This day is a little magic for me. In the morning my mom sends a text message: "Happy 8th of March, my daughter!" - and I smile. A friend unexpectedly texts, "You're awesome, and I'm proud of you!" - and I feel warm. Even a stranger's grandfather with flowers in the park makes me smile.

Yes, there are stereotypical congratulations that sound as if we are appreciated only for beauty and tenderness. But I try to just filter out the unnecessary and embrace the good. Because on this day I feel: there really is more goodness around.

So let it be. Let men remember that there are strong, smart, beautiful women around them. Let girls hug each other and say, "You're awesome, and I'm glad you are." Let it be spring.