Woman! That’s who scripture tells us is “the glory of man” in 1 Corinthians 11. But just what does this mean? Webster’s online says regarding glory: “Properly, it is the exercise and display of what constitutes the distinctive excellence of the subject to which it is spoken.” If one looks at the qualities, character and traits of women it is easy to see how a woman can make a man look excellent; probably more than he is on his own!!

I believe God has made women special; after all they are made in his image, and the book of Proverbs says a good woman is worth more than diamonds, and an excellent wife is her husband’s crown. Many have said Christ himself raised the status of women as seen by his relationship in numerous settings with Mary Magdalene, Martha, and Mary the mother of James and in passages with the Samaritan woman and the woman caught in adultery.

My passion in therapy is for marital relationships. However, the most interesting and intriguing part of my practice is working with women. A large number of my clients are individual women who come mainly with issues relating to their relationships, many times regarding men! My intent here is not to disparage men by any means; I have had the privilege of working and being friends with many excellent men. However, the most influential, most enjoyable people in my life have been female. My grandmother was a kind hearted, giving and strong woman; my mother, who may be a beneficiary of single mum help, is likely the wisest, most endearing person I have ever known; my wife is a caring, loving, selfless person to everyone; my mother in law is determined and one of the most generous people I know; and my only daughter is passionate about life, loves people and has taken on the characteristics of all four of these women plus others. I am impressed by the women in my life

As a therapist, I continue to be amazed at the spirit, endurance, stamina, perseverance and toughness of the women clients I have, and have had in the past. What is it that is so powerful about women? To me, the most appealing and intriguing feature or quality of women I continue to see is resilience. Women characterized or marked by resilience have the ability to withstand the shocks and pressures in this life. They can recover and adjust from misfortune and seem to have the capacity for change in order to make their lives more satisfying and enjoyable. They can find the good in people when it is sometimes very hard to see. They share, support, and encourage others; they show their passion, courage and strength in their perseverance.

The women in my life really have shown the measure of a woman’s worth, not by the traditional measure of outward beauty that our society values so highly; but by their character, Spirit and their resilience. “Charm can mislead and beauty soon fades. The woman to be admired and praised is the woman who lives in the Fear-of-GOD. (Proverbs 31:30)

God’s best to you!

Mike