"One is happy as a result of one's own efforts, once one knows of the necessary ingredients of happiness — simple tastes, a certain degree of courage, self-denial to a point, love of work, and, above all, a clear conscience. Happiness is no vague dream, of that I now feel certain."

— George Sand

We are blessed to live in a time where we can be strong without having to hide under the guise of a masculine pseudonym, such as George Sand had to do. Whether as a mother, sister or friend, we have all seen the way that feminine strength can ease sorrow, fears and guide some of the deepest relationships we have in life.

A recent study showed that subjects (both men and women) who spend the same amount of time with a woman versus the same amount of time with a man reported feeling less lonely after their time spent with a woman. Woman's ability to bond, connect and empathize is one of our greatest strengths and something we should feel proud of. And even if the boyfriend or husband is out for "guy's night," he will feel his most exuberant when he knows he has a good woman who truly understands and listens to him. This is not to put down the contribution of male relationships, but to show how important we all are to one another.

And in the words of Kenneth Parcell of 30 Rock "Miss Lemon, there’s a reason God gave us two ears and one mouth. Listening is more important than talking. But He gave us 10 fingers! God must really want us to poke things!"