Writer and advocate Chelsey Luger pens a letter to her ancestors, thanking them for their resisilience and fortitude.
I have learned that our traditional societies were much better suited to support women.
We had the most sophisticated childrearing and educational systems in the world.
But still, this does not diminish the feat of motherhood that you accomplished.
When I remember what you have done, I am reassured of my own capabilities.
When I remember this, I am able to be present and sure in my parenting.
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What is The Missionary Sex Position?
Not only did you survive in their systems, you learned to beat them at their own game.
You wielded western knowledge as a tool for liberation.
When I remember this, I am able to work harder.
They tried to steal our culture but you did not allow it.
You lived at a time when traits of the heart, like generosity and compassion, denoted true beauty.
I imagine those infrequent moments when you would see your reflection in a particularly clear pool of water.
You were smart enough to know that youd drown if you got caught up in it.
When I remember this, I feel good about myself.
Part of me carries the sadness of these traumatic memories, but I also carry ancestral strength.
Just when I begin to feel overwhelmed or down, the fortitude you passed down takes over.
You paved the way.
You always kept going.
Looking for more Strong As Her?
Check out these letters from chronic illness advocateNitika Chopraand Emmy-Award-winning broadcast journalistMara Schiavocampo.
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