To the guy at the grocery store. You were so kind to pay me a compliment about my hair, and never once did you come across as a creep because your heart was right. And the guy that held the door for me even though you weren’t sure how I would respond because you’ve apparently been yelled at by women for holding doors in the past. Thank you. I can hold my own door, but I don’t need to because you were gentleman enough to offer. Please never stop trying. If someone yells at you, remember that you aren’t the problem.
Thank you to the step-fathers who cherish their step-daughters and stand in when biological fathers can’t or won’t. And never once does it cross your mind that you are entitled to your step-daughter’s body. To the foster fathers who face some of the most hurting little girls and insist on being their safe space. Please, keep standing with your broad shoulders and teddy bear hugs. We need more of all of that in this world.
To the famous athletes who look in the face of what’s common in their sport and say, “We don’t buy girls. No matter how much money we make.” Even if you only make a difference to one girl, you are making a difference. Thank you for never giving in.
You men are the real heroes. I am sorry that the worst men seem to get all the airplay, but believe me when I say you matter. You are making the most difference.
Thank you,
One Grateful Mama
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This piece originally appeared at shontellbrewer.com, published with permission.
