\u201cShe\u2019s too much,\u201d was something I frequently heard as a child from those around me. Similarly, \u201cshe talks a lot,\u201d or \u201cshe\u2019s sassy,\u201d which always issued a chuckle or eye-roll from the adults nearby. Hearing this about myself hurt when I was young and usually ended with me sulking and doubting myself. As an adult and a professional, I\u2019ve still heard this about myself. Now, however, the bold New Yorker in me is not injured or afraid to own it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
As a mother, I\u2019ve also heard people say the same thing about my\ndaughter, Ellie. She is fierce and breathes fire with her words. No one can\nextinguish her flame. To be honest, I wouldn\u2019t want it any other way. Her\nboldness and unreserve are her strength. It\u2019s these qualities that make her a\ngood communicator and will make her successful\u2014personally and professionally.\nWhen it\u2019s her turn at the table, I want her to know without any glimmer of\ndoubt that she belongs there and that her voice\u2014no matter the intensity\u2014is\nvalued. I want her to be her fiery self. Always.<\/p>\n\n\n\n