By Terra Avilla
Celebrating the Beauty of Women’s Friendships
As I reflect on Internal Women’s Day, I really do think that part of what makes Lassen County so special, is incredible amount of women friendships that weave in and out of our community.
These relationships are not just a source of personal joy, support and love for me- they are a vibrant theme that I see in lives of countless other women as well.
In our community, these friendships provide a safe space where women can share their joys and sorrows, offer encouragement, and celebrate each other’s successes. Whether it’s through casual gatherings like MOPS, community groups like Soroptimist or Jobs Daughters, there is a lot strength and resilience to be found in the women of Lassen County.
So often, its easy for girls to get competitive, as though there’s only one spot in the world for everything — but what we see in our little corner of the world-that’s not true. It’s so important to not to cut yourself off from female friendships. I think sometimes girls get scared of other girls, but truly, I think we need each other. I’ve experienced firsthand the transformative power of women supporting each other.
I am forever grateful for the women in my life who could have seen me as competition or an adversary but instead chose to see me as a friend. Their support has been a constant source of inspiration and growth. In my career as a law enforcement officer, and simply as a person, mother, Christian, friend-I’ve had the privilege of being mentored and encouraged by some truly remarkable women.
Sergeant Laura Johnson, a legend in our law enforcement community, has been a hugesource of strength and guidance. Her support and words of wisdom have inspired me to push beyond my limits. I recall a particularly challenging situation where her advice helped me navigate a difficult case with confidence and compassion.
Captain Lacey Carney, is another woman I deeply admire. Her approach to law enforcement has been a model for me, demonstrating how effective leadership can positively impact our community. Her dedication to public safety and her ability to bring people together are qualities that I strive to emulate.
Officer Kristen Wilburn is another shining example of women’s camaraderie in action. Her kindness, professionalism, and willingness to lend a helping hand have created a ripple effect of kindness throughout my life. Her presence reminds me that even in challenging roles, empathy and compassion are essential tools for success.
Beyond my professional life, I’ve also witnessed this special camaraderie firsthand in my women’s jiu-jitsu class. Here, women from diverse backgrounds come together, not just to learn a new skill, but to support and uplift each other. Jennifer Griffith and Grace Appel are two women who consistently offer helpful words of encouragement, creating an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered.
Whether we’re celebrating each other’s victories or offering words of comfort during tough moments, this class has become a sanctuary of female solidarity.
And of course, in my simple day to life. I am so thankful for so many women for simply showing up and choosing to me kind. I look into the community and see other INCREDIBLY strong female friendships and know I am not alone. Women who support each other grow together. Period. This truth is evident in the way these women have enriched my life and career.
So I know I am late on this as International Women’s day has come and gone, but I still want to honor the very heart of what makes Lassen County such a special place to call home. To all the strong, fiery, silly, smart, empathetic, women that have told by society that you are too loud, too short, too young, too old, too …anything, don’t listen to them.
Find yourself the right tribe of women, who will cheer so loud for you -you won’t hear anything else. You all, my girl- are one of the reasons I love where we live.
