This photo, by my girl Sienna Shields, reminds me, that deep, nurturing and intimate friendships between women must be restored, if we are to ever reconnect with our primal state of innocence, self-love and creative power. I am reminded to keep at the fore of my consciousness, when working with women both personally and professionally, the question, Who did she have to become, to survive patriarchy? And just as importantly, who did I?

Did she have to become competitive? Did she have to appear weak? Did she have to become hyper critical of herself and others? Did she have to exert extreme control over her environment in order to feel safe? Did she have to become hateful towards her body? In order to survive patriarchy, did she have to become suspicious and hateful toward other women? Did I?

And how do I, a woman who chooses to love other women, maintain that commitment to love in the midst of what looks like “crazy”.

The picture of the two dolls reminds me that staying in touch and in integrity with my own ecstasy, is the most important part of my commitment to women, and to myself. As a healer, a teacher and a homegirl, I am in the best position to create and maintain love and respect in my relationships when I set appropriate boundaries, speak what is true for myself, stay on guard against the seduction of “instant intimacy,” cultivate a circle of skilled, self-aware, gentle and supportive friends,
and allow myself to make mistakes and even fail as I learn and evolve into a better person.

The dolls remind me that I don’t have to be perfect in order to love myself or other women. Just willing to remain accountable to myself on my own healing journey and always be willing to expand my compassion and joy!

I hope they speak to you, as they have to me!
XO!
Christa