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Because I Said So began as a writing prompt on a difficult day. I set myself a simple challenge. What if I translated the energy of Anita Renfroe’s comedy song “Momisms” into a tender, original scene between a mother and a daughter. The result is this kitchen story. It is not included in my forthcoming book Mother’s Advice, but it points directly at the heart of it.

In the space of an evening, Sadie arrives home with an invitation that could change her path. Anita meets her with care, caution, and a handful of well-worn sayings. What starts as a tussle of wills becomes a conversation about safety, trust, and love. The emotional high point comes when Anita lets the power struggle go and says what matters. Whatever you choose, I will still love you. I am afraid. That honesty opens the room. Together, they trade fear for a plan.

I am sharing this as a teaser for the book and as a thank you to early readers who have encouraged this work. The manuscript explores the advice many of us missed, wished for, or only understood later. This scene sits beside that project as a small homage to the phrases that shaped us. It is inspired by Renfroe’s “Momisms” but uses only original text.

If you enjoy this, you can follow for updates on Mother’s Advice, add your favourite “mumism” to the comments, or share the piece with someone who needs a gentle reminder that love does not depend on the choice.

Credits and notes

Inspiration credit: Anita Renfroe’s “Momisms” (“The Mom Song”).

This piece is original and does not quote lyrics.

Themes: family, boundaries, independence, acceptance.

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Credits and notes

Inspiration credit: Anita Renfroe’s “Momisms” (“The Mom Song”).

This piece is original and does not quote lyrics.

Themes: family, boundaries, independence, acceptance.

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I'm Cynthia Alison Fortlage, and I write about identity, belonging, leadership, and the courage to live with Acceptance without Understanding™.

Most of my work is non-fiction, drawn from decades of working with teams across more than 30 countries, as well as my own lived experiences navigating cultural, gender, and societal norms. Every book I write is rooted in truth, offering practical insights and heartfelt stories that help readers see themselves — and others — in new ways.

Occasionally, I write fiction when a story can make an idea more vivid or relatable, but my heart is in sharing real-world lessons that inspire change.

I'm working toward one audacious goal: to teach one billion people the life-changing practice of acceptance by 2050, through my books, talks, and a future global foundation.

If you're looking for writing that's honest, hopeful, and sparks deeper thinking, I'd be honoured to have you join me on this journey.

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Because I Said So

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