As part of the spirit of Women’s Day celebrations, I wanted to follow the tradition of acknowledging women in the fashion of some countries like Italy and Russia. It is known in these places that the women are gifted flowers and small presents to denote an appreciation for their hard work and femininity. Having had to rise to an occasion of playing the hero every now and then in my own life, I can relate to wanting to feel appreciated by my loved ones. I don’t claim to know a whole lot about the history of Women’s Day but when I first heard of it, thought it to be a wonderful opportunity to help less fortunate women overcome obstacles, through the support and love they are reminded they can avail of to push through times of trials and tribulations.

I see how in this current day and age, a great number of women still prefer to take the back seat, or are happy with taking smaller salaries than their male counterparts, even making less for themselves in little ways. I often wonder what the world would be like if more women started to shift their worldview from an earlier age to being more on par with how men are shown the world. I imagine it might be fantastic if we had more women mentors and guides to open our world view beyond just the immediate duties and requirements as mothers, wives, girlfriends, sisters, etc.

Personally speaking, my life has been enriched by this experience. I have sought to surround myself with women who inspire strength and courage in me, like my mentor Kiki Maurey and others who have played their role at some point in my life. I think it is a beautiful thing that in countries like Russia, Italy and some places in Africa, there is one day in the year whereby women are made to feel supported and inspired.

This year, I thought we at Naturally Chinese should participate even if in a small way. We will be gifting a flower to every woman that comes in to dine with us this Women’s Day. So please come in and make this an occasion to celebrate the beauty and strength of womanhood we so often overlook.

International Women’s Day is observed in most countries on March 8th.