There is always cause for celebration!

Today is 'International Women's Day' (IWD) and I must admit I didn't really know much about it, its origins and how it is celebrated.  We have many such days now, I was not sure if this was just another one, but my research led me to uncover some fascinating facts. 

• It has been observed since the early 1900s. 
• Today it is a public holiday in many countries and the tradition sees men honouring their wives, girlfriends, colleagues etc with small gifts and flowers. 
• In some countries IWD has the equivalent status of mother's day where children give small gifts to their mothers and grandmothers.
• It appears to have been rooted in a desire to change attitudes in both women's and society's thoughts about women's equality and emancipation
•  More recently the tone and nature of IWD has, for the past few years, moved from being a reminder about the negatives to a celebration of the positives.
• Annually on 8 March, thousands of events are held throughout the world to inspire women and celebrate achievements. A global web of rich and diverse local activity connects women from all around the world ranging from political rallies, business conferences, government activities and networking events through to local women's craft markets, theatrical performances, fashion parades and more.

 Apparently in the UK 437 events will be taking place this year in honour of IWD!

source: international women's day.com - well worth a visit if you have the time.

Well we had cakes (kindly provided by a colleague) in honour of  IWD and a natter during lunchtime at school today.  I think that counts.  Personally I am all for anything which seeks to encourage, acknowledge and build upon, using past experiences without dwelling on them.

I salute all you international women out there.  Happy IWD!

Talking of celebrations it is so good to rejoice in the faithfulness of God.  He always comes through,  in ways beyond our expectations or understanding.  Today (day 73) I am thankful to be able to say thank you to Him for what he has done and is doing in the lives of some friends of ours.  It has been a long (they'd probably say, very long) journey for them, one which has tested their resolve to the max, but today they can see that they are not forgotten, rather, they are princes and princesses of a King!