What does it mean to be a woman of power?
This is a vexing question with an extensive history of pain and struggle. As is the case of most super heroes - so at least we are in good company. From a young age most women are taught to be polite, at the detriment of their comfort and self-worth. We are told that our value is contingent on how we look and how we are perceived by everyone. Not just men, but the entire world. So it is in our best interest to weigh around 110 pounds, with zero cellulite, perfect hair and possess the sweetest most down to earth disposition with a little sass, but not too much sass. And if you happen to be a woman who cannot fit yourself neatly into this category – you’re basically in trouble. And sometimes, you will be made to feel ashamed about this and even be taken advantage of. After all - aren’t you the free-loving-woman who isn’t supposed to be taken seriously? And if you complain, you have allowed yourself to become jaded.
I don’t know about you but I’ve had just about enough. In the words of Rhett Butler, "Frankly, my dear, I don't give a damn.” Because that’s what it takes nowadays to reclaim your power as a female. You cannot allow anyone to dictate what you should and should not be. If you want to be a mother at 45 then you be a mother at 45. If you want to dedicate your life to traveling and exploring the world – for God’s sake do it zealously and do not apologize for it. This is our time to claim everything that has been taken away from us. It won’t be easy, it never is. But you will be building bridges for the future bad-ass women who will need your strength and courage. Be who you want to be. Surround yourself with people who inspire the very best in you, and who will never demand you to be anything else. You may have to stand alone at times, but never doubt that you aren’t doing the right thing. If you chose to settle, make sure that you can live with yourself. So that when you’re old and grey you can stare back at the mirror and say- you did me proud kid.
And yes in this post I am in my birthday suit in one of my favorite places - my bathtub. Because that's my secret pleasure - a good book and a good soak. Oh and a glass of cold almond milk in a champagne flute. And I am not about to apologize for it.
Love and Light,
Griselle
*Today March 8th we observe #ADayWithoutWomen - in reverence to International Women's Day and the enormous value that women of all backgrounds add to our socioeconomic system, while receiving lower wages and experiencing greater inequities, vulnerability to discrimination, sexual harassment and job insecurity.
Three action items are:
1. Women take the day off work.
2. Exclusively shop at "small, women- and minority-owned businesses."
3. Wear red "in solidarity."
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