In Honor of Women

March is Women's History Month. I thought I'd gather up a list of the women who inspire me--who are my heroes.

Here are my ladies. A short list. I know there are so many I'm missing.
Neko Case. Truth-singer. I just saw her live last night. Her singing evokes a nostalgia like no other. She's so totally herself.

Dar Williams. Another truth-singer. She has been with me since early college and has gotten me through a bunch of transitions. And road trips.

Mary Oliver. Favorite poet of all time. Here's a really great poem.

Jean Kilbourne. Courageous critic who calls out the advertising industry. She's super empowering and I love her. Fight the power!

Judy Wise. Artist. I have only found her recently, but I love her. I watch this video when I am un-inspired.

Adrienne Rich. Pioneering poet and feminist.

Tina Fey. The most funny woman on the TV.

Who are your heroines?
xo
Amy

blues part II

photo, Into the Dusk by david paul downs

I just found this poem. I love Mary Oliver with my heart. She tells those truths you need to hear. Two things to heal a heart: poetry and snuggling dogs. And also nature. I love how this poem talks about loneliness, grief and sadness--they inevitably come sometimes. But when they do come, go outside. Be tactile. Feel things, see things. Be alive.

When loneliness comes stalking, go into the fields, consider
the orderliness of the world. Notice
something you have never noticed before,

like the tambourine sound of the snow-cricket
whose pale green body is no longer than your thumb.

Stare hard at the hummingbird, in the summer rain,
shaking the water-sparks from its wings.

Let grief be your sister, she will whether or not.
Rise up from the stump of sorrow, and be green also,
like the diligent leaves.

A lifetime isn't long enough for the beauty of this world
and the responsibilities of your life.

Scatter your flowers over the graves, and walk away.
Be good-natured and untidy in your exuberance.

In the glare of your mind, be modest.
And beholden to what is tactile, and thrilling.

Live with the beetle, and the wind.

~ Mary Oliver ~

(excerpt from The Leaf and the Cloud: A Poem)