Passing it on

"A woman with a voice is by definition a strong woman. But the search to find that voice can be remarkably difficult." ~Melinda Gates

There have been, and continues to be, a lot of strong women in my life. The one with the most impact on my life was my mother and I know that she has made an impact on the lives of others as well. I consider myself lucky that she was able to share herself with me and that her friends now do the same. I'm taking that into my own life and passing it on. 

I have my own groups of girl people. Women who are each amazing in their own right and who are growing from strength to strength each day. We are trying, individually and collectively, to be the best that we can be. It's a process... parts of everyday life that makes up a whole.

Today I had lunch with one of my cousins. She turned 16 this year... I do not know how she's gotten so old so quickly. I've been trying to remember what my thoughts and feelings were at that age. Trying to place myself in her shoes so that I can pass on what I have learnt. How do I let her know that she can be whoever she wants to be? That she will have as much support as she needs? That she is free to make her own choices whether for good or ill and someone will be there always? That she can do much more than she thinks she can.

I'm trying to lead by example. Letting myself be who I want to be. Trusting that all will be well and that there is support whether I need it or not. These are things I've learnt and am continuing to learn. I'm passing it on.

peace,

Ren

The Power of the Group...

"We must remember that one determined person can make a significant difference, and that a small group of determined people can change the course of history." ~Sonia Johnson 

I've been thinking about people coming together... it seems that now more than ever it's easy to form groups according to our likes, dislikes, principles, beliefs, choice of entertainment, choice of food... anything really. It's so easy to become a part of something or to speak up about something without actively getting out and about. I'm an on-line activist - I sign petitions with Avaaz.org, Greenpeace, WWF and miscellaneous Care2 petitions that I take an interest in. It makes me feel like a part of something - gives me the assurance that even in my everyday life I can make a difference through my signature and contributions. 

One organised event struck me this week: SlutWalk Toronto - which took place yesterday (April 3rd). This event was organised in response to an officer of the Toronto Police Force suggesting that 'women can avoid sexual assault by not dressing like a “slut.”' I'm in full support of any event like this - it should not matter in any way how a woman is dressed and in fact this reminds me a bit of my short skirt post... What struck me from the event page? These paragraphs below - clearly a call to action and clearly showing what is needed:

"We are a movement demanding that our voices be heard. We are here to call foul on our Police Force and demand change. We want Toronto Police Services to take serious steps to regain our trust. We want to feel that we will be respected and protected should we ever need them, but more importantly be certain that those charged with our safety have a true understanding of what it is to be a survivor of sexual assault — slut or otherwise.

We are tired of speeches filled with lip service and the apologies that accompany them. What we want is meaningful dialogue and we are doing something about it: WE ARE COMING TOGETHER. As people from all gender expressions and orientations, all walks of life, levels of employment and education, all races, ages, abilities, and backgrounds, from all points of this city and elsewhere."

I guess it struck home for me. People (men and women) need to know where they stand on issues such as this and then it can follow that further issues can be discussed and developed. 

peace,

Ren

Manipura - Fire, Ego identity, oriented to self-definition...

"The point of power is always in the present moment." ~ Louise Hay

I really must remember that at the very heart of it - I'm a powerful being. Don't worry reader... You are too... You just may not know it yet. 

In my second post on this blog I said that I was tired... and needed to manifest vitality. On Easter Monday I went to a Youth workshop at the Blue Star - topic of the workshop: Working with the Manipura Chakra. Hmm. 

For those who aren't much in the know about the Chakra System - the chakras are energy centres linking the physical and subtle bodies... more info can be found here: Sacred Centers - The Chakra Portal ... There are seven major ones and the third is the Manipura Chakra which is known as the power chakra and is located at the solar plexus. It relates to a person's vitality, effectiveness, spontaneity and overall power.  

Ask and you shall receive... it's a principle I must remember. Shall be working with this chakra for some time... Increased vitality shall be mine!

peace,

Rtr