Yesterday, the universe delivered a surprise to my doorstep. There it was—a box emblazoned with the iconic Barbie logo in gloriously bright pink. My curiosity piqued, and I opened it to discover the unparalleled, the legendary… Weird Barbie! Yes, you read that right, Weird Barbie!

My brother, the mastermind behind this delightful surprise, knew how much I adored playing with Barbies as a child. Through her, I could envision being anything I wanted to be when I grew up…I could be limitless! He also remembered how I gushed over the new Barbie movie that premiered last summer. Channeling our shared, wonderfully unorthodox sense of humor, he hunted down a collector's edition of Weird Barbie and sent it my way.

Upon calling to thank him for this unusual (yet cherished) gift, we laughed at his choice's perfection. You see, he's called me "Dork" since we were kids, and Weird Barbie resonates with that nickname in the best way possible. It's a badge of honor celebrating our brand of "dorkiness."

Weird Barbie now proudly occupies a prime spot on my desk, a daily reminder of my brother and our childhood shenanigans. As I gazed at her, I began reflecting on the lessons

2 / 3

learned from my favorite childhood toys and books. Barbie was a staple, but another beloved item was my well-worn copy of "The Velveteen Rabbit." While they seem worlds apart, Weird Barbie and The Velveteen Rabbit offer profound lessons about authenticity, love, and transformation.

For the uninitiated, Weird Barbie results from a child's boundless creativity. With unconventional haircuts, marker tattoos, and a wardrobe that screams "fashion rebel," she stands as a beacon of imaginative play. Unlike her pristine counterparts, Weird Barbie teaches us that beauty and worth are found in uniqueness and individuality. She's the ultimate lesson in embracing your quirks and letting your freak flag fly.

Margery Williams' "The Velveteen Rabbit" tells the touching story of a stuffed rabbit yearning to become real through the love of his owner. The rabbit's journey of wear and tear, reflecting a deep bond with the child, culminates in his transformation into a real rabbit. This classic tale illustrates the transformative power of genuine affection and the essence of becoming real.

Both Weird Barbie and The Velveteen Rabbit emphasize the importance of authenticity. Weird Barbie, with her unconventional appearance, defies societal standards of perfection. She encourages us to celebrate our imperfections and embrace our individuality. Similarly, The Velveteen Rabbit's journey from a shiny new toy to a worn, beloved companion underscores that true worth comes from being loved for who we are, not our outward appearance.

Weird Barbie becomes a cherished figure through children's imaginative and affectionate play. Love drives her transformation from a standard doll to a unique creation. In "The Velveteen Rabbit," the boy's unwavering affection brings the rabbit to life, symbolizing how genuine love can catalyze profound change. Both stories highlight that love and acceptance have the power to help us grow into our true selves.

Weird Barbie, with her ever-evolving look and questionable fashion choices, and The Velveteen Rabbit, with his physical wear and eventual transformation, remind us that change is an inevitable part of life. Growth often involves challenges, and our experiences—even the difficult ones—contribute to our development and ultimate transformation.

What are the lessons from Barbie and Rabbit that modern leaders can learn? Although Weird Barbie and The Velveteen Rabbit hail from different realms of childhood storytelling, they share themes that resonate deeply with children and adults. They teach us to embrace our authenticity, recognize the transformative power of love, and accept the changes that come with growth. Strong leadership demands authenticity, inviting and embracing change, and a genuine love for those you lead.

So, to all the trailblazing women leaders out there: be weird, be real, and embrace your inner dork. Our unique traits and experiences make us truly valuable, and the love we share is the most potent catalyst for the transformation of us all.

Keep shining and keep embracing your weirdness!

With dorky affection,

Dena