Betty Ford

Betty Ford had the courage to understand she above all else was human. She had the opportunity of power but used that opportunity to give voice to those who had little else but self. She knew her frailties and realized through sharing her fears she could find strength by seeking commonality with others afraid. She spoke out about breast cancer. She talked about her addiction to pain killers. She understood that secrets turned a person inward, stale. She knew her voice could be heard, listened to, while so many other women were silenced, ignored. She was inclusive, she was a member of a village with prestige and used that identity with courage, gumption and direction. She made a difference for all women.

Michelle Bachmann wants to be President. She wants to be President for just some Americans, not those who are of the same sex and want to marry, adopt children, share in the equality the Constitution promises. She does not want to be President for those who don't embrace the God she claims as hers. She does not want to be President for seniors who need social security, workers who want a fair wage, poor people who need medical treatment or health care. She wants to be the first female President, but has no need for protecting other women who want the right to decide about their own bodies.

Two women a part of the political landscape of the nation, two women each which a legacy, each with a purpose and two women who have nothing else in common than their gender. Betty Ford looked at others and said, how can we do this together, Michelle Bachmann saying do it my way and anything else is wrong. Betty Ford understanding the frailties of life, Michelle Bachmann defining anyone with independent thought as being frail. Betty Ford speaking truth, Michelle Bachmann, finding that the truth doesn't always make her look good.

Betty Ford has passed on today, and her force and energy will surely be missed. She made history for women and demonstrated the beauty of loving one another. Michelle Bachmann is selective as to who she loves, and as to who should have any power. Her history is still being made. Kind of scary the difference between the two!

We will miss you Betty Ford.