Rosa Parks, Amelia Earhart, Malala Yousafzai, Jane Goodall, Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Rihanna. This is only a small snippet of inspiring women who significantly exemplify what it means to be a woman. I would like to add a name to the lengthy list, Elisa Heckenlaible, my mom.

March is Women’s History Month. A time to remember the women who walked before us, who paved the way for the future female generations. This month is a reminder of the honor it is to be a woman. To hold a common trait with some of the strongest, most knowledgeable and most persevering people is one of a kind. 

I am fortunate to hold so many similar traits to my mother. From our eyes and smile to our crazy personalities and coffee addictions. And don’t forget the hold evening naps have on us. She is the funniest, the hardest working and the most amazing woman I will ever meet. She’s my role model and best friend all in one.

When asked who I look up to while many see it as a cliche, my answer has always been my mom. I placed my mom’s name beside all these other amazing women because she has made the largest impact in my life. 

Anyone who meets my mom can attest that she truly is the nicest lady one will ever meet. She may talk an ear off and most definitely will tell an embarrassing story about me or my sibling. I swear she knows almost half the world with how many people she says hi to daily. Her smile lights up a room. She has an aura that pulls people in and makes them feel safe and most of all happy. She’s crazy and loud and her sneezes sound like a real live elephant. I wouldn’t change it for the world. 

My mom has fought a long battle with Multiple Scorelis and through her outlook during it all, she has taught me that even in the worst of times you are still capable of having joy. A positive attitude toward oneself and others holds more power than any struggle. 

As March rolls around, think of the females in your life who inspire you. Whose name would you put on the list? Tell those you look up to about their impact and appreciate them. As my mom inspires me, let the month of March, Women’s History Month, be a reminder to keep fighting for what you believe in and to most importantly take pride in being a woman.

“There is no limit to what we as women can accomplish,” said Michelle Obama.

With this story, I want to honor all the different women out there who are authentically themselves and to my best friend, hero and biggest role model, my mom, I love you more.