Authenticity Pledge
When I first began my blog...it was for my own creative expression. Then I redesigned the idea to encourage authenticity in other women and to provoke my friends into letting their spirits fly free with positivity and humor. This was an act of courage in itself. Exposing my thoughts, my ideas, my imperfection, my discontent with normalcy.... is scary.
I have found that, by writing about who I am without the boundaries of common sense restricting my voice, and about the things that I would normally only share with my closest of friends, I have been able to touch, connect, and inspire other women. Thus, I have discovered that I am in fabulous company in my quirkiness, insecurities, as well as in my desire for deliciousness.
We are not just people "bearing two X chromosomes in the cell nuclei and normally having a vagina, a uterus and ovaries, and developing at puberty a relatively rounded body and enlarged breasts, and retaining a beardless face; a girl or woman." (dictionary.com )
How do I know that my periodic acts of bravery are worth it? I get emails now from women who are appreciating my efforts, my thoughts, my authentic voice. They can relate to everything I'm saying and are grateful that I'm saying it.
"I look forward to All of your posts. You are my inspiration. So much of what you write is how I feel and am!"
"The world is a better place for us girls with you in it!!!!!!!!!"
"Thank you for being such a fabulous example of loving who we have become."
"I read the blog. You know, you may end up being my counselor. I love your freedom"
"You have a talent with your writing the rest of us just dream of. And a way of putting in words what we all understand and feel!!!!"
"You are a true gift! Your writing perfect! I find myself in a very similar "place" and learning to embrace it all, just how it is....for better or for worse."
"We women need to know how much we relate!!! It's a comforting feeling to know that you're not the only one that goes thru these kinds of things! Can't wait to read more! You're on my bookmarks!!!"
"You have a way of making women feel great about themselves. You have a great gift Andrea. Thank you for sharing it!!!! :)"
"Great post today!!!!! You inspire me every time I read your blogs!!!!!!"
"I love your writing style. I read quite a few articles and found them to be uplifting and real - with of course, your happy spirit and humor weaved throughout"
"Keep it up, Andrea! Your free spirit is contagious."
"Thanks for letting me know that I’m not alone & we’re all in this together! I’ll laugh with confidence & free willing next time we’re together!"
"KEEP WRITING! I get bummed when days go by and you haven't posted anything! Seriously. The blog is fantastic."
So I will continue to voice my authenticity, sometimes hesitantly but mostly with humor.
Because...even though I have lost all mystery, I have gained much freedom. FREE SPIRITS y'all.
*Download The Authenticity Pledge at Brene Brown's website: