This morning while we worked, we had America’s Next Top Model, Cycle 11 (that’s like a season, in Tyra speak) playing in the background. Soon, watching took over as we gasped and WTF’ed our way through the first two episodes. I mean, we’ve come a long way since 2008 and it shows.
Because 2008 was a shit show.
This was the season that included a trans woman, Isis. And dear lord help me, the reactions and the way the other girls spoke about her, was embarrassing, to say the least. Then there were conversations about bodies and sexuality and it was horrid. But there was something that made me excited; the future of girls.
Because the girls I know are unique and filled with promise. The girls I know are determined for equality and for fairness. They’re bright and beautiful and strong. There is a lot to be said for those girls from 2008, they had a lot to offer too. They had to grow and change the way they look at things to support the growth of the girls of 2018.
We’ve come a long way.
And of course, there’s a way to go.
But if ten years of progress has shown me anything it’s that people change. People change and we can become more generous and great with people. The way we look at gender and sexuality is so different. Body goals are so different. There has been a genuine change in the world and thank goodness for THAT.
I think we’ve prepared a pretty amazing torch to be passed to the girls of this generation. They can’t have it yet, we have some more work to do, but one day. And when that day comes, I feel like it’s going to be in great shape. They’ve got this, and if you don’t believe me, find a 15-year-old girl and show her episode one of this show. You’ll have faith too.
I’m excited about the future of girls.
Hi! I’m Melissa Walker Horn. Around here, they call me Suger. I’m the Chief Blogger and doer of all the things here at Suger Coat It. Blogging since 1901; I love a casual ootd, taking photos, and writing about things that irk or inspire me. I love wine and cheese, long days at the beach and spending time with my family. I make stuff for the internet over at Chalkboard Digital. You know, living the sweet life.
