I first met the character at the age of about 13 years, my friend had the game. I was amazed by the story, Lara’s bravery and mostly, of course, her physical abilities. I dare say it affected my greatly and in a very good way.

I will not be getting into the games, films and all the violence, tomb raiding and killing. What I took out has nothing to do with this.

When I felt down, and that was often in my teens and some years after, Lara’s strength helped me get through. I sort of channeled her and asked myself what Lara would do in my situation. That helped me immensely as I got out of various uncomfortable situations way more confident than I would have.

Lara was probably a subtile reason for me to start training karate, which I replaced after about a year, with Ninjutsu. I’m very grateful to have had the chance to become acquainted with this martial art which is not only that – it’s a lifestyle. Even though I’m not training anymore due to time constraint, the base stayed in my lifestyle. It truly makes one a better person and improves one’s life.

Lara is so many things… We could start with her strength – mental and physical. Even though the character was created by men (so I’ve read), it affected many girls and women across the world in a positive way. Since she is so strong, she is also brave and follows her own path achieving her goals no matter what. That’s what I learned from her, we all can.

Of course she has her flaws – she is presented as perfect (not in the latest two games and film, though, which is awesome), but that is her own perfection. And what has ever been wrong with finding and owning our own perfection? If you have an answer to this, do present it to us.

Be strong, be daring, BSL