Matriarch

Well to me, the word matriarch means a very dignified old lady who's every word is the law to her family. She may be the great-great grandmother who is very authoritative and strong on the outside but very soft inside.

This is an atonement day I can see. I see a matriarch as someone that holds a senior position in the family earned from their knowledge and life skills. They are trusted and respected by their family and are usually the first port of call when their children are in need. I don't see an old lady with a pipe giving orders. Rather a gentle and wise woman who is much loved and revered.

Well, the first image I got in my head was a man so that's not right but then when my head corrected itself, there was a lady sort of a crossed between a Queen and a Matron with short curly hair who was strict but fair. Just like you.:P

Hmmmmmm, let's see...to me when I think of a matriarch I picture a much older woman who has an 'in charge' personality and isn't afraid to use it. I see her as firm, unyielding, & opinionated, yet fair. I think of her as the Grand Damme of the family. I don't really think of her as a totally controlling person, but one who makes sure everything gets done and is proper.

A Mummy elephant reading a story to lots of little elephants. Matriarch is a very elephanty word.

I see an older woman with grey hair, in a tight bun. She has stern, strong features with twinkling, intelligent, kind eyes and is dressed in classic style. She is surrounded by a loving, trusting family who respect and admire her without question.

An old elegant looking lady is sitting on an antique traditional wooden chair with beautiful carvings. After having a sip of hot tea she placed the cup back to the table beside her. While wiping her lips with a big hankerchief she gives orders to her family sitting on both sides of her.