If I ever had a Taylor Swift style girl-squad, I would ask Rosie Batty to join. Because nothing says badass, warrior, feminist-leader like Batty.
In late December last year I had the honour of meeting Rosie at an event. It was her last official event as the 2015 Australian of the Year. So today, on “Invasion Day”, I would like to remember the few words I was lucky enough to share with her.
*At this point I should mention if you don’t know who Rosie Batty is, you should probably just Google her because I can’t be bothered explaining for someone who clearly has been living under a rock*
I was nervous to meet Rosie. Nervous like when you do a big poop at a friend’s house and it won’t flush no matter how many times you try and you know your friend will eventually find out how disgusting you are, and you don’t know whether to just sit down and wait to die, or cover the offender with a load of toilet paper. So yeah, I was nervous.
I was introduced by a co-worker, and I immediately froze. What do I say to this woman who I admire so much without coming across like a complete, incompetent moron. What if I say the wrong thing? What if I upset her?
So here was our exchange, as best as I can remember in my ‘poo-flushing nervous’ state.
Me: I just wanted to say that I think you are absolutely inspiring, and amazing for what you’ve done considering what you have been through. I know you probably hear that a lot, but I had to say it.
Rosie: *smiles* I do hear that a lot, but it’s important that I keep hearing it.
And just like that my nerves dissipated. Despite all the shit she’s been through, and despite the amount of times she’s probably heard those same words like ‘brave, hero, courageous and incredible’ being bandied about, she still managed to be so humble.
We went on to talk about podcasts, her book, and the men who are intimidated by her. It was phenomenal.
So as her time as Australian of the Year comes to an end, I would like to thank Rosie for all she has done for women all over Australia, and probably across the seas. For putting a face to the horrendous name of domestic violence, and for being a complete non-fuck giver when it comes to her cause. I know this won’t be the last of her important work. And if I ever meet her again, I will ask her to join my girl-squad.
Candidly Her 