Before writing this letter, I decided to stroll through the pages of this month’s issue from a different perspective. With a grateful heart, I again carefully read the staff masthead, listing a portion of the loving hands and hearts that selflessly devote their time, talents and energy to this huge project every month.

My heart opened wide as I reviewed every ad, byline and quote, photo and design element contributed to this edition. Many of those present in articles and advertisements have supported me personally over the years as part of my healthcare team; others have supported my well-being in other ways. Some inspire me in ways they don’t realize.

By the time I reached the back cover, I felt blessed anew for the privilege of being able to provide this resource to our natural living community for the past 18 years. I remembered the scores of individuals that have shown up at critical times to nurture and contribute to my journey; both men and women that have magnified the good in my life.

For several years, Natural Awakenings’ May edition has celebrated the feminine spirit. When I think of honoring mothers and other women in the world, fragrant, colorful flowers come to mind. Delicate, beautiful and passionate, they comprise an unparalleled life force. How fortunate we are to have significant women mentors and nurturers cheering us on, for however briefly. I invite you take the opportunity this month to thank the women in your life that have especially blessed you. (Thanks, Mom!)

In this women’s issue (news for men, too, that also earn our spotlight next month), you’ll find some of the nicest, wisest people in town. All are here to assist you, whether you need to pamper yourself or another special woman in your life with a massage, thicker hair or rebalanced hormones—at any age.  

I once saw a photo of a smiling, white-haired woman, holding a simple yoga pose. She looked content, wise and happy. “I want to be like her in my 90s,” I thought. “At home in my body, balanced and happy, at peace with all that has happened in my life.” For me, it means knowing that somehow I have made a difference in the lives of as many people as possible.

I salute all the pioneers throughout history that have secured women our rightful place in the sun—the vote, equal pay, a place in the peacemaking process and other opportunities to live empowered lives. Rather than take these for granted, let’s exercise our freedom to keep and grow our right to make this a better world.

May your life blossom in many colors and fragrances,

 

 

 

Sharon Bruckman, Publisher

 

Wise Women Say

We’d like to share a few favorite quotes by some of the magnificent women that bring you Natural Awakenings each month.

“Rise to the altitude of true womanhood, and then the whole world will want you.”
~ Mary Baker Eddy, to a student challenging the glass ceiling
Submitted by National Editor Alison Chabonais

“If you obey all the rules, you miss all the fun.”
~ Katharine Hepburn, who didn't play by the rules at all
Submitted by Naples Editor Linda Sechrist

“The question isn't who is going to let me; it's who is going to stop me.”
~ Ayn Rand, author of The Fountainhead and Atlas Shrugged
Submitted by staff writer Beth Davis