you have at least one good friend in life, you’re doing alright.” Although I have other close friends, Anaiah has always been the main one. We have always connected through music, fashion, and both of us growing up in church. I remember pre- pandemic I was supposed to sing at my grandfather’s church. Anaiah and her husband came to support me all the way from New Jersey. I remember feeling so grateful to have a friend that shows up when I need her.
During high school, Anaiah was having a procedure done and at the time I had no car, so I called my grandparents and asked them to take me to see her in the hospital as soon as she got out. We went, and although Anaiah was in and out at that time, she knew I was there.
These women and their impact is what makes Women’s History Month so important. You get to cherish all the relationships with all the women in your life.
Some families are through blood and some are your chosen family. They all have an impact on who you are, and it’s beautiful to have a little piece of all of them in your heart. To every woman, treat every day like Women’s History Month. Enjoy and love all the women in your life. It makes the world a little sweeter.
