Who runs the world? Girls! This week, Sticky Rice spotlights some of the special women that we have had the honor of learning from. Globally recognized as International Women’s Day, March 8th is an important day to honor strong women throughout history, and our lives. Our Peace Corps Thailand volunteers have written small articles highlighting women in their lives with a tremendous impact. We’d love to hear about influential women in your life as well, tell us in the comments!
Kiera Hurley, 135 YinD
You know that woman who reminds you how amazing and special it is to be a woman!!? The woman that lifts everyone’s spirits because her spirit is so bright!!? That woman for me is Mae Eliza Garland and she inspires me to be a better woman and person! Anyone who is lucky enough to meet Mae knows that she’s a special girl. She inspires me in many ways so I thought I’d tell a few stories to explain the kind of woman Mae is by using her initials.
M: Meaningful
A: Affectionate
E: Empathetic
Meaningful: Mae is someone who thinks of everyone + everything and is one of the most thoughtful women I know. During PST it was Mae who organised card making and signing for all of the marvellous people who touched our lives for such a short period of time. She thought of EVERYONE!! From the fruit sellers to the coffee shop we frequented to our language teachers to the ice cream man. And that’s why Mae inspires me to be more MEANINGFUL~ because she pays attention to others before herself and makes sure everyone, no matter how trivial they may seem, feels seen.
Affectionate: Mae loves to love and she’s so good at showing and expressing it. I think one of the first things Mae asked me (and many other of the poo yings) to do was to give her scratches. Arm scratches, head scratches, leg scratches and this will probably continue for the rest of our friendship. It doesn’t matter where you are or what you’re doing, Mae will always wish to receive and give scratches. She’s so comfortable in her own body and with affection it of course relays onto you. And that’s why Mae inspires me to be more AFFECTIONATE ~ because the people in our lives deserve to know and feel the love we hold for them.
Empathetic: Mae is the best listener, sympathizer, and confidant. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve reached out to her to be my emotional touchstone on a situation and to give me sound advice. Recently I ended a relationship with my partner and Mae was and still is always there to make sure I’m doing ok. No matter what’s going on in her own life, Mae will always be there for you. And that’s why Mae inspires me to be more EMPATHETIC ~ because putting yourself in another’s shoes always helps you to have more compassion for them.
I love you and appreciate you Mae, thank you for being such an inspiring woman to us all!!
Sticky Rice 