I have an observation that I have developed over many years: Anything that men can do, women can often do better. I watched Neva J face daunting tasks as a single mom with wit and humor. She took classes in photography and had the heart of a saint. Although we had little, I knew she would always provide for me and her. If someone was in need, she always shared what she had.

MJ has always been smarter and more skilled than me. I owe my success to her. Her analytical thinking and problem-solving skills are exemplary. MJ taught in a church school for five years. Her professional services were donated. MJ taught Aaron and Jonathon at home for several years so that I could be with them during the day as I worked nights.

My friend Elizabeth is brilliant. The work that she has done at Southern Illinois University is worth countless more than she has been paid. Added to all of her duties she leads the Civil Service Council and has achieved many benefits for the Civil Service Community.

My friend Cyndy is compassionate and adept at administration. She cared for her mother for many years and she is a wonderful singer. Her glowing personality draws all who meet her.

I have watched sexism and misogyny all of my life. Men who think that they have more ability than women due to their gender. Men who do not trust women leaders. It is an abomination to marginalize the skills and brainpower of women. Many of them have forgotten more than we men know. Historically men work their eight hours and come home to put their feet up and enjoy sports and a beer. Their female partners know the first eight was half of their daily shift. Women manage their homes and plan their daily activities. And we hope they are not stressed…

My friend Margo writes blogs and books that I learn from. A caring person who does little more than smile when she encounters male hubris.

Women search for answers and then implement them. Women are doers, not talkers. Women create compromise which is the oil that keeps the engine of life running.

My sister Marcy has fortitude like a rock. She is brilliant and never brags. She speaks with a glance.

Let us think again about our outdated beliefs regarding women. They are the answer to many of our endemic problems. They do not seek to belittle but to lift up.