An extract of my reflections from when I was writing ‘LUPA’ early 2022

” Something that has been present for me recently is the gift of knowledge – not only knowledge itself but the ACCESS to it.

The last few weeks (and for a few more) I am undertaking some history research for a project (my kinda sexy tehe).

While I have been in the library, diving deep into books I have continually been reminded of the gifts of this opportunity.

❤ Here’s what has come forth:

~ My gratitude for the fact that I have access to unlimited knowledge and wisdom

~ The remembrance of the women in my lineage and in the linage of the feminine who for hundreds, perhaps maybe thousands of years have not had access to written knowledge, books or academic learning.

~ That for a seriously long time women did not have the time, opportunity or permission to access a library or reading for the purposes of pleasure or self-development.

~ That my grandmothers, great grandmothers, even my mother was denied CHOICE of education, purpose and learning, in favour of wife-or childbearing duties.

🙏 I have felt waves and waves of gratitude and humility that I can follow my love of reading, writing and research 

And you know what

📖 Every book I read, every essay I write, I am also doing it for them, for the women before me that couldn’t. Whose dreams and joys were unpursued, unacknowledged, dismissed.

⭐ I take, make and jump at the opportunities because born another time I could not do it what I do now 

🤱 To my mothers before me, I owe my existence and I feel them at my back while I pursue my dreams, my purpose and my gifts.

Thank you, thank you, thank you!! 

With humble gratitude,

Rachel xx”