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Julie Gabrielli's avatar

“I feel at home around a uterus.” Mary Beth, you have such a great voice. Thanks for this.

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Julie Gabrielli's avatar

“A compelling story of sacrifice loses its power if choice is removed.” 🕊️

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Mary Beth Rew Hicks's avatar

Oh Julie you're the best. I am not sure about submitting? But thank you for the vote of confidence, and for picking out quotes - always so fun to see what pieces stand out to readers.

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Julie Gabrielli's avatar

Are you submitting this anywhere? It’s so good.

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Stacy Boone's avatar

I believe two things: fairy tales are only a moment without a backstory and two, people are overly concerned about what happens in the bedrooms and bathrooms of others. Fairy tales want us to imagine that it will all work out for the better, with a happy ending. A newborn swaddled in a pink or blue blanket, cooing, perfect, and sweet going home to a place of safety and plentitude. The truth is much more complex.

The point being a choice is for the individual to make. Circumstances to which only she is familiar, and she has intimate details with. Right now, I believe so many of us feel a need to stand for something, to advocate for something, and your consistent messaging with the undercurrent of your own story is worthy of talking about. Continue to be this beacon of personhood, it suits you and the writing you share.

How amazing it is that you are sharing three books, yet there exists so much more in this post.

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Mary Beth Rew Hicks's avatar

The truth is complex! I appreciate you taking the time to lay out your thoughts here, Stacy. I would love to earn the title "Beacon of Personhood" wow, that's just such a compliment. I am so grateful for your friendship.

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Sarah Savage's avatar

Beautifully put, Stacy!

Mary Beth, I appreciate the 3 books. They're a great entry point; I bought Pam Houston's.

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Stacy Boone's avatar

I'm not sure what I feel about Pam Houston's book. Tell me after you read.

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Sarah Savage's avatar

Oh my! Will do.

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Mary Beth Rew Hicks's avatar

Did you already read it? Interested in your thoughts if you feel like sharing! And Sarah, thank you for reading - glad this was useful!

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Stacy Boone's avatar

No, I have not read. I've been a reluctant Houston reader lately. To answer the next question, I'm not sure why but maybe an interview that gave me pause.

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Mary Beth Rew Hicks's avatar

Oh gotcha. I have never liked listening to Jack Johnson and most people love him but... gag. To each her own! :)

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