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December 28, 2014
News: "We Need To Talk": an All Female Sports Talk show!
Congrats to the co-host of the 1ST All Female Sports Talk show
"We Need To Talk"!
Gone are the days when folks get to say
"womyn do not like sports"!
#tuneIn
December 26, 2014
December 21, 2014
Today's Thoughts: The "Race Talk" on The View
Seems like "hot topics" exploded on The View!
Weigh in an tell us your thoughts!
December 10, 2014
Today's Inspiration: "We.Women" Photo Project by Neringa Rekasiute
Lithuanian photographer Neringa Rekasiute's powerful new photo project poses this very question. Through her work, she is trying to put the power to decide what makes a "beautiful woman" back in our hands -- one woman at a time. Click HERE to read more from the Huffington Post
December 6, 2014
November 29, 2014
Today's Inspiration: "Race Ya" by Katherine Fritz
Her latest blog post: "Race Ya" has sparked smiles in a sea of frowns! Read an excerpt below then take some time to explore more. Trust us, it's worth it!
"I am a white person.
I am occasionally a little bit clueless.
I am sometimes a bit racist.
Okay, now, hold on, everybody! I’m not, like, proud of that statement. The only people who are proud of that statement … I actually don’t know anyone who is proud of that statement. White supremacists? Hitler youth? No one wants to be racist. That’s why people begin statements that are usually super racist with the phrase “I don’t want to sound racist, but…”
(Tip: If you start a sentence that way, you are almost always going to say something incredibly racist).
I don’t want to be racist. No one actually wants to be a racist.
But I have been known to say or do clueless, ignorant, or hurtful things before, because of a subconscious prejudice against people who don’t look like me.
Do I enjoy the experience of owning up to that fact? Hell, no. It feels fucking terrible to admit that.
But I know it to be true. I have unpacked some of my past shitty behaviors and understood them for what they are. And I’m afraid — no, I mean it, actually afraid — that as educated as I am, as hard as I try to change this about myself, some of that subliminal bias is just never going to be completely erased..." Click HERE to read more!!
November 21, 2014
Letters/Notes: from Bianca Singleton
Dearest Bianca,
Do you remember in Mr. Fishweicher's class where he had the whole class write a letter to themselves that he would mail at a later date? Well, this is just like that only a. better and b. you'll actually receive it. I mean really Mr. Fishweicher totally never mailed that letter. What a bummer because that may have been pleasant. Any who, right now you're smack dab in the middle of operation get it together so that you can get out of Brooklyn, WOOT! and you're doing pretty well. How do I know? Because I am a Cyborg sent from the future to tell you all of this, I'm like Neo from the Matrix, time doesn't exist, you took the red pill kiddo. Ok, ok, ok I'm joking, obviously, but wouldn't that be awesome?!?!? I think it would be awesome, I'm sure you think it would be awesome.
Now on to serious business, in 12 years you will be writing this letter to yourself. Right now everything seems overwhelming and like it will never get easier, but know that your situation will change, your perspective will change, and you will change. With hindsight being 20/20 there are a lot of decisions that you have yet to make that may in fact cause more harm than good. And while I am not a person of regret, and obviously you aren't either, I've compiled a list of things that you should know.
Hopefully you will make many of the same decisions because where you end up in life is pretty awesome, but I hope the following points will help you reach the same destination easier and more fulfilled. Here it goes: 1. Do not engage in the foolery of this summer. Yes you will be tempted to prove your "courage" and you will even feel provoked, but "hood cred" will be worth absolutely nothing in a few years. 2. Your next boyfriend is a dud. You will know this in your heart from the beginning but you will try to convince yourself that entering this relationship will not hurt anyone, you're wrong. It will hurt more people than you could even imagine and the lasting effects will be great. He's not worth it, trust me! 3. Appreciate your real friendships starting today. Pay attention! The people that are in your life right now, will be gone soon. Those that will enter in the next year, the ones who really are a part of your everyday life, are the ones that will be there 10+ years from now. Treasure them. You will lose people that are not right for you, and that is ok. Follow your instincts. Accept it and move on, no guilt, no regrets, because you will never understand the actions of these people. 4. Forgive. It is completely ok to not forget what has happened, but you will become a prisoner to the resentment that lives in your heart if you don't forgive. People can and will change, and it will be because you showed them the way with your own forgiveness. Yes, forgive her, him, and him too. 5. Spend time with your family especially your little siblings. They will not be small forever, and these years are crucial for them. You can help them avoid a lot of hardship and mistakes. 6. Join as many clubs as you can stand, and follow as many passions as you can think up. You have real passion and vision right now, and you will be intimidated and/or talked out of a lot of things in the next few years due to fear. Don't be afraid! Dare to be great! You will go to College and do all of the "right" things, but don't let anyone but you dictate your path. 7. Think long and hard about what makes you happy. Study abroad, learn 5 languages, write, paint, explore, stay on top of those academic advisors though, because no one has the time to play with Temple for more than 4 years. You will not become a forensic Anthropologist because the money is not going to work for you, so save yourself some trouble, major in computer science or engineering, or move to an island and get your Bohemian on. But not for long because again your life will be pretty darn fantastic a few years after College graduation. 8. Over the next few years, the world will become a very strange place, but remember the following: Facebook- a social media site that will take over the Universe that allows everyone to stay connected. Next year Go to Harvard, find Mark Zuckerberg and be awesome! YouTube- a site that will be the go to resource for songs, music videos, and random video content that will cause you to literally waste 18 million hours of your life, but you'll totally be ok with it. Instagram- facebook but with pictures and memes of ridiculous things. Snapchat- Instagram on speed, 15 seconds and then self destruction... I think. I'm not really sure how it works. Twitter- facebook with a 140 character limit, you will think it's lame, but it is worth it. Oovoo and Skype- both enable you to video chat. Yes you read that right, you can see the person you are talking to, no more calls from the toilet... but then again..., ok never mind. Apple- you don't need to know anything else but iPhone, Linkedin=facebook for corporate/working folk, pick 1 or all of them and either come up with it first *cough* Instagram *cough*, or be an investor and you shan't be disappointed. 9. You will attend Temple University, TU, and have some of the best times of your life, immerse yourself in the college experience and enjoy. You will have the rest of your life to be responsible and work and pay bills, but you will regret all of the memories you never got to have because you were busy being an adult long before you had to. 10. When all else fails, listen to your instincts. Whenever you get a feeling in your stomach and chest, do not ignore it no matter how ridiculous you may think you are being.
Follow your intuition, it will not mislead you.
You are more awesome and amazing than even you know, and you will do amazing things. Make a difference, follow my advice, and help make me rich, financially that is, because you are already and will continue to be extremely rich in even more important ways. Love always.
Over and Out!
Learn more about Bianca HERE!
November 5, 2014
November 4, 2014
Events/Performances: One Evening At St. Lucia
About "One Evening At St. Lucia": The mission of Luke Allen Productions is to create grassroots theater that brings awareness to the community about issues that are representative of the disenfranchised. "One Evening at St. Lucia’s" was written, to give voice to women who suffer addictions and for those women who sometimes find themselves in circumstances that are often beyond their control, only because they wanted to be loved or wanted to give their love to someone. It is a story about finding one’s truth and acceptance of oneself. It also offers meaning to the work of those who dedicate their lives to working with those who are in addictions.
Click HERE to listen to the cast on PR Radio Station's #1 program Queer 2 The T!
Click HERE to learn more about the playwright Luke Allen!
October 27, 2014
Myn Voices: Luke Allen
Luke Allen, founder of Luke Allen Productions, was born and raised in the Scranton, Wilkes Barre area. He has been a resident of the Philadelphia area since 1983. He is a recovering addict with 22 years sobriety. He has a Bachelor’s degree in Human Services from Chestnut Hill College with a specialty in Addictions Counseling. His employment has included working with battered women in shelter and in area drug and alcohol programs with women and men who have suffered addictions. He is a member of the GLBTQ community, and joined the Trans community in 2008. He acted as playwright, director, and producer of The Wire Monkey in 2012; Executive Producer of Going, Wanting for Puddy Dance Project 2014, Executive Producer of the film Ardmore Junction 2014. Currently, he is the playwright and producer of One Evening at St. Lucia. He has written and will produce his next musical, Hard in the Spring of 2015. For more information about Luke Allen Productions, click here.
October 26, 2014
October 24, 2014
Events/Performances: The Women Gather Project
Grace Drums
presents
The Women Gather Project: Drumming With a Mission
Date: Saturday, November 01, 2014
Time: 7:30 PM
Kumble Theater for the Performing Arts
One University Plaza
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Phone: (718) 488-1624
Email: info@kumbletheater.org
Website: http://www.kumbletheater.org
October 23, 2014
October 14, 2014
October 12, 2014
October 11, 2014
Today's Quotes/News: The Sincerely, she Project partners with Proud 2 Be Out Magazine!
October 10, 2014
Today's Quotes/News: "Men, Women & Children" opens October 17th
The Sincerely, she Project was invited to a press screening of "Men, Women, & Children" and it was an eye-opening experience.
This film highlights "things we don't know about people we know" and the search for positive human connections as a whole.
A must see film for families with teenagers!
Today's Quotes/News: Congrats to Malala & Kailash for Winning the Nobel Peace Prize
October 8, 2014
September 19, 2014
Today's Quotes/News: SheRides App Delayed in NYC
"SheRides, an app designed to connect female customers with female livery car drivers, was scheduled to launch Tuesday, September 16th. Instead, citing a strong demand, company officials announced that before it launches it will hold a ramped-up recruitment drive to boost the number of its affiliated drivers". Read more HERE!
September 13, 2014
September 11, 2014
Today's Quotes/News: SheRides App
A cab/livery service dedicated to the safety of womyn, for womyn & by womyn debuts Tuesday, September 16th in New York City, Westchester County and Long Island!
This company is an exclusive service for womyn with womyn drivers.
NOTE: If you party is looking to use SheRides,
there must be womyn in your group for them to provide you with service.
Congrats SheRides and looking forward to your success!
For detailed information on the company, click HERE!
September 10, 2014
Today's Inspiration: 94 Years of Friendship w/Irene & Alice
100 year olds Irene and Alice school the new generation
on what friendship/sisterhood really looks like!
Thank you gals!
September 5, 2014
August 27, 2014
August 24, 2014
August 23, 2014
Today's Inspiration: Jessica's Affirmations
Sometimes we all need a little reminder that we can do anything good :)
Letters/Notes: from Kimmika LH Williams-Witherspoon
Dear Kimmy:
This has been the hardest writing assignment I have ever had and I have put it off and put it off (and put it off) for weeks going into months because I haven’t really known what to say. I don’t necessarily think I have lived an extraordinary life; but I have certainly lived an interesting one. Like everyone along the journey I suppose I have made my share of poor choices and mistakes but, in all good conscience, I couldn't tell you not to do this thing or that—turn left or right---try it or sit this one out, because even with the many poor choices I've made in life, I lived through them and even with the challenges, they helped me to become the woman I am today.
Having said that, I suppose the first thing I would tell you Kimmy is to trust yourself—step out there and live! When the bad things come…and they will—know that this too shall pass and you will make it through. The key is to never give up. But you got to hang in there Kimmy.
Despite the temporal paradox—changing any one thing in the past may mean you completely alter the present (and severely cripple the future), I would tell you to be mindful that time is a gift and that regrets last a long time.
Life is short and people don’t live forever. A missed opportunity can mean a lifetime. Remember that. You should have stayed in Florida that summer with Mama Curry—even though Aunt Chrissy wrongly accused you of acting out. You had no way of knowing that was going to be your only opportunity to really get to know her but you should have stayed, toughed it out…carried some of her with you on this journey.
I regret not making it to church that Father’s Day that would become Daddy’s last. Mommy had the girls that weekend. After the failed first marriage—hurt and newly healing—Sunday morning cuddling with the young boyfriend was nice but in the grand scheme of things—it was nowhere near as important as being with my father on his last Father’s Day. Young and dumb, I was running late and choose instead to meet them after church at the house. I was wrong. Late or not, I should have been there. So Kimmy, set your alarm clock when Mommy tells you to come to church—kick the “jump off” out! He didn’t last long anyway and regrets last a lifetime.
My only other regret is getting so mad at my brothers that I cut them out of a lot of my life. Change that! Let the kids make their own mistakes as they grow. You are a wonderful mother; but parents can’t stop children from falling down; but you can teach them how to get up again.
You aren't perfect Kimmy. I guess we aren't meant to be; but we are put here on earth to learn, NEVER stop learning. Learn all you can. See all you can…try all you can and then write it…record it. Beat up, bruised; but refusing to be beaten, Don’t leave the manuscripts for your three novels under your bed when you finally leave Texas! Words gone can never be retrieved again. And your words are important Kimmy—even when it seems that no one else understands or when they seem small in comparison to all they try to solve, describe or define…write Kimmy, sing Kimmy, shout Kimmy…PERFORM! That is your mission. That is your gift and it will bring you through.
Don’t think the world will end each time a marriage does…It won’t! You’ll live. You’ll raise babies into capable women…and one remarkable young man. You’ll teach, mentor and mother students that will take bits and pieces of the best of you across the country and around the world and remember that you once cared enough about them to share with them your soul. You’ll touch and nurture and grow them up while you grow yourself.
Some people say that you should keep a journal—try if you can; but just know that your poetry and your plays are your life—so write! Write it all down and keep the journals, and papers, and scribbled bar napkins—that is your journey.
Take lots of pictures. Cherish the moments you get to spend with loved ones; Laugh out loud often. Travel. Touch history and people and be touched by them as well. Be cautious. Keep your eyes open. Try not to grow cynical and smile when your heart is breaking. Smiles and prayers are the salve that heals the broken and recharges the soul.
Please, don’t be too disappointed with me that this isn't a more definitive map, outlining all the “dos” and “don’ts”—trust me—you don’t need one. Just remember to embrace all the good times and with every challenge, every time you get knocked down…take the dare…stand back up, again!
And, I’ll be there with you—in the mirror!
To learn more about Kimmika, click HERE!
August 17, 2014
Today's Quotes/News: Ferguson, Missouri
Sending peace and justice to our brothers and sisters in Ferguson, Missouri!
August 11, 2014
Today's Quotes/News: Remembering Robin Williams
The Sincerely, she Project would like to take a moment to remember the times Robin Williams has made us laugh, cry and think!
Thank you for your light Robin; we'll miss you!
Thank you for your light Robin; we'll miss you!
Today's Quotes/News: Sincerely, she Project founder TS Hawkins interviews w/A Date With Destiny
Founder/Curator of The Sincerely, she Project sits with radio host Lisa Saunders of "A Date With Destiny" about arts, youth, sisterhood & The Sincerely, she Project!
Click below to check it out!
August 7, 2014
July 22, 2014
Meet the Womyn: Shanel Sherese
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Shanel Sherese grew up in the Wynnefield section of West Philadelphia. Her immediate family included mother, grandmother, great great grandmother and two aunts all living together under one roof. Shanel’s childhood consisted of a slue of other cousins, aunts which doubled when her mother married her step-father when Shanel was seven. She attended a magnet school in center city from fifth to twelfth grade and began to cultivate her passion for everything that is life. From playing clarinet and piano to acting in plays, volleyball, roller blading and tae kwan do, to dance and acrobatics class, Shanel’s parents encouraged her to be a jill of all trade. As a teen Shanel was silly, upbeat, athletic and curious. The one thing that stayed consistent was her love for movies, creative writing and entertaining. After she begrudgingly declined an acceptance to NYU Tisch for film, she attended a local Liberal Arts College to pursue exercise science, the career her family wanted. It made sense to them from her active upbringing, but it did not satisfy her passion. Freshman year was rough but Shanel started relaxing in her skin and living her life. By her eighteenth birthday she was free from the expectations of others and looked inside to make herself happy.
Feeling too stifled and unfulfilled in the Exercise and Health Promotion Industry, Shanel returned to the city to enter the Philly Drag King competition in 2011. Since then, Shanel has not only won several awards in Drag, but her exposure on stage alone has lead to opportunities as a photographer, model and actor. Her passion for entertainment finally returned as fulfilling activities in and around the community that accepted her first. Shanel Sherese has regained her wholehearted, bright love of life that continues to be blessed with a supportive partner, opportunities for growth and a universe that listens to her happy song of peace.
Letters/Notes: from Shanel
Dear Shanel-
I promise you everything will make sense soon. I know you are struggling feeling comfortable in your skin. You hear the voices of those who love you and believe their voices are your own. They are not. You are amazing as you are and do not ever need to compromise yourself for others. Everyone will think they know what is best for you, what you like and what will make you successful. The truth is, you will make your own happiness that will lead to your own success but only when you have peace within your self. I am not here to tell you that it will be OK every second, but I am here to tell you during your darkest moments that are ahead, hold true to you and breathe.
Shanel, you will learn that the universe is here to give you what you want. You must put your energy into the love, peace and happiness that WILL surround you. Those who try to take your light are NOT your friends, they are NOT your lovers. If you do not remember this lesson, or wish to let your stubborn ways push you forward into unhappiness and misery, learn a lesson from the situation and DO BETTER with your next decision. Never keep riding the carousel, you get dizzy and bitter and it thwarts your pursuit of happiness.
Even though your family turned on you when you came out, don’t take it personal. They had dreams and wishes THEY didn’t fulfill and wanted their dreams to be lived by you. Does that even make sense?! Realize this and forgive them, but never compromise self again. You will find family in friends that will help you through your dark times ahead. Remember those who you do not get along with do NOT need to be in your vibration, blood or other. You are free. You can be free. You can be loved, respected and recognized but only if you allow yourself to be.
I love you Shanel, and learn to love you too...sooner than later.
Love,
Shanel Sherese
To learn more about Shanel, click HERE!
July 15, 2014
Today's Thoughts: The Beauty of SCANDAL!
The SCANDAL team hit The View couch to chat about how it all began!
July 13, 2014
July 11, 2014
Today's Quotes/News: Yaya DaCosta Cast as Whitney Houston for Lifetime TV's Biopic
The camera's have already started rolling!
Read more at the DAILY MAIL!
In the movie of your life, who do you think should play you?
Tell us below!!!
Today's Quotes/News: The Nation Is Failing Our Girls
"A minor gets roofied, raped and recorded",
then has it placed on social media against her will by a boy who was “bored at 1 a.m,”
and wanting to “wake up the Twitter timeline"...
Read more from THE DAILY BEAST
July 10, 2014
Today's Inspiration: Melissa McCarthy on the Joys of Womanhood
The embarrassing truth with comedic class!
Today's Thoughts: "How Can I Ease the Pain?" by Lisa Fischer [LIVE in Japan]
A little #tbt from The Sincerely, she Project!
July 8, 2014
Letters/Notes: from Lisa Saunders
Hello Lisa,
I am your future. I am here to deliver some wisdom for you in hope that will take heed and embrace it. If you do, you will be able to avoid some of the pitfalls that I have encountered along the way.
One of the most important lessons that I have learned is, it is ESSENTIAL to learn how to completely and unequivocally learn to love yourself! Learn how to accept you for who you are which is an AMAZING spiritual being. Learn who and where you come from which is from a ALL knowing and LOVING God! Know that you are WORTHY of being loved UNCONDITIONALLY and do not accept and settle for anything less.
Learn how to let go and FORGIVE immediately because if you don't you are blocking any and all blessings of manifestation to you.
Learn how to "receive" as much as you "give!" They go hand in hand.
Do not be afraid to let that wonderful and BRILLIANT light shine! You ARE an "Earth-Angel!" Don't be afraid of what others may think or say about "your-journey!"
Just do YOU!
Learn the poem by Marianne Williamson: "Our Deepest Fear!" It will carry you a very long way.
Most importantly LIVE! Live and do whatever makes YOU HAPPY! Embrace this life and never look back! Turn "inward" and learn how to "Abide in the silence."
LISTEN to that "still small voice" for that is the voice of God!
It will NEVER STEER YOU WRONG!
And last but not least, KNOW that you are NEVER ALONE! Know that your Guardian Angels are ALWAYS with you to help you in your journey.
Call on them. They want you to use them for that is there purpose.
LIVE, LAUGH, LOVE!!
To learn more about Lisa, click HERE!
July 3, 2014
June 23, 2014
June 17, 2014
Today's Thoughts: Are There Things That Only Fathers Can Do?
Watch this clip of Terry Crews on "The View"
and let us know what you think?
Letters/Notes: from Maleka Diggs
Dearest Self,
Your name is Maleka Moniece Gilbert. Your first name means, queen. Your middle name means, to advise and your last name means, bright pledge of German lineage. Walk in the power of your name. Never let anyone destroy that light.
Maleka, you were born into poverty and adversity. Your mother, of African descent; has a high school education and birthed you just after she graduated high school. Your father is from St. Vincent & The Grenadines and came to the United States of America as a Military Police Officer for the United States Army. You are the first grand-daughter on your father's side to be born in this country.
As you journey through life, many obstacles will challenge you. Though I cannot change what those surround you do; I can say to be strong and brave. The mental struggle that you will encounter will test every fiber of your being. You will find days that all hope seems lost. You will question everything; but feel stifled due to age, gender, size, race and culture. Do not give up.
Always follow your instincts. Never feel less than; even in the face of those that see you as such. The understanding of yourself, history and environment will play a pivotal role in your future. The interests, skills and talents you possess will not be common, even deemed weird in the environment in which you live. Do not give up.
No one has more control over you then yourself. The moment that lesson is lost; your view will become foggy. This does not mean, its over. Learn from every moment and you will shine. Please understand, that everyone on this earth has their own challenges and when you look past the superficial; you are one.
I will not share the stories that have allowed me to craft this letter to you. If I have learned anything; it's that everything happens for a reason. It frustrates me that I have made that decision; but just getting the answers and not the experience will be of no benefit to you. In fact, it is an extreme detriment. Their are no failures; but moments to raise to the occasion.
To conclude this note of awareness would be impossible, so...I will continue my journey and maybe one day you will share your thoughts with the you of our future.
With Love & Admiration,
M
To learn more about Maleka, click HERE!
June 15, 2014
Fun Facts: Joy Parham-Thomas
Cooking up more than delicious dishes, Joy Parham-Thomas is an activist in her community.
Helping out with The Sincerely, she Project's #BRINGBACKOURGIRLS, she displayed that she is more than just a sassy-sizzling face in Season 12's "Hell's Kitchen"!
Watch her "Hell's Kitchen" Trailer below:
Today's Quotes/News: Remembering Ruby Dee
The infectious 91 year old Ruby Dee has transitioned to the bigger theater beyond the clouds!
Thank you for your talents, insights and humanity Ruby!
June 12, 2014
Fun Facts: Lorraine Toussaint
Before she was the talk of the cell block tango unfolding on the current season of "Orange Is The New Black", Lorraine Toussaint (& Annie Potts) were the go-to gals of Lifetime's "Any Day Now". "Any Day Now" premiered on the Lifetime Network in 1998 and had an amazing 4 year run.
This program detailed the ups and downs of equality through the eyes of two little girls just wanting to be friends in the very segregated South.
Watch the clip below of "Any Day Now":
Hear Lorraine's on screen interview about her character "Vee" on "Orange Is The New Black":
Gyrl Group Thursday: The Womyn of "Bridemaids"
These womyn sure know how to redefine the term "chick flick"!
Watch the bloopers below to see how the fun never stops
even when the camera's not rolling:
Today's Quotes/News: "The Real" Goes National on September 15th
For those who love THE VIEW & THE TALK, make room for THE REAL!
After the pilot release on the West Coast last year,
The Real has been picked up for national syndication!
Congrats ladies!
Continue to keep it real!
After the pilot release on the West Coast last year,
The Real has been picked up for national syndication!
Congrats ladies!
Continue to keep it real!
Watch the trailer and a past segment title "Can A Baby Save Your Marriage":
June 9, 2014
Today's Inspiration: Uriah and Kiera Brinkley
Sisters Uriah and Kiera Brinkley are changing the face of dance one move at a time!
Watch below:
June 3, 2014
Today's Quotes/News: Murti & Pushpa
Cousins Murti and Pushpa, 14 and 15 years old, were kidnapped when they stepped outside to use the restroom. After which, it's reported, five men raped, killed them, and hung their bodies from a tree. Read more from the NY Daily News.
June 1, 2014
Letters/Notes: from Adrianna Matthews [To The Girl Who Always Struggled]
To The Girl Who Always Struggled
To the girl who always struggled
We will not say your name
But I just want to let you know
I understand your pain.
To the girl who always struggled
Do not feel ashamed
Life is full of troubles
But in return strength is gained.
To the girl who always struggled
Do not feel alone
Someday it will be over
At peace and rest will be your soul
To the girl who always struggled
I know your heart lies in vain
But there is greatness in your tomorrow
Just keep waiting for your day.
Once upon a time
There was born a little girl
Fragile, battled, scared and broken
Was her placement in this world
Lost, and hopeless
She could not focus
Too many burdens in her heart
Distance and dependence
Then became her mark
Her life was shattered
Fearful, scattered
She always felt apart
Longing for another
To heal and cleanse
Her from the dark
Although she knew
That she was special
Her sadness
Overtook her spark
For many years
Enslaved she labored
As a victim of her scars
To the girl who always struggled
Girl you gotta be strong
Fight through your pain
Allow your happiness to grow
To the girl who always struggled
Put a smile on your face
Today it may have rained
But there will be brighter days
To the girl who always struggled
You Gotta tough big old heart
Battling many demons
Trust I know that it’s hard
To the girl who always struggled
God will keep you in grace
Girl I’m living proof
That you will get through your pain
I used to be stressed everyday
Whole life was just a mess
Praying every night
For someday to wake up blessed
Confused about who I was
Couldn’t stand to bare this flesh
I stayed getting teased
Not a day I had to rest
Misunderstood for my skin
I was too light
And that wasn’t right
Not black enough
But still too dark to pass for white
Never fit in
It doesn’t matter everywhere I go
Identified as strange and the girl no one really knows
Pitiful I felt
All alone a broken soul
Holding so much anger
Always ready to explode
I had to make a change soon
So I could finally feel whole
No this life ain’t good for me
I have to let it go.
To the girl who always struggled
If you think you gotta bad
Understand I’m by your side
Appreciate what you have
To the girl who always struggled
You have to find yourself quick
Your life is passing by
While you’re crying, dying
You cannot quit!
To the girl who always struggled
You must toughen up
There’s others out there fighting
Deeper battles then you love
To the girl who always struggled
You have to heal your own heart
Be an inspiration
Show the world who you are
So I gave up all the crying
Whipped the tears from my eyes
No longer insecure or broken
No more hurting my pride
I ripped through all my scars
As I drained out the pain
Gonna make it my choice,
to be happier today
Finally felt relief
I could finally escape
For the first time in my life
I felt I was brave
Then I opened up my heart
Had reinsurance
Strength was gained
Now I see the light
No longer do I feel at shame
To the girl who always struggled
Don’t you wanna feel alive?
Quit bringing down yourself
There’s so much beauty deep inside
To the girl who always struggled
Don’t let your skin be a threat
Find acceptance within yourself
There will no more neglect
To the girl who always struggled
So you’re different
But that’s bold
You are unique
And you are pretty
It’s time that you show off your glow
To the girl who always struggled
Come on let’s be happy and free
Today is your tomorrow
May 31, 2014
Today's Quotes/News: Abigail & Brittney Hensel; Two Truly Phenomenal Womyn
Abigail Loraine Hensel and Brittany Lee Hensel are known as dicephalic parapagus twins; conjoined twins each of whom has a separate head, but whose bodies are joined. They are highly symmetric, giving the appearance of having a single body form. Additionally, several vital organs are doubled up; each twin has a separate heart, stomach, spine, and spinal cord. Currently, at 24 years of age, they have defined scientific expectations as they plan for a continued future!
To learn more about Abigail and Brittany, click HERE and watch the video below!
To learn more about Abigail and Brittany, click HERE and watch the video below!
May 30, 2014
Today's Quotes/News: Little Things Womyn Need to Know
Thanks to UMBRELR, here are some tidbits that will make womyn-life a tad bit easier! Click HERE for details!
May 29, 2014
Today's Inspiration: Congratulations Ursula Rucker
World renowned Poet & Activist Ursula Rucker is a new mural model sponsored by You Go Girl Mural Dedication and The City of Philadelphia Mural Arts Program. The larger-than-life mural towers above an urban landscape, and features Jetsonorama's photo of Rucker, which is thoughtfully tattooed with words from "l.o.v.e.", one of the poet's most well-known works. To see the mural close up or want to go to the dedication ceremony, click HERE for more information!
Letters/Notes: from The Ignant Intellectual [Letter to 16]
Letter to 16
I live in Harlem. I will be 35 in exactly 179 days. I am going to sky-dive on that day. No matter how high my fear factor is, I’m jumping. I have a passport. With stamps. I have friends. Who I love. And who love me. I’m not talking to my mom. My godmother died in September. My grandmother and Nanny Ocy (her older sister) died within 4 hours of each other in 2006. They were room mates in the nursing home. Skippy died two years ago. I have a gut and I struggle staying in shape and eating right. New Orleans drowned. Nothing is the same. Nothing has really changed. I am a full-time entrepreneur. That’s both good and bad. I feel like I have no home. I am scared. Shytless. I don’t feel like I do enough, yet am often exhausted. I think I’ve found my passion. Money is funny. Change is strange. I am single. Very very single. I still have hope. Love encamps me.
Right now your biggest concern is how to get your mama to buy you those Used Jeans and Tretorns. You want some Girbauds, too. She’s not big on name brands and neither are you, but every now and then, a teenager wants to look like every other teenager walking around.
I know you wish that boys paid more attention to you and less attention to the ‘fly girls’. If only Everell, Darryl, Armond, Jonas, Isaac, and/or Brandon would notice you, they’d fall in love with you instantly. I wish I could tell you that someone will come along and you both would fall in love instantly, but at 34 and single, I’m wondering how true that is. I can say this, though. All those girls they are chasing behind, will look like shyt in 15 years. Wait until you see Dominique at your 15 year high school reunion. Revel in that shyt.
But really, over the next 20 years, you’ll realize that you don’t really want boys anyway. CATCH IT! Yes ma’am. You will begin to develop a queer identity and it will shift your life and propel it in some of the most amazing directions. Surely, many won’t like it, but your life isn’t for nobody but you to like. You’ll also realize that all those ‘I don’t really feel like a girl’ feelings you’ve always had, will begin to have a name and its own language. And you will begin to also develop a trans-gender identity. CATCH THAT T!
Your hair will stop growing because it was the one thing people validated you on. You even won ‘Best Hair’ in high school. And you will take that validation and it will result in over-processing and essentially frying your scalp which will scar the skin and for years it won’t grow.
And you don't know yet, but your grandmother will be the person you miss most in the world when she passes. And while y’all always got along, you’ll wish you had spent more time with her. But it won’t be until she’s gone that you’ll realize just how much alike y’all were. That all those times she defended you in showing your shape off or wearing something kinda scandalous, it was really her way of saying ‘Do not let others police your body.’ ‘And you own you’. But wasn’t all that language back then. She was a maverick too. But like many, you won’t realize that until it’s too late. And it won’t be easy to shake the regret. She’ll visit you in your dreams. But she won’t say anything. She’ll always be in the background. Cleaning up. Or cooking something. Just as a reminder that she’s there with you. And it will be more comforting than her actually being in the foreground.
Your dreams of being a cardiothoracic surgeon will fade eventually. GASP! Yes. You aren’t going to medical school. Spirit has something else in store for you. You will find that your passions can be found in Social Justice and you will become a Social & Cultural Critic and it will look good on you.
So walk this road. You will often feel alone.
Make mistakes. They’ll give you wisdom.
Fail forward. Learn the difference between sucumbing to fear and engaging fear.
When you feel the lump well in your throat, that’s God’s way of saying ‘speak’.
You are doing well.
Sincerely,
Today's Quotes/News: The World Says Goodbye to Maya Angelou
At 86 years young,
Maya Angelou leaves a nation of souls to honor her legacy and love.
Thank you for your spirit Maya Angelou.
We will always love you!
May 23, 2014
Today's Quotes/News: Congratulations Diane Humetewa
Congratulations to Diane Humetewa for becoming the first Native American women to serve as a Federal Court Judge!!! This is such grand news! To learn more, click HERE!
May 22, 2014
Today's Quotes/News: The View Says Goodbye to Barbara Walters
Barbara Walters retires from the airwaves! A pioneer for womyn news anchors across the nation, her determination, drive and passion will be cherished beyond the beyond! Thank you Barbara for making the road to success a little less rocky for womyn everywhere! We love you!
Today's Quotes/News: Congratulations Shonda Rhimes
Shonda Rhimes has signed an eight figure deal that has her on the ABC Network until 2018! Thank you Ms. Rhimes for bringing us a Thursday line-up that has had us on the edge of our seats for years. From "Grey's Anatomy", "Scandal" to the new "How To Get Away With Murder", we look forward to seeing you define yourself has the leading lady of prime time! Read more HERE!
Testimonials: from Terri Clifton
"I'm very honored to be a part of this project, addressing a younger self, exploring the path I took to get where I am. At 19, I was reckless, undisciplined, and largely alone. But grace, in the form of mentors, moved me past that. My little flame was kindled and cared for and I know the importance of passing that grace on. Thank you TS Hawkins & The Sincerely, she Project for including me and for reminding me of the importance of the journey."
May 21, 2014
Today's Quotes/News: Congratulations to Amber West!
One of our dynamic womyn is officially a Doctor! Receiving her degree in English, Dr. West will certainly continue to take the world by storm! We tip our hats to you Amber! Congrats on making the world a better place!
To learn more about Amber, click HERE!
May 15, 2014
Letters/Notes: from Terri Clifton [A Visit To 19]
A Visit to Nineteen
Why are you there, by the window with your chin in your hand, Nineteen?
I watch you, you know. Going through your days. The risks you take, the ones you don't. Letting everyone think you're cocksure even when you don't have a clue. Maybe not the best strategy, but the one you've chosen. It will do for now.
You've found only half your confidence, the part that believes in what you can do, and it makes me wish for some way to show you how to believe in who you are. But scanning forward, I know that life will teach you soon enough.
All the answers you seek are inside you. Outside things—people, events—will trigger your ability to access them. Lessons will be repeated until learned.
I float here, a wisp of future, too insubstantial to leave you with anything except wishes. But there's a deep magic in wishes from the heart, so this I'll do.
I wish you Love. The all pervasive kind that colors everything you look at, especially yourself. It will break your heart, multiple times. Small breaks, and deep bruises. But never let go.
I wish you Energy and the knowledge that it has to be replenished from within. You produce your own power and it has to be fed. Nourish your body and your mind everyday.
I wish you Passion, which is the combination of the first two. Use it.
I know for a fact these three wishes find you. I'm glad that you cannot see the path you'll take; it would frighten you. Just know you make it.
I'll be watching your tears, your triumphs. I'll be amazed at your strength and courage, which you'll gift to me. Thank you for all you go through to find them.
And I'll be watching that day when it begins to click, the one where you learn to live in the moment, to know that your happiness is all in your hands and your attitude determines much of your path.
There's a great deal of hard work ahead of you, but you'll manage. You'll build your dreams, one day at at a time. I am that dream, and I am alive.
Keep going, Nineteen. We've more to accomplish yet. I'll do my part.
(I find myself smiling, wondering what our future self is seeing, wishing for me now.)
One last thing before I go, child. Be at peace with the mistakes you'll make; I've already forgiven you. Every step you took brought me here, and I love you for it.
To learn more about Terri click HERE!
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