The theme of this Women’s History Month is “Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories.”
It encourages “recognition of women, past and present, who have been active in all forms of media and storytelling including print, radio, TV, stage, screen, blogs, podcasts, and more” and “honors women in every community who have devoted their lives and talents to producing art, pursuing truth, and reflecting the human condition decade after decade,” recognizing that “[w]omen have long been instrumental in passing on our heritage in word and in print to communicate the lessons of those who came before us. Women’s stories, and the larger human story, expand our understanding and strengthen our connections with each other.”
Celebrating the women who tell our stories underscores the importance of telling women’s stories to begin with. And, in that, the importance of telling our own. Embracing our own. Writing our own…
One of my favorite things about writing is the way past me often hands the baton to present me as they prepare the notes for future me. Usually without any of us realizing or fully appreciating it until later. As a result, I’ve come to think of my writing as love notes to my future self. And, while that’s enough, my hope is that these love notes assist and inspire others on their journeys as well.
I remember a time not too long ago when the thought of sharing my work stopped me from creating altogether. Funny thing, though. When I pushed past my fear, creating, then sharing, my work…sharing my voice…it resonated. Deep inside.
Then…people started reaching out to let me know something I said was exactly what they needed to hear. And, I realized I am speaking to them too. Somehow, I am leaving breadcrumbs for their future selves when I leave them for mine. Maybe something I experienced is something they can relate to. Maybe it’s something they’re in the thick of right now. Maybe it’s a way of paying it forward. Maybe it’s just a little ditty to let them know they’re not alone. None of us is alone…
This month especially, I have been reflecting on how often I have blessedly been on the receiving end of this kind of serendipitous synchronicity. Reading the right thing at the right time. Someone daring to be brave at the very moment I needed a model for courage. Someone’s boldness redefining the limits of what is possible. Which is why I love the theme of this Women’s History Month. Because, it makes a difference. Individually and, all the more so, collectively.
Each of us holds a torch. And, together, we can light up the night.
Today (and every day), I celebrate all the women bravely shining their light and telling our stories!