Heroines all: Leading by example -- the role models abound this weekend

There is much to be proud of this weekend in Wayne County.

On this Mother's Day, those who wonder about the future of this country should look around -- there are plenty of leaders and role models right here -- especially this weekend.

First, there are the survivors -- the women (and men, too, but today is the day for the ladies) who have battled cancer while taking care of families. They have taught their children -- and the rest of us -- that courage comes in unexpected places and that faith, hope and love are what really matter in this journey that we call life.

Then there are the hundreds of women -- younger and older -- who set their minds to getting an education and turned their tassels this weekend at Wayne Community College.

It is not easy studying for exams, holding down a full-time job and caring for a family.

They have taught their sons and daughters that it is never too late to pursue a dream -- and that its accomplishment hinges on hard work and determination. And they have shown them that education matters.

That is heroism of a different sort.

And then there are the rest of the women who have devoted their lives to guiding, nurturing and caring for a family.

Some do it in connection with a full-time job, some do it on their own and some make it their only job. All of them are making a difference that cannot really be measured or ever repaid.

Many of the problems today stem from the pressures on families -- single parents, financial strain and divorce make it harder than ever to raise children.

So that means it is harder than ever to be a good mother.

But for every sad story, there are more than a few happy ones of women who have guided their children -- or are guiding them -- to happy and healthy futures. And they should be celebrated.

How fitting that this weekend, there should be so many in this county who deserve our attention and admiration.

Published in Editorials on May 11, 2013 11:36 PM