We Can Do It!!!

I came across an article today.  Rosie the Riveter died on December 26, 2010 at a hospice in Lansing, Michigan.  She was 86 and her name was Geraldine.  At 17 years old, she was a factory worker and her photo was taken.  The man in charge of producing morale-boosting poster saw the photo and a legend was born.

Unfortunately, Geraldine did not learn of this fact until 40 years later.  She left the factory job after less than two weeks for a safer position.  Her non-war time profession was as a cellist and she did not want her hands injured.  Now, her life was full without the title of “Rosie the Riveter”.  She worked until she married a Dentist and had 5 children, 18 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren.  

After learning of her association to the famous Rosie, she signed poster until her arthritis made her unable to write.  Geraldine never made a cent from all the merchandise then and now that bears her likeness.

This article made me think... I have a poster of her in my home office.  I have had it there for years.  I even have a Rosie the Riveter collectible figurine.  I always like the simplicity of the statement “We Can Do It”.  It is as valid for women today as it was 70 years ago.  We never know how strong we can be until being strong is the only choice we have.  I have always felt that I was an independent woman.  Worked for my paycheque, took care of the home, did the finances, etc... but, I am grateful that I have always had people to fall back on if needed.

These past two weeks I have been getting the house ready to sell.  I have painted, plastered, tiled, grouted, put in new flooring and cleaned like I have never cleaned before.  The house looks amazing and I am quite proud of myself... I Can Do It!!!  But something is missing....

Although I still have support from family and friends, I no longer have  my husband, my  soul mate, my best friend;  someone to tell the stories of the day and to share in the accomplishments of my life.  Maybe that is the worst part of divorce.  We all have the ability to stand on our own two feet and conquer anything... but it is missing something if there is no-one to share it with.