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A Woman of Valor

May. 28, 2010 by Keiko Zoll

Maxfield Parrish: Ecstasy.

I wanted to close this ICLW with something that has been an inspiration to me, something I always keep in the back of my mind: the Jewish concept of a Woman of Valor. I’m not here to preach religion, but I hold this ideal in my heart and let it guide me. A Woman of Valor- Eshet Chayil – is a psalm traditionally sung by husbands to their wives on Shabbos (Proverbs 31 to be precise). I found this beautiful re-imagining by Eric S. Kingston on Chabad.org, and I hope it will inspire you too.

A Woman of Valor

By Eric S. Kingston

Dedicated to all the women who showed me what true strength is.

A woman of valor makes the world change

Her strength is the content that guides through the days

Defined by her actions that bring light to all dreams

Valor is something that’s defined by her deeds.

Her valor is golden, sparkled and gray

She stands up to the challenge no matter the way

It can’t be held back or defined by her age

Yes, a woman of valor makes the world change.

For valor’s not held by the young or the old

But by the deeds of the heart that give and unfold

It’s merit and honor that hold no disguise

Like the creation of being in the blessed Holy One’s eyes.

For valor is the color of the song of her soul

As she changes, creates and turns light into gold

Divine is Her Presence, be it joyous or sad

— A Woman of Valor —

May offer little, but it will be all that she has.

For only her heart will know the depths of her soul

That nurtures and blossom and forever unfolds

And holds in its essence new life and new gain

Yes,

A woman of valor makes the world change

A woman of valor makes the world change

A woman of valor makes the world change.

Be the change, readers, be the change. Make waves in this world, and to my female readers: you are all  Women of Valor.

Shabbat shalom and to my readers here in the States: a safe and wonderful Memorial Day Weekend.

Healing, Keiko's Infertility Journey, Mind Body Soul

Comments

  1. Art by Dawn Marie says

    Jun. 5, 2010 at 6:37 PM

    This is a beautiful poem, I am so glad to have read it.
    I do not always comment, but your posts inspire and encourage me in my journey through PCOS. Thank you

  2. Patience says

    May. 29, 2010 at 9:56 AM

    Thank you for sharing this today.

  3. Kristin says

    May. 28, 2010 at 1:16 PM

    Absolutely beautiful. It gave me chills.

  4. Mrs. Farmer says

    May. 28, 2010 at 11:37 AM

    So BEAUTIFUL!! My Sister actually gave me a copy of this same print when I was in HS. I've always loved it. But reading this poem makes the print that much more meaningful. Thank you for being you! You have caused so much change Thank you!!! And thank you for giving us the courage to find the voice within to make a change!! Have a very safe and Happy Memorial Day

  5. MK says

    May. 28, 2010 at 10:43 AM

    As a hybrid between an honorary jew and an atheist, I find this to be so beautiful. Thank you.

  6. Alex says

    May. 28, 2010 at 9:56 AM

    Beautiful!

  7. Shorty says

    May. 28, 2010 at 9:44 AM

    very appropriate for a friday post 🙂

    love this English version of Eshat Chayil…

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