Had the pleasure today to be told that I am one mean bitch. And got a glare that was quite nasty when I sincerely responded, "Thank you." Apparently my sincerity merely confirmed my place in Bitchdom, by a total stranger, mind you.

Someone needs to explain to me why a strong, educated, determined and street-smart but professional woman immediately garners the reputation of being a bitch when she does not comply with the every wish of those around her. Have I somehow reached the age of 45 and not been made privy to some time honored secret? Was I meant to be some sort of doormat, catering to the every whim of those who feel that are better than I am? Am I not allowed to question authority and those not of authority?

I was blessed to be raised by a very strong woman - who taught me lessens that I hold true to my core each and every day of my life. The two most vital of those lessons were to always be in control of my life and destiny and to always be justifiable for my actions. I have lived my life, good, bad or really ugly holding those pearls of wisdom before me - always keeping the eye on the prize, so to speak.

Surprisingly, I have found over the years, other women, who hold these same pearls of wisdom before themselves, proudly carrying themselves as strong, independent women. One such woman once told me that she was proud to be a bitch...B.I.T.C.H.: a Babe In Total Control of Herself. I liked it then and I like it now.

So to the man, who was kind enough to push me against the door in your great haste to get off the train this evening and nearly trampled the elderly gentleman who I was trying to assist off the train - Thank you for the compliment - I take it knowing that this bitch is better than you.