Happy Women’s Herstory Month

Happy Women’s Herstory Month to all of women in our community, province and nation. So many stories untold.

The theme of this year’s Women’s Day in Canada was every woman counts and it stuck with me. This means every age, stage, walk of life, heritage, economic status, occupation, role and identity. A few years ago I painted several pieces in the then Perfect Diversity clay art and pottery studio of my friend Carey Allan.

They represent the seasons of winter, spring, summer and autumn as well as earth, wind, fire and water. It struck me looking at them these years later how that they also represent the women in my life.

I am now autumn but yet the beauty and youth of spring and summer do not seem so far away.

That girl and woman still appears. And she is never far from my reach, ready to rebound but in the context of time, experience and more colours added to the kaleidoscope.

Autumn brings with it deeper, more vibrant colours and depth, life given significant layers.

Winter will come one day and with it a peaceful wonder without the rapid pace and bustle of the other seasons.

There will be more quiet, more wisdom, more truth. The destination will be closer but the journey not ended. Dreams will still ensue.

Every season brings a defining beauty and one does not surpass or outweigh the other. They are part of a the cycle of birth, growth, renewal, glory and rest.

Earth, wind, fire and water also makes me think of the women in my world- some so grounded, nurturing, gentle, protective and rebuilding like Mother Earth; others full of fire, heat, creativity, energy and transformation; those who are cooling, soothing, refreshing and sparkling like water, giving life and movement and those of air- a soft summer breeze on our cheeks; a ripple in our hair, a mounting gale, or powerful force.

Entwined they make for a wonderful world, imperfect yet beautiful.

Honour the women in your lives - mothers, daughters, grandmothers, aunties, sisters, nieces, friends, partners, mentors and more.

World wide they are our life bearers, protectors, healers, nurturers, menders, caregivers, community builders and balance no matter what their professions or other roles may be.

Let’s rejoice in the elements-earth, wind, fire & water as well as savour each season for the gems they reveal. A surprise and new promise awaits each day.

Kimberly Dickson is a communications professional, writer and artist living in New Glasgow with her husband, son and their golden retriever and black lab puppies. She describes her sisterhood as strong and inspiring.