I look at Avery Jackson with her pink hair, t-shirt, and tights and I think, "That's what courage looks like." For how does a 9 year-old know herself so well? And in knowing herself, she is setting herself apart in ways that may not always be compatible with her friend's or neighbor's opinions, and that may invite ridicule or scorn.

Yet there she is proud, perhaps a little defiant too, but committed to herself in spite of any obstacles. As she says, "The best thing about being a girl, is now I don't have to pretend to be a boy." I can feel the relief and freedom in that statement. And it makes me very happy.

I am so proud to have