I was a young girl during the early 1970s as our culture began to shift and opportunities opened for women, thanks to the women’s liberation movement. At this time, the Mary Tyler Moore show was my favorite television viewing, but for me it provided more than entertainment; Mary represented a fulfilling way of life that was not typical in those days. She was a free and single career woman, enjoying life without the drama of a husband and children. She demonstrated that life could be fulfilling with an exciting job and interesting friends and colleagues. She showed us we had options for our lives. And I wanted the option that Mary represented.
In the television show, Mary worked in a TV newsroom. She was beautiful, graceful and poised. She was kind and sensitive, yet even in her predominantly male workplace, she commanded respect because she spoke her truth. Mary enjoyed her job and rose through the ranks because of her ingenuity and dedication. At home, Mary lived in her own cool apartment, and enjoyed fun friendships with her eccentric neighbor, Rhoda. Together they traversed life’s challenges and had fun doing so. They didn’t need a boyfriend or husband to make them happy.
Mary Tyler Moore’s character made a big impact on me. I grew up knowing I would be an independent woman with a career that I would love and friends who would enrich my life. I fulfilled that vision, and today, I continue to create a life that is rampant with opportunity and overflowing with joyful relationships. I thank Mary Tyler Moore for showing me the lifestyle that has allowed me to share my gifts and fulfill my dreams. She is truly my Heroine. And I hope to be a role model for girls and help them see the joys of following their heart and living lives that are rich, fulfilling and fun.
-Meloney H.