Jacqui Frampton who chairs the WIBN Yeovil group read out this inspirational poem at the beginning of our meeting on 8 March which was also International Women's Day. I thought it was very apt.

Courage does not always Roar

A poem by Paula Fox

When life gets you down and the problems you face Are certainly more than your share When you run out of strength and want to give up Because it’s just too much to bear I want to remind you my precious friend, That you have what it takes inside Extra courage that may not ROAR But does not cower and hide

It’s the quiet voice inside you that says “Tomorrow I’ll try again” It’s the courage to keep on going To see things through to the end You are not defined by this moment in time You are not what has happened to you It’s the way you choose to respond that matters and what you decide to do Courage is not the absence of fear, but a powerful choice we make.

It’s the choice to move forward with purpose and joy, regardless of what it takes It’s the courage that’s found in ordinary women, who are heroes in their own way Exhibiting faith and strength in life’s challenges every day

Valiant women of exceptional courage, with enduring power to cope Taking each problem one day at a time and never giving up hope They give themselves the permission they need, to feel disappointed or sad But then empower themselves with Faith to focus on good things not bad

Their story is one of gentle strength, reminding us all once more Steel is sometimes covered in velvet And Courage does not always ROAR