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In giving of ourselves, we can make this a better world
By Donna GlanzmanVery seldom does an awards luncheon move an audience to tears. Very seldom do those honored reveal the deeply personal impact their actions have had on themselves while serving others.
This was the case at last month’s YWCA Women of Achievement luncheon. The legacy given to the Columbus community by 10 outstanding women in their fields of business, family, government, health, religion and social services is astounding.
These 10 women provide examples for all of us.
They have helped troubled teens find direction, focus and self-esteem. They have supported child-care reform and ensured safe havens for women and families in need. They have fought for equality and against discrimination of all kinds. They have focused on the worker, mentoring, educating, advocating when the need arose.
These women are wonderful examples of faith and extraordinary commitment. They have unselfishly sacrificed their time, their energy and often their personal needs for the welfare of others.
The 10 women honored join an elite group recognized by the Columbus YWCA over the past 10 years. These “Women of Achievement” represent the spirit of commitment, sacrifice, leadership, teamwork and faith that the vision they possess will make this community and those who live here so much better.
I am privileged to call three of this year’s honorees my friends—Susie Edgar from here in Worthington, Dorothy Browley and Deborah Pryce. Each in their own way has impacted my family and me. Their quiet yet self-confident manner inspires those who know them well.
They are not the kind of women who seek recognition for recognition’s sake. They know what needs to be done to change things, to improve those around them and to work hard. They are committed to their families, and they are blessed with supportive spouses who applaud the commitments they have made. They are mothers who daily juggle the love and needs of their children while fulfilling their commitments. And they do it with a warm smile and such grace.
The luncheon itself is the embodiment of the YWCA mission. In part it states: “Driven by the strength and spirit of women, the YWCA is guided by a commitment to peace, justice, equality, human dignity, freedom and the elimination of racism.”
The sincerity of the recipients ensured we left believing the simple message, “in giving of ourselves, we can make this a much better world”.
We should all look around for opportunities to serve. Maybe it will be through our churches, our schools or the upcoming Worthington Service Day. Whatever we choose, we will all experience the rewards gained from sacrificing our time and energy.
From: Worthington Suburbia News, April 12, 1995
