I’m going to do what Laurel Thatcher Ulrich would advise and use the written record instead of relying on my memory.
The 1973 decision to stay in Boston changed the trajectory of my life, as did Exponent II.
I am grateful for the wonderful women I met through Exponent II who have shown such courage, integrity, and competency over these past fifty years.
Helping with the production of the paper, hearing women who were great role models speak at Exponent Day Dinners, retreats, and in intimate groups, changed my life.
Like me, that first issue shows its age, and I turn its yellowed pages gingerly, careful to not cause any more tears along the folds.
I think a DNA blood sample would verify my connection to it.
I hate to think what I would have missed in my life had I never encountered Exponent.
I am struck by the fact that it has also always been bold, clear in its purpose, and confident in its mission.
For me, the retreat succeeds because of principles laid out during Friday night introductions, as conceived by Carrel Sheldon.
Except for two glorious days each fall in New Hampshire at the Exponent retreat, where I get to be a whole person, with all of my various identities, imperfections, challenges, and contradictions.
Exponent II provides feminist forums for women and gender minorities across the Mormon spectrum to share their diverse life experiences in an atmosphere of trust and acceptance. Through these exchanges, we strive to create a community to better understand and support each other.
