As a woman, people seem to have a lot of opinions on me. Whether it is my job, my health, my body or my marital status, everyone has a lot to say about how I should be living. How I am failing if I’m not doing x or y or z.
Everybody has a definition of right and wrong but when it comes to a woman living her life, we love to force our vision on her. It’s interesting how much a woman scares people. Her very existence seems to warrant discourse, a guidebook, a means to curb her thoughts. I often wonder if men are given guardrails to help them live their life. If not, why not?
It’s International Women’s Day today, a day I have very mixed feelings on. Every time I think of 8 March, the first image that comes to mind is of a rose. Maybe because it’s an oft repeated gift that people give to women on this day. Unless they’re giving discounts. We tend to monetize everything, don’t we?
I don’t want to be a part of the discourse though, or tell women what they should or shouldn’t demand. We’re smart. We’ll figure it out. After all, no two women have the same needs.
What I do want to do is talk about all the people who have fought with me to silence the sound of social conditioning in my head that runs like a reel, telling me I cannot or should not achieve something. I want to celebrate my village for pushing me, even when I wanted to be a stubborn old goat, sit on a pavement and cry tears of failure.
Dad for telling me that I don’t need to take on responsibilities that aren’t mine. As an elder daughter, it is difficult to remember that the weight of the world is not on my shoulders.
Ma for reminding me that I’m allowed to be ambitious, to be stubborn about my vision. My tenacity is something I have inherited from you…even if it gives you the most grief.
Shreya for giving me her shoulder to rest on when my days become too hectic and I forget to slow down. She is the only one who will brave my ire by snatching away my book to force me to rest. Or take me out for watering.
My friends for loving me even when I didn’t think I could be loved. For never making me feel like I didn’t belong, even when I thought I couldn’t possibly. If they read this, I know they will have some choice words to say but beheno, this is true. The good thing is, I have learnt to accept your love and support.
My soul tribe for giving me a safe space to cry, scream, vent and laugh. You have no idea how much your presence has reminded me that I’m not a lone warrior, I can set down my armour, breathe and be.
Every Blogchatter community member who has shared or continues to share their stories with us. I learnt the strength of vulnerability from you.
To the A-team for being the partners in crime every employee should have at their back. Sona, for the deliberate way you think and speak. Geethica, for the way you give zero fucks. Leha, for your imagination and care. Richa, for teaching us how to be badass.
Every writer whose book I have read, and every writer whose book I hope to reach soon, thank you for showing me the magic of storytelling.
They say behind every successful man is a woman. Whether or not she’s rolling her eyes or silently manoeuvring said man is their call, of course.
However, behind this successful woman is a village that came together to support her and make sure she didn’t lose track of her dreams, even if sometimes she did because of how exhausting it can be.
It has been my privilege to know you and I hope I am able to share this privilege with as many people as I’m able. For there is nothing more comforting than knowing that someone is in your corner, cheering you on, even if all you’re doing is peeling a potato.
This post is a part of Her Journey Blog Hop hosted by Sukaina Majeed and Manali Desai.
tales of Suchita 
This is a sweet, heartfelt and personal way of saying thanks to every person in your life who makes you the ‘woman’ you are. As a Blogchatter community member I’m so happy you mentioned us too. Thank you for that and also for your awesome stories and your support as an A-Team member.
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Thank you so much Manali ❤
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True – it indeed takes a village to raise a strong, independent minded girl. So happy that you have awesome friends and family who have your back. Great way to show your gratitude to people who shaped you!
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Thank you, I’m indeed lucky and privileged.
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I relish your way of writing whether it is mails, story telling or showing gratitude. I appreciate your generosity and hardworking attitude. Glad you have such a big team or village of persons who support you and care for you.
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Thanks so much Shifali!
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Hey Suchita, I am happy to be a part of your support system at work. Main nahi kehti ki work place mein bhi ek warm culture hona chahiye jo aapko aapke jaisa rehne de.
Kudos to the A-Team!
And yes, has anyone asked a man about his choices in life? It’s time to turn around the tables.
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Yes, we should definitely turn the tables and ask. The answers may surprise us.
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Lovely read dear. Loved the way you jotted down about celebrating people on women’s day. Your words are encouraging and they really uplifting a lot more views
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Thanks Pamela 😄
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This is such a lovely post that warmed my heart. You are talented Suchita and your words have the capacity to keep someone hooked onto them because they ooze out so many layers of emotions. I loved how you have written words of appreciation to everyone involved . And yes , I do agree it does taka a village to raise a girl. Because with the society having it’s reservations even if a girl has talent , without support she is sure to fail !
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Thank you Chinmayee for your words of support 😊
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Suchita, your writing never fails to make me smile. I love your understated sense of humour and the way you add gratitude to many of your posts. It does take a village to raise a girl… I saw this beautiful concept brought alive on Britain’s Got Talent, as a whole troupe danced on a similar song. For me, your post is the top post in this blog hop. Your emails are also amazingly crafted and always bring joy. Keep writing and keep spreading sunshine!
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You’re very kind Deepti. Thank you so much. I’m so happy to know that my writing spreads sunshine. It’s the best compliment!
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This is such a powerful and heartfelt reflection on the complexities of being a woman in today’s world. It’s inspiring to see you acknowledge the support and encouragement from your loved ones and community. Your words resonate deeply, reminding us of the importance of celebrating the diverse experiences and voices of women everywhere. Thank you for sharing this beautiful tribute on International Women’s Day.
If I’m correct and you’re the author of that Tuesday email, I must say, your emails are my jam! The way you spin words and hook people in is seriously impressive. Yours are the only emails I actually bother reading all the way through! 😂
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Yes I write the Tuesday emails. So happy to know that Anjali and thank you for your kind words.
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Oh Suchita this heartfelt tribute beautifully captures the essence of gratitude and appreciation for the supportive community that has uplifted and empowered you on your journey. It’s inspiring to see the recognition of the diverse individuals who have played pivotal roles in encouraging you to pursue your dreams, challenge societal norms, and embrace your own strength and resilience. Through the acknowledgment of the love, guidance, and companionship provided by family, friends, mentors, colleagues, and fellow writers, you highlight the importance of collective support in facing life’s challenges and celebrating achievements. This reflection serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of community and the important value of standing together in like-mindedness, encouragement, and understanding. You are an inspiring soul and you know that smile on your face actually inspires me to think out of the box and it’s an honest declaration on an open forum.
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Thanks a lot Samata 🙂
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Thank you Suchita for this feel good post and making me proud for being born a woman. The thank you’s in your posts are so heartfelt and I being the first born so resonate with your Dad’s words. I took the BlogChatter member thanks personally and also glad to have connected with you through the beautiful community. More power to you. Kudos!
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Dads give the most sage advice 😁 I’m so glad to have met you too Zenobia. Thank you 💙
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Your post warmed the cockles of my heart. So much gratitude and love that you received and give back, I am sure it will fill your life with happiness and joy. It’s true one man’s or in this case woman’s success is never alone, it is teamwork, the push from behind, and the shoulders to lean on that let us reach for the stars.
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That’s so true. It’s always team work. Thank you Preeti 🫶🏿
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Your reflection is deeply moving and resonates with many experiences and sentiments I’ve encountered. The way you articulate the complex web of societal expectations, personal struggles, and support systems is truly powerful.
I admire your candidness in acknowledging the myriad voices that surround women, often dictating what they should or shouldn’t do. Your recognition of the diverse needs and journeys of women is refreshing and important. Each woman’s path is unique, and it’s essential to honor and respect that individuality.
Your gratitude towards your support network, your “village,” is heartwarming. It’s evident how much they’ve impacted your life, offering guidance, solace, and unwavering support. They’ve provided you with the strength to navigate through challenges and pursue your ambitions, even when the weight of responsibilities feels overwhelming.
Your celebration of the people who have uplifted you serves as a reminder of the power of community and connection. From family members to friends to colleagues and fellow writers, each individual has contributed to your growth and resilience in their own way. It’s a beautiful testament to the importance of surrounding ourselves with positive influences and building meaningful relationships.
Lastly, your reflection on the notion of success and the support behind it is both poignant and empowering. Behind every successful woman indeed lies a network of individuals who have uplifted and championed her along the way. Your acknowledgment of this support speaks volumes about your humility and gratitude.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences so openly. Your words serve as a beacon of encouragement and inspiration for anyone striving to navigate their own path in the face of societal expectations and personal challenges. Keep shining your light and uplifting others with your authenticity and resilience.
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Thanks so much Monidipa!
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Your humor is understated, yet it’s captured attention, reminding us of our strength and the supportive souls who’ve bolstered our confidence. I am always bombarded about my single status and how I have forgotten”Maa ka farz” as my daughter is 34 and not married yet. We have hides, Suchita 🙂 Keep illuminating, keep thriving, and keep sparking anticipation with those Tuesday emails. Stay blessed for all the support you’ve received!
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Indeed it’s a blessing. Thank you Harjeet 🩵
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Lovely post Suchita . Yes, it is true it takes a village to raise a girl. I love your way to show gratitude to the people in your life including dad, ma, Shreya, friends, co worker, reader, writers any everyone who is in your surroundings to support you directly or indirectly. You are really lucky to have such positive people in your life. Love your concept.
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Thank you so much!
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Your recognition of the diverse influences that have shaped your journey, from your parents’ guidance to the camaraderie of your friends and colleagues, is a beautiful tribute to the village that stands behind every successful woman. Your acknowledgment of their contributions speaks volumes about your humility and appreciation for the support system that surrounds you.
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Thanks Kanchan.
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Nice post Suchita. It’s a lovely way to show thankfulness and gratitude to the people who have genuinely helped you in our journey. You are lucky to have such positive people around you. I am sure they feel the same way about you as you feel about them.
Btw, I love the last line… I’m still smiling 😉
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Thank you so much Kaveri for your very kind words 😊
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Love, love, loved your post, Suchita. Your wit is subtle, and yet, you have made all of us sit and take notice that yes, we are empowered, and there are quite a few good people who made us believe in ourselves. Keep shining, keep rocking, and keep making us look forward to those Tuesday emailers
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Awe thank you so much Harshita for your continued words of support for my craft ❤️
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I geuinely like this post. As I was reading this, I was imagining all those people of my village who pushed me and also those who stopped me from being me. Thanks for reminding that there is a whole village behind every woman wh’s doing anything, even as small as peeling a potato.
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Thank you so much Janaki. Glad the post resonated 🙂
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This is so relatable. My mom was strict but she always let me be me. She may have told me to sit like a girl many times, but she also accepted my daring nature. I thank God that she was with me during the first three months after I delivered my kids (both times I mean), otherwise I don’t know what would have happened to my mind!
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Ah mothers. They’re the best and also the most challenging. Thank you Cindy.
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“For there is nothing more comforting than knowing that someone is in your corner, cheering you on, even if all you’re doing is peeling a potato.” : This is so true.
It’s a lovely post. And spot on! Thanking you as a blogchatter community member.
Best wishes, Suchita. 🙂
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Thank you Tarang ❤
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I love that last bit, having someone in my corner to cheer me on–even if I’m peeling a potato. Believe it or not, my amazing mum did that the first time I attempted it. Sounds like you have a wonderful group of people in your life. What a blessing! What a great reminder, I’ll go ahead and make a list of all those who’ve helped me ~💕
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Hahahaha every time I’m able to phulao a roti, I feel my entire female line of ancestors are clapping 🤣 if you make a list, do share. I’d love to read it.
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Nice post, Suchita. Btw I forgot to answer your Q last time. I’ve read Gurcharan Das and I really like his writing. You may try ‘The Difficulty of Being Good’ to start with. Also, I recently read Viktor Frankl and if philosophy is your thing, you may try him..I am listening to Shashi Tharoor, Inglorious Empire. He’s good.
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Thank you Sonia. And also thanks for the reccos!
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