I list a healing uterus plush and almost instantly I see a convo pop up. I assume that it is some disgruntled mother that followed the cute plush to a Vagina emporium and was deeply offended. I open the convo only to find this little note:
"I just wanted to say thank you xxAs fate has it, your cute uterus plush caught my eye on the 'recently added'listing, and I couldn't make sense of its shape so I had to investigate further. As I went to your shop and saw all your other items I was smiling but also cringing. Smiling at the warmth and love thats showed in each piece. Cringing because I've never liked my vagina, and have even considered surgery. I won't give you my life story, but your profile blurb bought tears to my eyes. Its a lonely and difficult relationship with your own vagina/sexuality and can only hope one day I will embrace, own and celebrate my little (big) lips like you have. "
Of course I respond, in short I let her know she does not have to go it alone and she certainly is not alone. I then offer to send her my first and only copy of the Vagina Monologues.
Another note:
"Thank you so much. You are right - its reassuring just knowing someone else feels / has felt that same self-hatred. I am so touched by your offer xx Thank you. Its not in my nature to accept things easily but I guess the healing only can start when I finally accept help. So my sincerest thank you, I would so appreciate a copy of that book. Please be sure to include your return address so I can send you a gift of thanks.Wow - JJs unite =) And would you believe I have a Diploma in Holistic Counselling? 'Holistic' in the sense that we study counselling alongside natural therapies to treat the physical, enviromental and emotions factors that contribute to our psychological and overall wellbeing. I am not practising at the moment, but the course itself has healed some deep wounds in my life and equipped me with invaluable interpersonal skills. Your compassion and vision is a gift to women. In one day you've done so much for me xx Bless your heart. I'm so glad I followed that little uterus plush to find you"
Now, my tattered copy is all wrapped up and on its way to Australia and instead of feeling sad or proud, I feel a little better.