29 Apr 2021 INVISIBLE JET AND LASSO OF TRUTH
In my lifetime, I have met all sorts of women. Those with boundless energy, mesmerizing intellects, contagious laughs, exquisite manners and taste, pacesetters, mountain-moving prayer warriors, ultra-organizers and crafting queens. There have been women of outstanding character and women who’ve regularly sacrificed their own good for those they care about. But none of them possessed all those attributes — because that would require superhero abilities, like those of Wonder Woman, a fictional character who has captivated audiences since 1941.
My first introduction to Wonder Woman was Lynda Carter’s version from the late ’70s. As Scarlett O’Hara once wore curtains, Lynda seemingly grabbed the nearest piece of fabric with finished seams and created an outfit. Wearing the union portion of the American flag across her derriere, she represented the 50 states very well as she took down the bad guys. At 5-feet 11-inches, the former Miss World USA righted wrongs as Wonder Woman one hour at a time for five successful years.
Drawing inspiration from that popular superheroine, our team brings you “501-Der Women.” This issue is packed with ladies who are righting the world one day, and one task, at a time. What an asset each of them is to this region! We’re so proud to highlight a conservationist, a nurse, a librarian, fitness leaders, a nonprofit pioneer, a food trendsetter, a social media influencer, a doula, counselors and a civil rights history-maker.
I’ve seen positive changes for women during my career. We haven’t arrived at equal footing, but we have come so far. Being a strong woman with influence isn’t about being the loudest, most forceful person who can talk like a sailor — though I’m afraid pop culture is modeling just that. Some of the most respected influencers I’ve known were good-natured forgivers who spoke deliberately.
May is a time when we celebrate mothers and look back to remember those who died in active military service on Memorial Day. We offer readers two veteran stories: Page 12 highlights inductees into the Arkansas Military Hall of Fame, and later in the magazine you’ll read about Veterans Village, a nonprofit outreach in Pulaski County.
Spring is here and I feel hope floating in the air — or is that pollen? — as vaccines are available, flowers paint neighborhoods and sunshine beckons us outdoors. Our team is committed to bringing you positive stories from Central Arkansas. So, whether you have a lasso of truth or a pair of indestructible bracelets, turn the page for inspiration and discover the Wonder Woman next door.
Stefanie Brazile
