This Is Girl: Bella
According to mom, Melissa, 14 year old Bella, “is the most unique child. She is reliable, helpful, and thoughtful. She has had to adapt to life in ways that most adults don’t have to. She’s a great kid with a mature insight. What I love most is the way she cares for others. She is highly empathetic and sensitive to the needs and feelings of other. I am grateful to be her mom.”
A few months ago when this project began and we all gathered for the first session (that ended up getting canceled due to a power outage!), I asked all the girls some questions about being a girl in this world, and Bella was quick to answer with thoughts many adults have a hard time expressing. She’s not afraid to show her true self and thoughts, and I admire that.
K: Tell me about your outfit? Why are you dressed like this today?
B: It’s a Captain America shirt. It’s something I’m passionate about. It’s something that girls aren’t “supposed” to like.
K: What makes you YOU? How are you unique?
B: I don’t give a crap about what other people think. I’m passionate about Broadway and movies and books like Marvel, Harry Potter, and Star Wars.
K: What makes you happy?
B: My family, my fandoms, and my friends.
K: What makes you sad?
B: Seeing people that I love get hurt.
K: Who is your favorite person right now?
B: My mom because she is resilient.
K: What’s your favorite thing about yourself?
B: I’m kind.
K: What are your dreams?
B: Have a good job and a good life. Go to Comic-con someday.
K: What does being a girl mean to you?
B: That you can be yourself and like what you want to like.
