The Power of Women
When I started working for myself again in 2018, I made it a point to spend time in New York City, Los Angeles, and other cities that inspire me while in between projects. It’s not just the hustle of the big cities that light me up, but the people I know there, the food, and the “vibes”. So much of my work involves reporting on culture, so taking the time to connect with folks and get a pulse on what’s “trending” is critical.
Last week I did my first recharge trip like this in a long time. When planning my short visit in LA I knew I would be working, and I had planned to go surfing, but I also really wanted to host a meet-up. No agenda, just “vibes”. I invited a group of people I know in town who exist in that liminal space between friendship and work. Some are collaborators, others are clients. In total there ended up being about 25 folks who came through and were open to connecting with new people for no real reason or occasion other than I invited them.
Historically, I haven’t always felt like I fit in with groups of girls or in highly femme spaces (you should hear how hard Kim had to push for me to join Ladies Who Strategize!). I am an outspoken feminist, yes, but it was never my intention to host a rah rah girl power event. Somehow though it seemed to happen organically that nearly everyone who came together last minute for this inaugural Maud & Moon happy hour is a woman. We connected over Tarot, dating, new jobs, and our respective COVID experiences. Good “vibes” achieved.
The next morning at the airport, I got an alert about the SCOTUS ruling on Roe v Wade. And it made everything about the night before make sense. The purpose was always connection. We gather like this to be reminded that we exist in community. When the world is trying to hold women and birthing people down- personally and professionally- we need to know there is always someone who will show up and stand in your corner. She may be someone you last saw 10 years ago in Boston. Or she may be someone you just met the night before at a seemingly random happy hour. There are women out there who will be there no questions asked and remind you that you are never alone.
For someone whose job it is to report on what’s happening in culture culture, I don’t think I could've left with a bigger takeaway than that.
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Post scripts:
Thank you to Ruby for being there as our social buffer and performing readings for the folks in attendance!
Thank you to the only guy who showed up for being a trusted ally and being completely chill amidst the presence of that many powerful women - you know who you are.