Cultivating

feminism

The Journey - The Magic

This is an open journal about my journey exploring feminism.

11.8.23 — So have been watching and listening to a lot of Taylor Swift. Say what you want, but that woman is a brilliant artist. Now I know I don’t know the real Taylor, but she is talented at telling a story and connecting with people. My daughter recently sent me a TikTok that was a series of pictures saying things like, “What if Taylor never moved to Nashville?”, “What if she stayed hidden forever?”, “What if she never got a guitar for Christmas?” And it struck me that only great things happen when we are brave enough to believe they can. She could have just as easily never moved, stay hidden, put the guitar in the back of her closet. But she chose to pursue, take the big steps, believe she had something to give the world. And we are all just a little more glittered and sassy for it. Thank you, Taylor, for your magic. I encourage you to go find yours!

Magic

By Jenny Bonta

The words of magic from my childhood were,

Please.

Thank you.

Heavy on the “I’m sorry.”

All could make a situation sparkle.

Polished outcomes to perfection.

I learned the word “no” but never practiced.

The three magic phrases were supposed to get me farther,

no missed opportunities if served with a smile.

But in exchange for a seat at the table, the job, or affection,

my power evaporated.

Three magic phrases quieted my voice, smoothed my emotions,

and condition me to put others first.

Too loud, I am sorry.

Thank you for the added responsibilities.

Please may I just speak once?

I am sorry I spoke up.

Thank you for the job at a place that doesn’t value me.

Please, what can I do to make your day better?

I am sorry I wore something that offended you.

Thank you for telling me I don’t look good in red.

Please, let’s not fight.

Where is the magic in diluting my dreams?

Is there magic in abadoning myself?

Politeness.

A clear sign of obedience.

To whom? Or what?

There is no magic in suppressing yourself into darkness.

The real magic is kindness. And love.

The rawness of using your voice to bring awareness to all of humanity.

Kindness in speaking your truth, the impact on others,

Love in uttering your authentic feelings,

Genuinely connecting through vulnerability.

Find the magic in being loud,

setting boundaries,

speaking your truth and standing up for those lost by the constraints of society,

saluing yourself.

loving yourself,

wearing something beautiful, even something red.

Find the magic in fighting for your autonomy,

for a place at the table,

and for the reason your soul walks the earth.

The real magic comes when you can see,

the magic is you.