Empowering Our Voices: A Story of Change
Disclaimer: I believe this to be true as long as we don’t take our foot off the gas and continue to push through the next two weeks!
Our Neighborly Journey
Mr. RenaRF and I have been proud residents of a lovely townhouse in Northern Virginia for many years. In 2004, we welcomed new neighbors next door—a single father and his daughter, whom we’ll call “Katie” to respect her privacy. We’ve always believed in building strong relationships with those around us, whether it’s sharing a cookout or lending a helping hand. It’s just who we are.
The Strength of Family
Harry, Katie’s dad, is an incredible father. He’s quiet but has a great sense of humor once you get to know him. Katie’s mom has struggled with mental health issues, which meant that Harry took on the primary role of raising Katie. He made sure she was active in various activities, including martial arts, where she excelled and even traveled internationally to compete.
A Safe Space for Katie
As Katie grew older, she became a latch-key kid, often home alone after school. Luckily, I was working from home and could be there for her if she needed anything. While I didn’t replace her mother, I was happy to offer support and guidance whenever she needed it. We became like family, always ready to listen and help.
Supporting Katie Through Life’s Changes
When Katie graduated high school, we were there to celebrate her achievements. When her dad remarried someone she wasn’t thrilled about, we provided a listening ear and a comforting presence. Even when they moved away, I helped them pack up their belongings, ensuring that Katie felt supported during this transition.
The Importance of Voting
In 2016, I had a conversation with Katie about the upcoming presidential election—her first opportunity to vote. To my surprise, she expressed apathy towards both candidates, Clinton and Trump. I tried to encourage her to see the importance of voting, but she didn’t seem interested. This reflected a common feeling among her generation, who often feel that their voices don’t matter.
Katie’s Journey to Medical School
After college, Katie was accepted into medical school, but she faced a daunting challenge: $250,000 in student loans! Despite this, she was determined to pursue her dreams. Initially interested in pediatrics, she later chose psychiatry, focusing on helping those in the criminal justice system. Throughout her journey, we stayed in touch, especially during tough times like losing one of her beloved cats.
A Turning Point: The Abortion Issue
Recently, I noticed a change in Katie. She posted on Instagram about rising infant mortality rates in Texas and other states with strict abortion laws. This caught my attention because she rarely shares her thoughts online. The next day, she made another post announcing that she voted for the first time! This was significant, especially since she had previously shown little interest in voting.
Understanding the Impact of Abortion Rights
It seems that the issue of abortion rights motivated Katie to take action. She had previously sat out the 2016 and 2020 elections, but now she felt compelled to make her voice heard. This shows how important the abortion issue is for many young voters, especially women.
Why Voting Matters
Some people say that the economy is the most important issue right now. While it’s true that people care about jobs and money, we can’t forget about basic human rights. Women deserve equality and the right to make choices about their bodies. These rights are not something we can afford to overlook.
We Can Make a Difference Together
As we approach the upcoming elections, it’s crucial to remember that every vote counts. Women are passionate about their rights, and issues like abortion are motivating younger voters to participate. We must continue to advocate for our values and ensure that our voices are heard.
Keep Pushing Forward!
I understand that there’s a lot of stress and anxiety in the world today. However, Katie’s story reminds us that change is possible. We can inspire others to join us in making a difference. With just two weeks to go, let’s keep pushing forward together!
