Husbands nominated wives. Grandchildren nominated grandmothers. Employees nominated employers. Friends nominated friends. Children nominated moms (I’m going to make my kids an instructional video on how to nominate me next year. I can’t win, but it doesn’t mean they can’t nominate me.)
Being a part of our Westport community has unlimited rewards. It also has unlimited challenges. With respect to both, we discerned an important through-line among our WoW nominations: one of benevolence.
I know, I know. “Benevolence” is that fancy word we stumbled onto in the 7th-grade European history book then carelessly thesaurus-ed into our college admissions essay. But when excised from these tedious and cringey reads, it’s an apt term for what we value.
Collectively, these nominations are a tacit admission that, at some point, we all seek comfort and compassion. Not only do we appreciate receiving it, but we are eager to acknowledge those who offer it.
So who offers this?
Women who dedicate themselves to underserved communities; they serve quietly, so you may be surprised to learn what they do.
Women who educate, both academically and in teaching people their self-worth and potential. Those who raise funds, provide companionship and spend countless hours learning about different cultures and traditions so they can best assist adults and children with varied upbringings.
Women who have chosen relentless professions, working beyond expectations to heal and console our family members or tackle difficult financial and medical problems.
Women who founded beloved businesses, focusing their talents on Westport and preserving what makes our town special and unique.
Nominees are lauded for their strength and character, not for their social media following, personal belongings, or luxurious home. If any are lucky enough to have such, it certainly doesn’t define them.
In their volunteer work, profession, family life, and friendships, they want to make someone a bit happier or more secure than they were the day before.
In short, all of these women lead with kindness.
We're always looking for great story ideas! Whether it's a person, a place, history, or another wildly exciting subject, please email me: robin.chung@citylifestyle.com