How I found love...

À mon âme sœur.

There is something about you, mon amour, that none of us can explain. I never thought I would be so deep into this, but I'm regretting nothing. There's something about you that keeps me alive, that keeps us together. That power fuels our fight, making us fearless of what's to come. Believe me, we can do anything!
It all started that July, with an eye contact and a smile perhaps, I can't remember. But the way you used to hold me I recall, on cold days like today. I miss our hugs and kisses, your wise advice too. You taught me so much about life and love, about us. You are my anchor, and you are so strong!
I'm still mad that you didn't tell me how much you were suffering. I would have tried something earlier, been more active and less brainwashed. Why didn't you warn me that I too had to go through a lot, just because of my love for you. You should have told me that this wasn't a game and I had to be stronger, against them all.
Don't worry, I'll keep fighting for your sake although it's so hard. I don't regret the burden we now share since that memorable moment in your arms. Whenever it hurts, I'll think about your loving words!
You are everywhere I go. "Can't you stop following me?" I would have laughed after saying this, if today were a good day. I see your face, and just want to wipe down all tears until you forget that we live in an unfair world. I want to tell you that nothing can keep us from winning this battle, nous sommes des vainqueurs!
Do you think it's easy to forget our problems? Don't you realize that I'm aware of how society was taught to treat us? I'm here, trying to be positive but I can't forget the day you were told that everything that happens is your fault, or the day they kindly explained how you were different and had to willingly follow their lead. Yes you are different, we are different. We all have different paths and I admire you for standing tall in this deathly battlefield. You are strong and beautiful!
I'll say it today: I love you and I promise to cherish and support you. I'll fight to give you what you deserve. I'll always be by your side, no matter where I am.
I need you to stay strong. To keep smiling, making me laugh, getting me motivated. Please stay the one that inspires me to hustle every day and make this world a little better for all of us, despite hardships.

The first day of my life, that July, I found you and many more like you thereafter. I found love that first time I looked into a woman's eyes. You all are my soulmates.
Woman, women, thank you for bearing the burden of life and oppression. Thank you for loving despite unfairness against you. It's very sad that we are still celebrating your suffering, when will it get better?

To all women in my life. I love the connection  I have with you, and I owe you tons. With you I'll laugh, with you I'll cry and with you I'll fight. Mothers and sisters, today the world is celebrating you!


With love,
          Fatou Baka Diop