What Hillary Taught Chelsea and What We Must Teach Our Daughters
Chelsea Clinton said last night that her mother is her hero. My guess is that hearing those words last night meant more to Hillary than the roar of the crowd at the Democratic National Convention - a lot more.
So what did Hillary Clinton do to win such high praise from her daughter?
- She stayed strong and principled. She showed her daughter that she was not willing to back down on the issues that matter to her.
- She set her sights high. She didn’t apologize for her ambition, demonstrating to her daughter that women should not hide their talents, skills and experience.
- She claimed credit for her contributions. Eighteen million cracks in the glass ceiling is no small feat; Hillary made history and modeled for her daughter that women must be unafraid to take credit for their accomplishments.
I hope I’ve been able to teach my daughter those things as well. What lessons do you think are most important to teach your daughters, nieces or the women you mentor?
TAGS: mentoring, Raising Girls, women role models
I love the perspective you took on last night’s speech, Carol. You’re right - Hillary modeled all the right behaviors for her daughter and the daughters of men and women around the world.
Comment by Dr. Lois Frankel — August 27, 2008 @ 4:14 pm
I have always believed that personal example is the loudest way to broadcast who you are and what you stand for. Hillary was outstanding last night. I have heard the same buzz all day. We all have to model the right behaviours for our daughter and for everyone’s daughters. I am really wondering why Hillary was not the candidate and what better role God has in store for her in the future.
Comment by Marilyn Ziemann, CPA — August 27, 2008 @ 7:19 pm
I would add Hillary also modeled excellence and authenticity coupled with acceptance of imperfection of the self and of life. A good model for all of us.She has done a good job of maintaining her self esteem and self worth in spite of being the object of so much criticism. That truly was evident in last nights speech.
Comment by Susan Picascia — August 27, 2008 @ 11:17 pm
Carol’s observations are right on. I didn’t need to hear Chelsea state this fact about her mom. It has been obvious to me watching Chelsea during Hilary’s campaign how proud she was of her mom. We should all hope our daughters turn out as accomplished as Chelsea and that they recognize our contributions to the end product.
Comment by mac — August 27, 2008 @ 11:39 pm
Thanks to all who enriched us with your comments. I’m still struggling to move on…
So, what’s your take on Bill’s speech? and Joe’s?
Comment by Carol Frohlinger, JD — August 28, 2008 @ 11:31 am
I tell my nieces all the time that it’s up to them to make their lives rich (in every sense of the word). No one else can define it for you. No one can do it for you.
Comment by Emilie — August 28, 2008 @ 1:39 pm