MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. -- Altruism, intelligent nurturing and inspiration are qualities of womanhood needed in today's workplace, the wing chaplain said March 26 as the featured speaker at the Maxwell-Gunter Women's History Month luncheon at the Maxwell Officers' Club.

"Women, we all are standing on the shoulders of other women -- guys too -- whether it's your mother, your wife, your sister or a former supervisor," said Chap. (Lt. Col.) Terese Erickson, 42nd Air Base Wing chaplain. Womanhood, as well as manhood, needs to be celebrated.

Altruism, or unselfishness, was defined as "right motive," and she urged that, although altruism is a characteristic of true womanhood, men will also "soar" when they stay focused on altruistic motives.

With regard to intelligent nurturing, the chaplain stated the measurement of a society is how well it takes care of the least powerful, including women and children, "and it can only do this by listening to them."

Air Force men and women can inspire each other with love, gentleness, fairness and peace, stressed the chaplain.

"These qualities are desperately needed in our work-force and world today. What's more, they can counter a history of the world's neglectfulness," she said.

Several times in her speech, Chaplain Erickson expressed gratitude for the opportunities she's had, saying it's a vital part of celebrating womanhood in the workplace. The University of Minnesota graduate also spoke of her years playing volleyball for the university.

The colonel told listeners that women were created with "dominion," not to dominate or be dominated. She said that dominion may be used to overcome limitations and to care for others.

"Know who you are. Know what you are about! And rise to the altitude of true womanhood," she said.

Women's committee chairperson Elva Harris commended the keynote speaker.

"Our chaplain touched all aspects of women's contributions," she said. "We enjoyed her speaking of the blending that takes place between we women and our male coworkers."

After the luncheon, Chaplain Erickson reflected on the event saying she appreciates the women at Maxwell and Gunter.

"Today's program reflected the quality and classiness of their work, as well as their wonderful sense of humor," she said.