and therefore have an insight far beyond my years. I am quick to analyze and get to

root of a problem, which allows me to be of great benefit to others.

My experiences with abuse have lead me to pursue volunteer work with abused women

and children. I have become an activist within community, speaking out against

violence. I am able to relate well to those in crisis and show deep concern regarding

emotional issues. I have also grown spiritually and feel a deep connection to my religion.

There is a desire to pursue a career in which I can help others grow and develop. The

pain has strengthened my soul and has given me coping skills that most do not have.

My self-esteem and confidence have grown. I feel a deep commitment to family and a

loyalty as a wife, mother and friend. I have an openness to self development, self

awareness and intuitiveness.

I truly believe that there is a reason for everything, including pain. I now try to keep a

positive focus during painful times of my life and I welcome growth that follows.

My outlook is one of steadfast strength and faith. I have learned to also accept

strength of others, strength of God, and to trust again. I have survived

abuse, one of most terrifying and traumatic childhood experiences. That knowledge

alone helps me realize that, as an adult, I can survive just about anything!!

© By Monique Rider 2001

Fortunately my experience has been that it is not employers and co-workers who are resistant to seeing women in leadership roles. Quality tour and guiding companies know that good judgment, experience and attitude play a greater role in hiring a leader then does gender. Instead it is clients, men and women who arrive nervous and excited to experience an adventure, whether it’s on a rock, in mountains or on a river, who have envisioned a strong, fearless leader who does not have breasts.

I led my first trip for a group of women 20 years ago. Today I organize and lead trips for women over 40. Along with being great fun, these exclusive groups allow women unique opportunity to see other women in positions of power and control, to witness a group of women working out problems and dealing with host of challenges encountered on a river trip or while traveling abroad.

By supporting each other and being open to seeing women in leadership roles women help each other to succeed and achieve more than they thought possible. As more and more women become visible in outdoor recreation and leadership I suspect day isn’t too far off when we’re met with exclamation “OH GREAT, A WOMAN!” As for fellow on canoe trip in New Zealand; I had to rescue him and his canoe after he flipped in first rapid, but it wasn’t until I barbecued a perfect medium rare steak that he was truly impressed. Go figure.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Debbie Jacobs, founder and president of Explorations in Travel, http://www.exploretravel.com, organizes outdoor and cultural adventures for women over 40 and arranges individual volunteer placements in Latin America, South Pacific and Nepal. She lives in southern Vermont with too many dogs. She can be contacted at explore@sover.net. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Copyright 2000-by Debbie Jacobs This article may be reprinted as long as: 1.) It is reprinted in its entirety 2.) The byline remains intact