Have you heard of the word simp? It is a relatively new term that is a slang insult for men seen as too attentive and submissive to women, especially with hopes of winning favors from them. In short, a simp is someone who will do anything for a girl to get something in return. 

Simping, if there's such a term, can be seen in social media, more popularly in TikTok. In a generation devoted to gender equality, being overly pleasant to women can be construed as simping. But I believe that most women today can see past men's intentions. Men may simp all they want, but women are wise enough to guard themselves. Women do not easily fall prey to simps. [Yes, you may say that even this statement looks like simping in itself.] 

Every March, the world celebrates International Women's Month. During this season, we honor the exemplary contributions of all the women in our lives. As expected, commercialism follows. Social media is prolific with posts recognizing a woman's worth, abilities, accomplishments, and what they can do. Advertising turns more feminine to attract more women patrons. But then I wonder, are they really after empowering women or boosting sales and engagements?

We all have women in life who made an impact on us. We have great mothers, sisters, teachers, leaders - even friends who encouraged us and influenced us to be better. If I'm going to share all the names of women who made an impact in my life, it will take a large chunk of time. But there are commonalities in them, and that's where I want to dwell. 

Women are worth celebrating for the following reasons:

They are tenacious

Culture says women are the weaker gender. In physical strength, maybe. But in tenacity, they sure punch a lot. I know a lot of women whose determination exceeds expectations. My mother is an example. In times of difficulties, I witnessed how she did not give up. 

A woman's unwavering passion for their loved ones is remarkable. When we were still babies, they sacrificed sleep to take care of us. When we first entered school, they not only prepared us food, they helped us with our homework as well. And when we grow older, their love does not falter even a little. Motherhood is a tough job, but most mothers embrace it so well that they even take up formal employment on top of being a mother!

They are loving

A woman's love is extraordinary. They would give their all to show how much they value a person. I learned this from indefatigable women in my life. I have teachers in primary and secondary schools who went beyond the chalkboard and showed concern even after class. They gave me attention. I was encouraged. They gave me the necessary push for me to come out of my shell. Some of the things they do are beyond their duty and salary grade, but they make sure that I get what they're teaching me. 

I had lady bosses who went beyond their manager's seat to give motherly advice. Some lady friends who gave sisterly concern. Women are naturally caring and thoughtful. It is a source of their strength. 

Celebrate, not Calibrate

We no longer live in an era where women have to stay inside their homes and tend to their children. They can do as much as men. They can contribute as much. Women are "capable", "enough", and "worth it". They need no calibration. They are not inferior beings that need calibration for an upgrade. God created women as man's equal, a help-meet. A partner, not a competitor. 

Cheers to all the amazing women out there!