Live Reading WOMANHOOD Lisa Opel

On a magical evening that felt like a collective sigh of relief, “Don’t Tell Me How to Be a Woman” came to life at the Spot Gallery, a space that felt more like a sanctuary than a mere venue. This wasn’t your average reading; it was a soulful exploration, a deep dive into the heart of womanhood, motherhood, and the ever-evolving role of being a woman in the fabric of today’s society. 

Surrounded by art that challenged and embraced the essence of femininity, we embarked on a journey that was as reflective as it was empowering.

My story, woven from threads of personal experience and historical insight, aimed to peel back the layers of expectations draped over women. It was an invitation to ponder, to question, and ultimately, to reclaim the narrative of our own lives. The conversation around womanhood and motherhood, often boxed into neat, societal packages, was unfurled into a vibrant tapestry, showcasing the strength, resilience, and beauty of women’s experiences across ages.

The impetus behind my tale was simple yet profound: to echo the silent whispers of countless women seeking permission to simply ‘be’. 

In a world where femininity is often scripted by external forces, my narrative was a gentle but firm reminder that our vulnerabilities are not weaknesses but wellsprings of power. It was about shedding the ‘shoulds’, embracing our imperfections, and celebrating the unscripted beauty of our individual journeys.

The warmth and openness with which the audience received this message were beyond inspiring. It was as if each word resonated, sparking a light within, illuminating shared experiences and fostering a sense of community and understanding. It was clear that the thirst for authentic connection, for stories that mirror our own, runs deep.

The evening at Spot Gallery was a reminder that the story of womanhood is not a singular narrative but a chorus of voices, each distinct yet harmoniously intertwined. As we continue to navigate the complexities of being a woman in today’s world, let’s cherish the power of our stories, the beauty of our vulnerabilities, and the strength that comes from embracing our authentic selves.

Here’s to the journey of womanhood – may we all find the courage to live our stories with the fullness of our hearts, unscripted and unapologetically ourselves.

Thank you Sabela Garcia Cuesta, Erez Gabay, THE.SPOT Gallery and Sincronia Studios.

In this spirit of exploration and empowerment, I’d love to share some literary companions that have been beacons of light on my own journey of embracing femininity:

1. “Women Who Run With the Wolves” by Clarissa Pinkola Estés – This book is like a song for the soul, a call back to the wild, instinctual energy that resides within every woman.
2. “The Awakening” by Kate Chopin – A daring exploration of desire, identity, and the confines of society, this novel resonates with the longing for freedom that whispers in the heart of every woman.
3. “Becoming” by Michelle Obama – Michelle’s journey is a testament to the power of carving out your own space in the world, of living your truth amidst the clamor of expectations.
4. “The Second Sex” by Simone de Beauvoir – A groundbreaking work that dissects the layers of female oppression and lays bare the quest for autonomy and liberation.
5. “Untamed” by Glennon Doyle – Glennon’s raw, honest narrative is a mirror reflecting the chaos and beauty of learning to honor one’s true self in a world that often asks us to conform.