by Dr. Elizabeth King, LCSW, CHt
I know what the name of my company may conjure…a little fluff, a lot of fun, but I want to assure you there is so much more to my vision. I want to take this opportunity to share these vital elements of what has become my biggest dream-turned-reality…a women’s movement.
“Suits” refers to the legions of ladies in our sisterhood. As our manifesto proclaims “We are doctors, poets, CEOs and teachers –Entrepreneurs, lawyers and motivational speakers. From one profession to another.” We manifest the professional energies of ourselves on a daily basis. We are driven to success. It’s a commonality and a key factor in why we are all here together, understanding that although our journeys may differ, underneath our professional persona, beats the same striving heart.
“Stilettos”, when you read my story, you will know that this has little to do with wearing high heels. In fact, I can’t even wear stilettos on my feet, but I certainly can wear them in my heart. “Stilettos” refers to the essence of our womanhood, how we embrace our femininity and what it means in our life. Our self-identification as a female is very individual and special, a radiant trait to be cherished and celebrated…especially with our sisters! You will see yourself here, as you are, and among more passionate women like you, you’ll find yourself, too.
“Lipstick”, this essential piece, in my puzzle, has moved me for years. It has been my symbol of strength, perseverance and hope.
It is important for me to share with you that I have had 36 surgeries due to polio. My surgeries to straighten my legs started when I was only six years old and have continued throughout most of my life. Many times, not knowing if I would ever walk again, I spent most of my young life in a body cast, sometimes in a hospital for up to a year at a time. I won’t lie, it was very painful, emotionally and physically. But somehow, which I didn’t understand back then, but do now, I kept going.
As soon as I was old enough to wear lipstick, I demanded my mom and my sisters wait for me outside of the surgical room with my red lipstick, and to put it on me as I was being wheeled out. My red lipstick lifted me, and became my armor of strength. It reminded me that pain was merely a moment in time. Through that small red swipe, and the revitalizing energy it gifted me, I somehow knew I was going to be okay. Interestingly enough, since then I have discovered that I am not alone. Most women use a “lipstick” to go out and face the world. They too use it not just to look pretty, but to show their strength. Having a “lipstick attitude®”, no matter what, is at the core of my message for all women. Clearly it was then that I fell in love with the color red. For me, it symbolized being passionate and living life to its fullest in spite of life circumstances. My red lipstick helps me to this day not just to survive, but to push myself to thrive.
It doesn’t matter what motivates you to be better, to be your best every day. It doesn’t matter that you might identify with your own symbols, or even what those symbols might be. What matters is that you find your fortitude to continue on your path in some way. That you forge ahead with purpose, joy and determination. With your intuitive strength you will go far.
Find your strength also in this sisterhood of acceptance and celebration, where your individuality melds as one with women answering the call to join our extraordinary movement and discover the rich gifts inherent. The true welcoming of their brethren. I now know that this is why I came back from my own adversity so many times, to be here for you, to create a community of SASSY (Smart, Assertive, Strategic, Selfless and Young-at-heart) women where we can all go to connect, laugh, lift and let the ripples emanating from our heart reach into the darkest corners to heal, grow and prosper.
My experiences as a holistic psychotherapist, teacher, healer and survivor of life is what has armed me with the tools to begin this movement.
I hope you will soon join the collective, exciting dynamic of belonging to this sisterhood.
You will never be alone.
