Ava and International Women's Day
“Here’s to strong women. May we know them. May we be them. May we raise them.”
I am a blessed Auntie. I have 6 nephews and just 1 niece. Although she’s the only little gal in the family, she holds her own in this group of energetic boys which I really love about her. She is equal parts girly and adventurously tough. It’s been so fun connecting with her and getting to know her sweet personality as she gets older.
I thought about her today since it’s both her birthday and International Women’s Day. I love that her birthday fell on a day that celebrates the power, future, and contributions made by women. I feel a specific responsibility to continue down the road that so many paved for me and continue that for her. There’s a poem from Rupi Kaur that I love that speaks to this so deeply:
“I stand on the sacrifices of a million women before me thinking what can I do to make this mountain taller so the women after me can see farther.”
The fact that this day exists brings me a lot of hope for the world that she will grow up in. I dream of it being a place she can grow up using her unique voice to create change, share her perspective, and join a sisterhood of powerful women.
HOPES:
I hope she grows up in a world that gives women a seat at the table.
I hope she is valued for her heart, mind, and spirit vs. the fact that she is beautiful.
I hope she finds a career that utilizes how smart and kind she is.
I hope she feels whole in who she is and realizes the power women hold.
I hope she is always surrounded by strong, brave, open women who always encourage her to be herself.
I hope she seeks a life of unlimited adventure.
I hope she understands the magical significance of both her birthday and this day of celebration.
Happy Birthday sweet Ava and Happy International Women’s Day to all of you.
Sincerely,
Ashley