I’m A Little Teapot

Eleanor Roosevelt was quoted as having said, “A woman is like a tea bag; you never know how strong it is until it's in hot water.”

This quote is dear to my heart for a few reasons. The first is simply for the use of "hot water." I do love the turn of a phrase from days gone by. It seems much more eloquent than saying, "I'm in trouble," or (worse yet) "I'm screwed."

Secondly, while Eleanor was full of great isms, most of which called us to action, challenged us, or gave us hope, this one was more of a promise (or a threat, if you like) and gave credit where credit was severely lacking in her time; to the gentler sex. The message is twofold: 1. If you're a woman, and you're in hot water, you will surprise yourself in ways you never imagined. Seize that hot water as an opportunity to tap your abundant resources, girl! And, 2. Gentlemen, to underestimate a woman would be a mistake. To press her...well, then you're just looking for trouble.

Finally, I think I like this quote because I so greatly admire the woman who uttered it. Here was a great mind, a respected female who paved the way for other strong feminine voices to be heard. She was not judged by her looks, by her wealth, by whom she slept with or for balancing a champagne coup on her rump. She was revered for her wisdom. I, for one, would love to see more of that.