I shall be beautiful while the earth lasts.

 

"I, Sarah Winnemucca, am a shell-flower, such as I wear on my dress.  My name is Thocmetony.  I am so beautiful!  Who will come and dance with me while I am so beautiful?  Oh, come and be happy with me!  I shall be beautiful while the earth lasts."

Sarah Winnemucca,

19th century Paiute activist

I love the unabashed self-confidence expressed in this statement, as well as the fact that Winnemucca connects her beauty to that of the Earth.

Photo: A pasqueflower glows in last light, Lory State Park, CO, March 21, 2012