I have a theory that women are generally given space and

Hear the words of Christine Lagarde, a leader of nations and a voice of clear wisdom: “I have a theory that women are generally given space and appointed to jobs when the situation is tough. I've observed that in many instances. In times of crisis, women eventually are called upon to sort out the mess, face the difficult issues, and be completely focused on restoring the situation.” Though spoken in the present age, these words bear the cadence of eternal truth. They reveal the hidden rhythm of history, where the world, in its moments of turmoil, turns to those whose strength is forged not in pride but in endurance, not in display but in quiet and relentless resolve.

The meaning strikes with the weight of both sorrow and honor. It is sorrowful, for too often the world calls upon women only when chaos has overtaken its prideful architects. Yet it is also honorable, for when the storm rises and the fragile walls of certainty crumble, it is the women—steady, steadfast, unyielding—who enter the ruins and rebuild what seemed lost. Lagarde’s words are not speculation but testimony, born of her watchful gaze over nations and markets that have known both triumph and collapse.

Look to the story of Margaret Thatcher, the “Iron Lady.” She was summoned to lead Britain in a time of economic despair and political unrest, when inflation, unemployment, and unrest clouded the land. Many doubted her resolve, but her strength became the pivot of a nation’s survival. Or remember Eleanor Roosevelt, who stepped forward in the shadows of the Great Depression and World War II, guiding not only her husband but an entire people with her vision of justice and her courage to speak for the voiceless. In each of these moments, the world’s crises unveiled the hidden reservoir of female leadership, proving again what Lagarde declares: in times of peril, the daughters of endurance are summoned.

This pattern stretches back to the ancients. In the ashes of Troy, it was Andromache and the women of the fallen city who preserved the memory of their people, even as the proud warriors perished. In the Hebrew scriptures, when Israel faltered, it was Deborah, a prophetess, who rose to lead armies and judge her people with wisdom. In every age, the lesson echoes: when the foundations tremble, the world turns not to those who chase glory, but to those who bear responsibility with clarity and courage.

Lagarde’s insight also unveils a challenge. Why must the world wait for crisis before entrusting women with power? Why should their gifts be recognized only when the mess is unbearable? This, too, must be pondered. The wisdom of the ancients tells us that the seed should not be cast only when famine has begun, but in the days of plenty, that the harvest may come in due season. So it should be with leadership: appoint women not only as saviors in distress, but as stewards in times of peace.

The lesson for us, children of the present, is both practical and moral. Recognize the strength that often hides in plain sight. Do not wait until ruin has come before you grant space to those who can heal. Whether in nations, in families, or in the smallest circle of friends, honor the quiet power of those who bring restoration. Empower them early, and crises may not grow so dire.

Practical action flows from this teaching: seek out and uplift female voices in every sphere of life, not merely as emergency measures, but as ongoing pillars of wisdom. Listen to those who see differently, for in diversity of vision lies resilience. And in your own life, do not fear being called into the storm; for often it is in the darkest hour that your strength will be revealed, and in that revelation, others may find the courage to stand.

Take these words as a guiding flame: when the world is shaken, it will look to those who can endure. Let us not forget Christine Lagarde’s wisdom, but live it—by preparing now, by uplifting now, by entrusting leadership not to pride, but to those who are willing to restore, to mend, and to carry the burden of others with unshakable resolve.