Blog #14 - Eve Ensler

After watching the video clip from our supplemental readings, I am a true fan. Eve Ensler not only brings acknowledgement, support and prayers to women who are suffering, but she brings about change. After all the well wishes and good intentions, change is the one thing that truly makes a difference in this world. She has brought the sad truths for women who have been beaten, burned, mutilated, raped and even murdered to the attention of people who care and who are able to create change for these circumstances. The story of her own sad truth and how helping others allowed her to heal was a true testament to where humanity stems from.

 Her story of  "Mr. Alligator" was touching and inspiring, and the true meaning of the difference it made in her life really hit home for me. I did not suffer to the extent that many girls and women have growing up, but childhood was a very unhappy time for me. All my life and well into my adulthood, I would ask God why he made me the way he did and why I wanted the things I wanted if they were never to be mine. I felt as if my questions and prayers went unanswered until one day, I had children of my own. I knew when they came into the world, being a mother would be the most important job of my life...the one thing I would have to excel at and sacrifice for without resentment. I wanted to be a good parent above all else. As with most children and their parents, both of my kids have recognizable traits of mine, my daughter in particular is so much like me it is sometimes scary. Then one day I realized that I had to go through all of the things that I experienced to understand what my children needed; what would make them happy, successful and kind people. Ever since that day, with each opportunity and joyful experience I can provide for them, I am able to overcome a little more of that sadness and instead appreciate that I am able to recognize the little things I can do that make all the difference in my quest to be a great parent. While I still feel I fall far short of being the "perfect mom", I know I am creating a happier life for my children, and that makes me feel great!

TED Ideas worth spreading. (2004). Talks Eve Ensler: finding happiness body and soul. Retrieved on May 8, 2009 from, http://www.ted.com/tedtalks/tedtalksplayer.cfm?key=e_ensler