My Icons of

Strong Women in My Life
MARCUS YOUNG

A strong woman isn't a woman who can carry a man, push a car, or lift weights. The strong woman I'm referring to is a woman who overcomes any obstacle. A woman who can take care of herself and the whole worlds imultaneously. Someone who hurts in pain but doesn't complain, A woman who can work hours to pay the bills, feed her family, and still deal with her hurt and grieve rationally.

One of the particular individuals I'm speaking of is my grandmother. The wonderful, amazing superwoman Marilyn Parker. A woman who put her family over herself. Through times of grief, you couldn't tell her temperament because she is such a joyful woman who is professional, joyful, and empathetic. When she cooks, it's like a professional chef preparing dinner at Thanksgiving, especially the pork chops and dressing. One thing you should know is Granny Marilyn can throw a show of spectacle from the Kitchen. If you haven't tried her Family Famous Marilyn Pork Chops or Plate of Dressing, you best call her and try it.

Another superwoman is my great-grandmother, Mrs. Bessie Reece. A woman who just loves to smile. She loves her family with her entire heart. She is so strong. Despite the several illnesses she suffers from, without close observation, you would think she is a pain-free individual. That's just how she moves and lives; her attitude radiates light. A spiritual individual who can rest on God for anything.

The next superwoman on the list is my grandmother, Mildred. The grandmother with the warmest heart. If there's one thing in the world my grandmother loves, it's the things of God and Family. She loves to praise God every day of her life. Secondly, she loves to reach out to her family and check on everyone. The most interesting thing I love about my grandma, Mildred, is her ability to make anything she wants happen. Also, I love the delicious brownies she makes; she makes some of the best brownies in the world. Hands down, I don't know the recipe and don't want to; I just know she knows it.

The next and, by far, my favorite superwoman is my mom, MaDonna Young. The woman who takes care of five before one. The woman who ensures the rest of the family is good and leaves herself behind. A woman who puts family first and herself last. A woman who helps you understand her perspective and makes you think deeper. My mother does so much to put a smile on everyone's face and takes delight in watching us smile. My mother cooks so many delicious meals; I can't pick a favorite. However, make peace with the fact that she gets it from her Momma. She has an old soul but is an excellent, strong, and beautiful woman.

The last woman on this list is my TT Taunia. This super woman has been through horrible obstacles, but they never changed her personality. She takes care of two children and herself all alone. She doesn't hate; she motivates herself to do better for herself and her children. I love that she treats her nieces and nephews like her own. I love her dearly, and the Greens she makes are so amazing I need a plate at this moment.

I learned from writing this that these women are an important asset to my life. Also, I need to get a restaurant for them. When it all comes down, their story is almost the same; they love family and God and are determined to do His will for the rest of their lives.