Who Was Frida?
I just read the book entitled What Would Frida Do? It’s a guide to living boldly. Frida Kahlo was a Mexican artist who became famous, as much for her joie de vie, as for her art. Overall, she was her own woman, doing self-portraits long before selfies came into fashion.
Nothing stopped Frida from pursuing her passions, even the multiple health issues she encountered throughout her lifetime. Unfortunately, this included a leg amputation below the knee. But even that didn’t stop her from living life to the max.
To quote Frida, “Feet, what do I need you for when I have wings to fly?” She did exactly what she wanted to do in her own passionate way without regard to outside influences or opinions, and in that way, she was a model for women today.
I felt energized when I read about Frida. Her biography is like a permission slip…permission to be who you really are.
We Miss You, Amelia
Another woman I admire is Amelia Earhart. Aviation was her passion, and in following that passion, she became the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean. She visualized what she wanted to achieve and went for it. To quote Amelia, “the most effective way to do it is to do it.”
How many times are our dreams blocked by procrastination, fed by insecurity or the imposter syndrome? If this sounds like you, channel your inner Amelia. Her life grants you permission.
He Slipped the Surly Bonds of Earth
Finally, having purpose and passion aren’t gender specific. One of the bravest men who’ve walked the planet in my lifetime is John Glenn, Jr. In 1962, he became the first American to orbit the earth. This was a first. There were no safety nets below. He was putting his life on the line while the whole world watched. I admire his wife, who supported him in a mission with no guarantee of success or survival.
So, next time you gaze at the moon, think of John Glenn and his wife, Annie.
You Too!
Finally, how can we emulate the courage of these three pioneers of space, art, and aviation?
If your first inclination is to say, “No way, Jose”, I have news for you. Anything you desire with passion and purpose is within your reach. It may not manifest in exactly the form you ordered, but keep your expectations alive. It’s germinating.
But first, you have to get started. So, start now. Create the steps you need to take. Don’t wait. As Amelia would say, “the most effective way to do it is to do it.”
Worked for her…it can work for you.
Minute Meditations for the Soul 