Where is the Love? Empowering Ourselves and Others

We started this Core Conversation series, Extraordinary Women Change the World, earlier this year. Over the last few months we have had the honor of sharing inspiration, wisdom, and community from 32 guest contributors. 

This amazing line-up of women and men are supporting women's empowerment and, indeed, changing the world. We've had thought provoking conversations, seen this conversation taken to other blogs and onto social media, made important connections, and I've had people reach out to let me know how certain pieces of work have helped them and they've told me of the work they've started to help empower women. What more could we ask for?

When we hear the phrase, "Change the World," it can be easy to get overwhelmed with the idea of grand plans and revolutions.

As we witnessed the stories and wisdom from our contributors it became evident that there are many people out there doing BIG things, making BIG changes for good. What stood out for me even more than that though, was the simple beauty of each one of these people doing their part for greater good in their communities. And, in many instances this was in a small way. A small,but important way.

Anthropologist, Margaret Mead, had something to tell us about changing the world; something we should not forget: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed it's the only thing that ever has.” 

It can be easy to become overwhelmed with the things that we find important and want to see change. Believe me, I've done that myself on many different occasions. I've asked myself: "Who are you to think you can do ...?" "Who are you to think people are going to pay attention to what you have to say?" Those questions can and do creep in and what I've told that scared woman is just this..."People do care. People will listen. It's important to you. What's the cost of not trying?" The cost of not trying is just too steep for me.

I started this conversation back in May because a significant part of my life revolves around women's empowerment. I'm a sociologist whose work had focused on women's mental health, I've worked in a domestic violence and sexual assault prevention program, I'm a member of and contributor in several women's business organizations, I'm a mentor for another amazing business woman who needed someone to believe in her, and I work with local non-profits that empower women. That's what's important to me. The cost of not doing these things is just too steep for me. This is as much a part of me as my thoughts, my spirit, my relationships; it's all a lovely, intertwined reality.

What you do does matter. It can be something small that can have an impact on yourself and others. Imagine if every one of us put just a small amount of our time (1 hour a week) into being a part of an organization, non-profit, or group that we love. What if instead of that, you spent that one hour writing and publishing something that supports what you are passionate about? Or instead of that, you spent an hour with a dear friend or family member and just witnessed the beauty of that relationship? All of these are ways that you can empower yourself and others and make a positive impact in the world. It doesn't have to be a life's work, a revolution, or a master plan. Every little bit of good matters. 

I want to express my heartfelt thanks to each and every one of you that contributed to our Core Conversation, whether it was a guest post, commenting on our posts, or sharing the love and wisdom with others. As I mentioned, this topic is very much a part of me and I am honored to have had the chance to share that with you.

So, what are you doing to empower yourself and others? I'd love to hear about it.