Photo: Other Wild
I have just come from a quick catch up with an 80-year-old, a 50 something-year-old and my 40-year-old self. As I sat quietly watching the interactions unfold, I realised quickly that the opportunities available to my generation have been graciously given from those who have gone before.
There is a rising across the earth today and it is a gift to my daughter’s generation. There is a cry that is unveiling with clarity, that echoes from the wisdom of those who have gone before. There is a confidence that is beaming, from generations who have spoken out on our behalf.
The future is female and no I’m not a raving feminist. Hilary Clinton recently said “The future is female” and the prophetic nature of this statement has been reverberating ever since.
I am a Mum, who is committed to finding her way through the weary weight of expectations, to release and find a voice for those who are coming behind me.
I am dedicated to being the woman I needed when I was a teenager searching for someone who understood.
I am a friend who is showing up, despite my own weariness and cynicism.
I am a wife who is determined that my voice rising, will not silence or distance my husbands, but together we will hold hands and walk towards our tomorrow.
Our online social world has created a platform that brings with it an amazing weight of responsibility. As we casually scroll through the highlight reels of each other’s lives, we are inspired to live with courage like never before.
But the difficult part of this square shaped filtered world, is we don’t see the text message battles that shadow our courage. We don’t see the tears, that stain the beautifully ironed linen pillow cases and we don’t give each other the benefit of the doubt, in the midst of our questions.
The stranger on the internet; she is not your competition.
The friend who has what you have been waiting for; she carries a burden you know nothing about.
The wife who wears the latest fashion; she waits patiently hoping that her attention to detail will be noticed.
The entrepreneur who has launched another business; she is hungry and tired, praying for a break away from it all.
The pastor who disappoints you so often; she is doing the very best she knows how.
The leader who looks like she has it all together; stands in front of her wardrobe wondering whether she can dress for another day.
The writer who published once again; she sits in agony with a studio full of books wondering what she is even doing with her life.
The sister who seems so confident and sure; she drags herself up in the morning hoping that coffee will soothe her anxious heart.
Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about.
Wendy Mass
Today as we celebrate International Women’s day, it is hard to ignore the rise that is dawning.
Wholehearted, Tender Warriors, Friend Keepers, Cheerleaders, Truth-Makers, Way Finders.
“Now more than ever, we need to ‘Be Bold’. We need strong women to step up and speak out. We need you to dare greatly and lead boldly.”
“So please, set an example for every woman and girl out there, who’s worried about what the future holds and wonders whether our rights, opportunities and values will endure.”
“And remember, you are the heroes and history makers, the glass ceiling breakers of the future.”
Hilary Clinton.
The Future Is Female. Step away from the comparison, step aside from competition and step over manipulation. When we create space and room for each other, everybody wins.
Amanda Viviers
My latest book “Dear Single Self” is available to buy here today.
