Validation & affirmation

Validation is to accept. It’s to acknowledge our thoughts, emotions, and existence. It’s a conversation about WHY I should be supported.

Affirmation is an assertion that our thoughts, emotions, and existence are valuable. It is to offer support and encouragement. It’s to help advocate for us. It’s a conversation about HOW I can be supported.

There is a really really big difference between validation and affirmation. I am so grateful for communities that not only affirm that people like me are worthy of time, energy, and resources— but have also educated and advocated for others to believe in us too.

It’s because of you that my conversations are now starting with HOW I should be supported, and not just why. You built roads and now I’m crossing paths with people that are ready to support me in expanding those roads you built.

I’m relatively new to the game, and I’m only here because they made room. So, truly, thank you to those that have been at it for years. I’m forever grateful for your constant affirmation and for the opportunities you helped create. Thank you for your brave and bold leadership.

@janelletakesphotos January 2021.