Our Stories Too!

"We learn best to listen to our own voices if we are listening at the same time to other women - whose stories, for all our differences, turn out, if we listen well, to be our stories also." - Barbara Deming, political activist and author

I can't even begin to count the number of times I've heard exactly what I needed to hear at just the right moment because I chose to listen to what other women have to share. I don't think this is a coincidence - I think it might be some kind of Universal law.

I've become comfortable in my own skin and so I can trust my own voice these days. It's been a process for me. I was always shy and full of fear - as a young child and then as an adult. My faith in God has allowed me to grow and not be so afraid anymore. With less fear comes more understanding. I'm more open to new ideas, I'm willing to listen to others, and I'm willing to sit quietly, go within, and listen to my inner voice. Willingness is the key to everything for me. The more willing I am, the better the results.

Being able to trust my inner voice is one of the greatest gifts I have ever received. And finding the similarities I share with my friends allows me to connect with them on a deeper level. I have heard men and women share their life stories from time to time and I ALWAYS find that I can relate to at least some part of it. That's because I can relate to the emotions they describe and that's our bond. I tell you this; it's a gift to be able to see what we share in common rather than to see our differences.

So, for today, I will choose to listen to others and listen to my own voice as well. I am grateful.