As you’ve no doubt noticed, we’re living in a time when our words and actions are under scrutiny. Even with the best intentions, it’s possible to have an effect that we didn’t wish to make. And for some of us, this matters; we want to spread joy, not offend.
For example, it’s LGBTQ Pride Month, and I’m shouting “Happy Pride!” from the rooftops, just as I have been since the 90s when I was nearly the only straight woman in many of the rooms I frequented — both at work and in my volunteer and activism circles.
But these days, I recognize that just because I have a long history of living and working alongside the LGBTQ community, it’s still not my place as a cis-gendered, heterosexual woman to assume my words and actions will always be received as I intend them.
I don’t know about you, but I want to continue learning and celebrating and elevating and growing…
This month, I’ll wear my Pride jewelry and show my support at every turn, but I’ll defer to my peers for direction over what’s considered cultural appreciation vs. cultural appropriation. The same holds for my appreciation of Indigenous, Black, disabled, and other marginalized communities. However, I recognize that there’s a fine line.
My intention is never to hurt or offend, but to appreciate my fellow humans, show my support, and celebrate their ability to live their lives with honor.
We’re hearing a lot about drag queens in the news. Is drag a misappropriation of women’s style? Of course not! It’s an appreciation of the female form and beauty. It’s an art form, not hurting anyone!
I can’t help but think, we just celebrated Memorial Day — the perfect reminder that many people have died for our FREEDOM to live with dignity, respect, and honor. Not everyone is the same, and that’s more than okay!
If you’ve been in my orbit for any time, you know I love a good show tune. What can I say? My past (and present) in musical theater continues to inspire my work.
These songs are chock full of messages that apply to life, career, and business, if you let the lyrics move you.
Take “Raise You Up” from one of my many favorite Broadway shows, Kinky Boots, for example…
“Celebrate you, to elevate you, when you struggle to step, we’ll take a helping hand.” 🎶💃🏻
That’s how I look at it, and that’s how I want you to think about whatever there is about yourself that you’re hesitating to let shine. If we all do this for ourselves and each other, what a wonderful way to be in the world!
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