Do it for Love
My first real relationship, my first love, was with my best friend, Lisa Pine. I would have done anything for her, and I believe she would have done anything for me. It was the most important bond I would ever forge in the truest sense. She taught me so much about loyalty, trust, and girl power. We were a team, and it set a precedent for how I moved through the world-- in my close relationships and beyond. This invaluable lesson I learned at five years old carried me well into my 50s.
What did it teach me? We should not underscore the importance of lifting each other up. Whether through mentoring, caring for someone in a time of need, or just being an ear to listen, it should be at the top of our priority list. Because when the world is against one of us it is against all of us.
We must support not just our close friends but all women across the country through trying times. We can and must learn that we should encourage all women through their choices, although they may not be our choices. The fight for pro-choice is far from over. It is only just starting. Roe is not codified, and abortion rights are being rolled back in every state. We must get back to the field if we are one big team. Women supporting women is the only weapon we have. We need to get back to what Lisa taught me when holding hands, sleeping over, and brushing each other's hair was the most important thing in the world. Let’s treat all women like that first best friend we would die for.
So this Valentine's Day, take the opportunity to lift women up. Send your bestie a scented candle or make a donation in her name to support those outside of your circle. Do it for your daughter, your neighbor, or better yet, for a young girl who has no one to talk to and doesn't have a strong support system.
We are and always will be stronger together. Your five-year-old self will thank you.
The Center for Reproductive Rights
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