Last year, I was planning on writing a lighter blog post for between Christmas and New Year. Something light and fluffy, since most blog readers (including myself) are too busy enjoying the holidays to really pay attention to our newsfeeds.
The idea I had, was to imagine if other media apps had a “wrapped” the way Spotify does. What would be the top posts that I came back to and re-read or re-watched over and over again?
Well, my house ended up flooding in late November, turning my family’s life upside down. So instead of writing, I simply signed off for 2024. But I still had the beginnings of that post in my drafts.
Recently, I was looking for inspiration in my drafts, and I realized that all of the posts I was going to share with you back in December were by women. And since tomorrow, March 8th 2025, is International Women’s Day, I decided to share it with you now.
These videos are all on different topics, but they all inspired me in some way in 2024. Enjoy.
“But, alas…”
I’m not a sports person, but Ilona Maher gained me as a fan this year, thanks to this no-nonsense video.
Maher is a professional rugby player who helped Team USA earn bronze at the Olympics. But even Olympic athletes aren’t safe from body-shamers. Ilona’s response to a comment about her size is a lesson in confidence that we can all benefit from.
But, alas…
Ilona Maher
I am going to the Olympics
and you’re not.
Assume That I Can
This impactful video, created for World Down Syndrome Day, had me cheering (and re-watching and sharing!) It echoes so many of the feelings I have as I try to raise my disabled child in this world where everyone underestimates us.
I Choose Violence
This video comes with a content warning: discussion of sexual grooming
This song is by the songwriter behind the viral hit, “I Know Victoria’s Secret.” It tells the story of how she was groomed as a young woman, and why she chooses to not simply go away, be quiet, or heal silently.
I found this song so healing, and listened to it on repeat. As someone who is trying to heal out loud for the sake of everyone who comes after me, these words have definitely become one of my anthems for the hard days.
I choose violence
Jax
I choose war
For all the little girls that should be warned
©Ashley Lilley – First time commenting? Please read my Comment Policy.
Discover more from Ashley Lilley
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Ashley Lilley 