3 Inch Heels

So today I turned on the television and saw the female news anchor with her 3 inch heels and it made me think. When I was part of the working class I also showed up everyday in 3 inch heels. I am a tall 5 foot 9 inches so it allowed me to hit that 6 foot mark. The shoes were never, ever comfortable but they were what I needed to wear to see eye to eye with my counterparts. These are the people who would give me validation, acknowledge my ideas, and make me feel worthy of a seat at the table. Meeting them at eye level gave me that boost of confidence that I had what it took to sit in that seat.

Why did I wear the uncomfortable shoes everyday? Was this really what I needed to get acknowledged in the workplace? I wish I knew the answer. I really wish I had more self-awareness. That’s something I am working on in my retirement. We always need something to work on, right?

The uncomfortable, miserable, and soul crushing shoes make me think of what it must be like for someone on the spectrum to try to fit into the workplace when there are no accommodations to help the person be successful. In our family, we think nothing of making accommodations for a teenager on the spectrum, but once she is out in the world will everyone else be so kind? My heart hopes that when she wears the noise canceling headphones and rocks gently side to side that the rest of the world can see the same amazing young woman I see. Someone who is incredible. Someone who has overcome so much to get where she is today. Someone who has so much to contribute. Someone who can change the world.

I have thrown away the 3 inch heels. Now it’s just tennis shoes for me. The days of making myself fit in are over.There is a place for everybody at the table. Wear your comfy shoes.