October is the month of harvest, reflection and thanksgiving. It would be wonderful if everyone could take the opportunity this month to consider the gains we have harvested from those women who fought for us, to reflect on the work yet to be done and to give thanks to all those who have helped and inspired us.

Lists on message boards on blogs reciting the gains of feminism are like roses blossoming across the web.

The hateful messages of those who encourage the denial of funds for women’s rights, who fight against reproductive rights, and encourage governments to turn a blind eye to human rights remind us of the fight still ongoing, of the thorns we have yet to navigate.

There are so many women to inspire us. Some have made history, and some have not. It is not the fame that any of these women achieved it is the strength they imparted, the wisdom they shared and the example they provided that makes them great and deserving of our thanks.

Let us take our rich bouquet and nourish it, ensure that it does not fade or die, and that while other feminists may arrange their bouquets differently in ways which reflect their circumstances or culture, they are all beautiful reflections of the strength, passion and dignity of all women.