I just can’t get enough

FROM THE ADVOCACY ISSUE 2024

I believe the universe has a way of taking care of us.  I don’t know what it is, and I don’t how it works, but it seems each time I need a reminder of “what I am doing” someone asks me why I started Pink Chair Storytellers Magazine.  I LOVE this question. I LOVE this magazine.  Not only does it allow me to share the story of friendship and acceptance with my Bridget, but it also reminds me of my why as far as my greater purpose in the world.

In the beginning of this journey three years ago, I told a story about not knowing there was another answer to the question, “How are you?” I just answer, “I’m great.” Now, I am excited to say that I live my life in a perpetual state of curiosity and honesty.

Now, not only do I know my story, I embrace my story.  I share my story.  I am proud of my story. My story consists of middle school bullying, high school betrayal and a wall around me that grew so tall, it didn’t come down until my 40’s. The most important part: I LOVE my story. When asked, “Why did you start Pink Chair Storytellers with Bridget?” I answer with those poignant moments that brought me here. Stories that I used to find embarrassing or weak, they caused shame. I was reminded that they all happened for a reason: To lead me here. With all of you.

Now, I can’t get enough. A few weeks ago, I went out with friends to enjoy live music. Before I got in the door, a friend came running up to me to talk about her diagnosis of vagina dryness and a new procedure to help. Had I heard of the procedure? Did I know another doctor she could get a second opinion from? Yes, and yes! The openness and honesty that envelopes my life is glorious.

Stories have come in about how a story, read in our pages, has helped people on their own journey. Stories telling me that they told a friend to not “live small” (story told by Katerina Phoenix in The Identity Issue 2023) or guidance they received from Cheryl Ryan Chan on how to turn rage into action.    

What do we do with all this information? Why should we listen and hear other women’s stories? Why should we tell our own stories?

Because isn’t life interesting? Aren’t people interesting? Every unique experience told is a lesson, a gift. Every story is documentation of our history. Not just the facts, but the feelings and emotions. Every encounter is a chance to learn and grow.  Every exposure to another, especially those outside of our own daily lives, brings us greater understand of each other and the world around us. We are all different. Let’s celebrate it!