Several years ago, we ran a television commercial celebrating “girl power.” Tasked with the responsibility of writing copy that sums up in :30 the strength of a woman, Cheri wrote “I AM.” To this day, it remains one of my favorites. I thought of those words when I photographed Raye at Stone Age Climbing Gym. Watching this beautiful little girl attack that wall made ME smile, for she was power, determination and the face of an angel strapped into a climbing harness.
I AM.
I am strong
And smart
I know what I want
and what I don’t
I’m not just a face in the crowd
I am a complex individual.
I am part athlete
Part princess
I am a daughter
A sister
A best friend
I AM ME.
And the world better get ready
Because
I AM.
