There is a stubbornness about me that never can bear to be frightened at the will of others.
My courage always rises at every attempt to intimidate me.
― Jane Austen, Pride and Prejudice

What would the world look like if every woman in it had courage to stand up and speak out? Against any injustice on her or others’ behalf, against prejudice, hate and bias?

Realizing that naming evil out loud can be a daunting task for any human, how about starting with something as simple as claiming our bodies?

Have you heard the call of the wild?

Perhaps you were camping in the North Cascades and a bird called to you before the sun has fully risen over the douglas firs. Or maybe a plant you’ve never noticed before softly whispered into your ear, encouraging you to get to know it better. It’s possible you heard it in the rush of a river coming down from the mountains, as you stood on the uneven rocks on its bank and closed your eyes to the noise, leaning in.

You must have heard the call. Have you answered it?

I have always struggled with identifying with words such as ‘artist’ or ‘creative’. Despite majoring in fine arts in college and spending hours at the painting studio, every time a friend would call me a creative person or an artist I would inwardly, and at times outwardly, cringe.

At dawn it was so quiet as if the whole world was collectively holding its breath in anticipation. Despite the curtain of smoke covering Seattle from one body of water to another, another day was about to begin. A wonder.

Not many were up at this time. When it is still dark yet a faint outline of the sun being born is caressing the sky. A gradation so subtle even one blink and you may miss it altogether.