It has taken me a long time to find a voice and the confidence to use it. I’ve always held opinions, but for years I was busy just holding hands. Little hands, old hands. Now those little hands have grown up, the old hands have passed away, and I find myself with time on my hands. I have time and health and energy and a desire to make a difference.
I feel a bit like a new born – a new born old lady. I’m finding my legs – and they are willing to march. I’m finding a backbone – and a desire to stand up for things that mean something to me. And I’m finding my voice to speak up for causes that hit my heart.
I feel the need to leave a mark on this world – to improve it, to make it a better place for the generations who will inherit it. My generation has contributed a lot of great things to humanity, and continues to do that, but we have also been thoughtless of many of the consequences of our progress. Our planet is paying the price of that thoughtlessness.
I hold political opinions but don’t feel the need to push them on those around me. I vote MY conscience and hope that others get out to vote theirs as well. Politicians come and go; dictators die, regimes fall and super powers eventually loose those super powers. I don’t feel the need to make a lot of noise about any of that. After I’ve voted, politics to me is a spectator sport. The effects of the politics is something else – I am willing to make noise about that.
As a grandmother I feel it is my responsibility to care about what I’m leaving behind. I used to hate it when the kids just closed the door on the mess in their room. I’m planning to tidy up a bit before I go. I’m going to pick up a broom and participate in the movement that is sweeping the planet.
On this International Women’s Day I’m going to commit to doing my part. I’m going to stand up, speak up and show up.
Comments (1)
Good on ya Girl!