"The difference between a broken community and a thriving one is the presence of women who are valued."

When we talk about the strength and health of a community, we often overlook one crucial element—how we treat the women in that community. The quote emphasizes that the key difference between a broken community and a thriving one lies in the way women are valued and respected. It’s simple, really. If women are appreciated and their contributions are recognized, that community is likely to flourish. If not, it’s bound to struggle.

Historically, this idea has been echoed in various societies. Think back to the women’s suffrage movement in the early 20th century. Women fought tooth and nail for the right to vote. Why? Because they knew that their voices mattered, not just for their sake, but for the entire community. When women were finally given the right to vote, it wasn’t just a win for women—it was a win for society as a whole. Policies became more inclusive, and social issues that had been ignored for so long started to get the attention they deserved.

Now, let’s take a real-life example to see how this plays out. Consider the story of Rwanda after the 1994 genocide. The country was in shambles, and the community was deeply broken. Yet, one of the pivotal steps in rebuilding Rwanda involved empowering women. The government made a concerted effort to include women in all levels of decision-making. Today, Rwanda has one of the highest percentages of women in parliament in the world—over 60%. This inclusion has led to progressive policies on education, healthcare, and economic development. Rwanda’s dramatic turnaround from a war-torn country to one of the fastest-growing economies in Africa is a testament to the powerful impact of valuing women.

So, how do you apply this wisdom in your own life? Start small. Acknowledge the women around you—your mother, sister, friends, colleagues. Make sure their opinions are heard and valued. If you’re in a position of power, advocate for equal opportunities for women. It’s not just about fairness; it’s about making your community stronger and more cohesive.

Imagine you’re part of a local community group planning a charity event. You’ve got a diverse team, but the women seem to be taking a back seat. You notice this and decide to make a change. You encourage everyone to share their ideas and make sure the women know their contributions are just as important. As a result, the event is a huge success. Not only did you raise more funds, but the women in your group felt empowered and valued. They’re now more engaged and committed to future projects, bringing fresh perspectives and energy.

In essence, valuing women isn’t just a moral imperative—it’s a practical one. When women are respected and their contributions are recognized, the whole community benefits. It’s like tending to a garden; if you only water half the plants, you’ll never see it in full bloom. But when you nurture every part, the garden thrives. So, let’s make sure we’re watering all the plants.