Some people who know me might not readily understand why I join environmental protests and actions. Maybe they thought it’s simply part of our work.
I could have just worked or stayed at home during the 40th Anniversary of People Power. Yet I decided to be on the streets and be with our communities.
It’s not just about work. It’s not about being out there for nothing. There’s a sincere call to take part, whenever I can, in my own humble way. There’s a genuine enthusiasm to show up — as a woman, as a mom, as a wife, as a daughter, as His child.
I guess that’s the nature of women. It’s innate for many to care while that courage is in play. That means hope when women’s care and courage weave together. And courage and care could vary in meaning for women.
It takes care to love oneself and it takes courage to be empowered. It takes care to focus on what truly matters and it takes courage to know when to speak up and do something.
It takes care to appreciate someone and it takes courage to tell them when they’re not right. It takes care to have time for our loved-ones and it takes courage to be truthful.
It takes care to look after and help provide for the family and it takes courage to do that while wearing other hats. It takes care to celebrate how far we have already come and it takes courage to reflect how far we still have to go.
It takes care to listen to what a community needs and it takes courage to stand up with them. It takes care to see and appreciate the beauty of nature and it takes courage to act for our climate and our mother earth.
Regardless of how courage and care look to us women, one thing is certain. It spells HOPE. Hope that acts.
With everything that’s happening, hope remains for our community and the environment. This hope is woven together with care and courage by the hands of women, alongside diverse people who also act. Women nurture. Women challenge. The earth heals and humanity thrives when women support and lead.
The International Women’s Day or Women’s Month is not about exclusion; it’s a reminder that when we center the leadership of and respect for women, the entire tapestry becomes stronger for everyone. As we recognize women, let’s look for the passionate weavers in our own lives.
Diah Abida-Cruz is a Senior HR Coordinator at Greenpeace Southeast Asia and the mother to a curious daughter that inspires her everyday. Just like Diah, you can show courage by speaking up against injustice in any way you can and supporting communities in the fight for survival and a better future for all.
