I have three female role models:
- Sarah Dylan Breuer, a woman I originally met at The Ooze message boards 4-5 years ago. You can read her blog here, but if you really want to get a feel for why I admire her so much go straight to this Ooze article she wrote in '04 that retells the parable of the shepherd who left 99 sheep to look for the one that was lost.
Sarah is the kindest person I've ever met. She's also one of the most determined. When I first met her I really admired the way she was able to strongly disagree with someone without alienating them. When people took offense at her beliefs she never seemed to take it personally - even if they attacked or ridiculed her. Which is something I'm still trying to learn how to do.
- My mom, Tammy. From homebirthing and homeschooling to returning to college with three young kids underfoot, learning to play the bass guitar from a self-described satanist (who later became a christian because of my parents' unconditional friendship, I think? Or at the least he became much more open to the idea of God) to encouraging her husband to become a "stay-at-home dad" when us kids grew a little older while the family was living in a community that really didn't understand that concept, she's never been afraid to dance to the beat of her own drum. Even when no one else could hear the rhythm.
- And not to embarass her, but I like to think of "our" Julie here at EW as one of my role models as well. She's intelligent and gritty and I've never known her to back down in a discussion. Which is a good thing for me be around as I'm the kind of person who quickly backs away when the temperature rises. In this way at least Julie is the yin to my yang. ;)
Labels: Gender Issues, Women in Ministry
To be honest, this site has become an inspiration to me. It has been wonderful to see that many topics and discussions occur and there seems to be a genuine respect and acceptance for each other. I think many of the women here have great ideas, thoughts, and comments and surely will leave great contributions.
In my personal life, I have an aunt, Sara Kinder that I have always respected. She has been through the good and the bad. She is honest, but has a way of saying things that make me think. She is a good listener, she has a kind heart. She has a strong faith in God, but was never pushy with her opinions. She has always been sensitive to where I was in my life. I didn't get to spend a lot of time with her, but I always look forward to seeing her and the conversation to be had! She has been great!