Be Brave & Share On

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“The most courageous act is still to think for yourself. Aloud.”
Coco Chanel

As the blogging portion of Ms. in the Biz comes to a close, I’ve been thinking a lot about what a beautiful archive of writing that we (and most especially the wonderful Helenna Santos) have built together. I’ve also been thinking a lot about what it means to put your voice–whether in writing, performance, or through any other work of art–out there for the world to see and react to.

Using our voices in any capacity requires a certain amount of bravery. There was (and in many ways, still is) a time when women were discouraged from engaging themselves, asserting their opinions, and being a major force even in progressive, artistic communities. You don’t need to look any farther back than the new Ghostbusters release this summer to see the threads of this continuing to weave themselves through the narrative. The very fact that these threads do still exist is a call for each of us to continue to find ways to make our voices heard, to make art that helps illustrate our passions and opinions, to share relentlessly. Even when it is hard.

I’ve personally been so inspired by the words I’ve read on Ms. in the Biz, and equally as inspired by the amazing art members of this community have created. They’ve certainly moved me towards taking more control of my own voice, and my own artistic pursuits. I’m genuinely grateful for that. Reading about your projects, how you’ve brought your visions to life, and put yourselves out there to the world in so many ways reminds me to be bolder, to not get discouraged or feel that my own voice doesn’t matter.

I’m so looking forward to the next chapter, for Ms. in the Biz as a community and also to see the ways in which everyone who has written for this site continues to use their voice and share all of the unique gifts they have to offer the world, both in art and life. I encourage you to continue writing, continue being brave with your voices. Always remember that you have so much to offer, even on days when you question the truth of that fact. (And please don’t ever let anyone try to tell you otherwise.)

If and when you do share more, please let me know! Our community continues, and I’d love nothing more than to help spread your successes online and engage with you when you’re looking for advice or support! You can find me at @mshunterdrago.