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Brave Souls: Unfolding Their True Selves

Long ago, a young maiden named Joan lived in a small French village. She was brave and felt a strong calling.

Armored maiden with determined eyes, ready for battle in her village, senses her unique destiny

Joan heard voices of saints guiding her. She knew she had to help France be free from invaders.

Armored maiden with determined eyes, ready for battle inspired by divine voices to aid France

Dressing as a knight, Joan led soldiers into battle. Many admired her courage and strength.

Armored maiden with determined eyes, ready for battle, in armor, leads troops, showing her bravery

Then there was Chevalier d'Eon, a clever spy who served the French king. D'Eon's true character was a mystery.

Introduction of Elegant figure, adept at dressing in their desired style, a mysterious spy

In England, d'Eon dressed as a lady. Some days a lady, some days a gentleman, d'Eon was skilled in disguise.

D'Eon adeptly switches between gender presentations

People whispered, unsure of d'Eon's gender. Yet, it didn't hinder d'Eon's success as both diplomat and spy.

Elegant figure, adept at dressing in their desired style successful despite public uncertainty

Across the sea, in Denmark, Lili Elbe was born as Einar. An artist, Einar was not happy with his life.

Graceful artist with a hopeful smile, finding true happiness's early life as Einar, the troubled artist

One day, Einar dressed as Lili. She felt this was her true self. Wearing dresses, Lili was finally happy.

Einar finds happiness presenting as Lili

Lili bravely decided to be herself completely. With hope in her heart, she went on a special journey.

Lili's decision to live authentically, setting on her path

Lili became one of the first to have surgery, showing the world the courage it takes to be oneself.

Lili's historic surgery, highlighting her courage

These three lived long ago, but their stories remind us to be kind and brave in being who we are.

Reflecting on Armored maiden with determined eyes, ready for battle's, Chevalier's, and Lili's courage

Everyone has their own path, just like Joan, d'Eon, and Lili. Let's celebrate each person's true self.

Encouragement to recognize and honor individual journeys

Reflection Questions

  • How do you think Joan felt when people trusted her as a leader?
  • Why do you think it's important for Chevalier d'Eon to be accepted for who they are?
  • What can we learn from Lili Elbe's bravery in being true to herself?

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