Women, we are as unique as snowflakes but as strong as Australian Buloke trees. Today, on what is International Women’s Day, I am especially thinking about the women of Ukraine who are fleeing with their children leaving husbands to fight against the Russian invaders or those who are picking up arms and fighting side by side with military members and citizens soldiers. Where are they finding their strength?

Where do you find your strength when you are faced with a daunting situation? The article “7 Strategies That Will Help You Stay Strong During Tough Times” (https://www.creativehealthyfamily.com/how-to-stay-strong-during-tough-times/) offers the following tips.

Accept that some situations are beyond your control

Allow yourself time to grieve and feel all the feelings

Never be afraid to ask for help

Whenever possible, offer help to those in need

Take joy where life offers it

Reframe your negative thoughts

Learn from the past, live in the moment, prepare for the future

As I watch the situation in Ukraine unfold, I am seeing these strategies being put into play by women and girls, old and young. I pray for their continued strength and safety – for the tearful ones leaving the only life they have known in uncertainty, for those grieving the loss of family and friends, for that little girl finding joy in singing “Let it Go” while huddled up in a bomb shelter, and for the Polish women leaving strollers at the train station. Holy Mother, hear my prayers.