Hlootoo's Art

patron-saint-of-smart-asses:

Sacajawea, a Shoshone native, was pregnant and gave birth in the wilderness while traveling with the Lewis and Clark Expedition as an interpreter and guide.

Empress Maria Theresa ruled the vast Holy Roman Empire, waging wars and spreading her political influence, and had 13 children.

Marie Curie continued her scientific studies and experiments while raising six children, some growing up to become prominent scientists as well.

Maya Angelou was a teen mom who grew up to be a powerful voice in the world of literature and social reform.

Christine de Pizan was a widow in the French Court who raised her three children through her poetic and philosophical wit, defending the integrity and honor of women against sexist notions of the day.

Obianuju Ekeocha, who grew up poor, is a Nigerian biochemist with a large brood of her own, and is unafraid to speak up against the false-charity towards African nations committed by many Westerners.

So many female rulers, farmers, artisans, fighters, pioneers, innovators, healers: all of them were mothers.

If you are a mother facing a pregnancy that is making life difficult, I want you to know that our foremothers have struggled in the past and succeeded.  Some were even valiant! 

You have options and you deserve to choose them in ways that are empowering to you and to your offspring.

Your pregnancy is not a weakness: it is a hardship and responsibility that you can hold up in triumph. 

You are strong.