As is typical for posts on our Reflecting on Reflecting blog, this post is a call to reflect and pause in this moment.
Being in THIS moment means different things to each of us, but for ALL of us (depending on when and where you are when reading this), this moment is part of Women’s History Month.
For some, awareness of Women’s History Month is certainly top of mind all month, whereas for others, it may go under the radar unless reminded of it by the world around them (e.g. themed playlists, announcements about special programming). Whatever your current level of awareness, all month long I invite you to spend some time recognizing, celebrating, honoring, appreciating, learning about (and from), and reflecting on women. Here are some questions to guide you in any of the above.
What does it mean to you to call your attention to women’s history? To the importance of the women in your life or in the world?
How have you taken a pause to bring awareness to and recognition of the meaning of this month for you (so far)?
How is having a month devoted to women’s history impactful for you?
What are some reflections you’ve had this month on your own relationships with the women in your life or the contributions of these women in your life (and in the world)?
What are some additional ways for you to observe and connect with Women’s History Month that are meaningful to you?
Reflections are individual and this post was intended to guide you in this process. One or all may become your journal prompt today. As you answer the questions, you may notice that themes may emerge. What are these themes for you? You may notice other offshoots of topics that are meaningful for you to reflect upon. I encourage you to go there.
Because this is a topic where I feel particularly connected, I’ll share that I am pleased to have chosen to honor this month thus far by doing all of the following (and undoubtedly this list will grow):
read several books by and about inspirational women, and reflected on many lessons that these books and these women have enriched me with
supported and appreciated art, music, and other creative contributions of women
proudly participated in community International Women’s Day celebrations
had meaningful and empowering conversations about this topic
shared and received wisdom from women in my personal and professional life
connected with other inspiring women who are making history
written this blog post
Finally, more broadly, as we enter each new month, collectively we are asked to direct our attention to foundational populations in our society, whether it be Native American Heritage Month in November, Pride Month in June, Black History in February. Whether or not we personally identify with the group being honored each month, we are asked to recognize the unique individual and collective contributions in much the same way as we are doing now.
I invite you to return to these questions to enhance the meaning of the moment for you.