But set against the difficulties and meannesses were heroism, kindness and a sisterly pleasure in other women's triumphs.

ECONOMIST: British bluestockings

As a former banker, I had the pleasure of funding several women start-ups and I enjoyed that more than financing their male counterparts.

FORBES: 4. Minneapolis, MN

Women and children should never be exploited for pleasure or greed anywhere on Earth.

CNN: Transcript of Bush's U.N. address

It is a pleasure to be surrounded by so many talented, accomplished women.

WHITEHOUSE: President Obama Speaks at the White House Forum on Women and the Economy | The White House

Why are so many otherwise professionally savvy women so uncomfortable when it comes to mixing business with pleasure?

FORBES: Mixing Business With Pleasure. Men Do It. Why Do Women Hesitate?