Empowering Daughters

 Hey everyone, welcome back to my blog!

This week, we had some incredible lessons from Brother Williams. He delivered the messages appropriately and was careful with how he phrased his teachings. We explored the differences between males and females and the roles they tend to take on. Additionally, we delved into the concept of gender, and it was such an eye-opening lesson that it changed my views on many of the topics we covered in class. In this blog, I want to discuss the importance of raising strong daughters and the different ways we can achieve that.

I am the oldest of four children—I have two sisters and one younger brother. Initially, I was raised as the firstborn son until my brother came along. Reflecting on my upbringing, I love the way my dad raised me. He taught me that I could do anything the guys were doing if I put my mind to it. He emphasized the importance of knowing my values, working hard, and always maintaining a positive attitude toward any task. These lessons helped me graduate from high school, get into a good university, and secure amazing jobs during the summers and the year after I graduated.

These lessons were beneficial to me and helped me be a role model for my younger siblings and cousins who look up to me. Growing up as a tomboy, I always thought I wanted to have boys because I got along best with my brother. Looking back, I realize I would love to have a daughter to teach her the same values and life lessons I grew up with.

During our class preparation, one article that really stood out to me was "A Different Way to Raise Strong Daughters" by Nicholeen Peck. In this article, she outlines five key lessons for raising daughters, which I found particularly resonant. The reason this article struck a chord with me is that Nicholeen Peck, like me, was raised not to be afraid of getting her hands dirty.

Peck’s first lesson emphasizes the importance of encouraging girls to try all sorts of activities, including domestic ones. This broad approach allows them to discover their strengths and maximize their potential. Growing up, I was always encouraged to explore various interests, which helped shape my abilities and confidence.

The second lesson highlights the need for women to keep a long-term vision of what they want to create. Peck explains that women often set the tone for society due to their influential nature. By understanding their impact on others and planning for desired outcomes, they can lead with purpose and focus. This idea resonated with me as I’ve witnessed how thoughtful planning can guide one’s actions and help achieve meaningful goals.

Another significant lesson from Peck is to avoid viewing boys as competition. Instead, fostering cooperation and mutual support in relationships is crucial. This mindset encourages selflessness and a more harmonious way of interacting with others. Growing up as a tomboy, I always thought I wanted to have boys because I got along best with my brother. However, I now realize that the competitive mindset can be counterproductive, and teaching girls to work together with boys is more beneficial.

Peck also stresses the importance of loving motherhood. She describes motherhood as a powerful and meaningful role that should be embraced with joy and gratitude. Complaining about the responsibilities of motherhood can create confusion and devalue this role. Celebrating the positive aspects and recognizing the power to shape another person’s life is essential. Even if one is not a mother, speaking respectfully of mothers helps instill a sense of value in this role for future generations.

Lastly, Peck underscores the need to teach good communication and relationship-building skills. Women have a unique ability to unify and inspire or to create division. By teaching daughters to express differences calmly, resolve conflicts kindly, and share opinions respectfully, we lay a strong foundation for their future personal and professional success. My mother often shared cherished memories with her own mother and grandmothers, highlighting their influence on her life. These stories reinforced the power of womanhood and its transformative impact, showing that strong communication skills and positive relationships are key to a fulfilling life.

In conclusion, these lessons are crucial for teaching daughters to become the best versions of themselves. However, it's equally important to allow them the freedom to discover who they are and what they aspire to achieve in this world.