From Silence, We Bloom
How stories of first periods create a butterfly effect of connection, understanding, and change.
These stories were shared by visitors to Ms. Moxie’s Moon Shop over the course of 28 days — one full menstrual cycle.
Some stories are funny. Some awkward. Some confusing, joyful, lonely, empowering, scary, or completely ordinary. Together, they paint a picture of something deeply human that so many people experience, yet so rarely talk about openly.
Because menstruation has long been treated as taboo, many people grow up thinking their experience is strange, embarrassing, or isolating. But when we share our stories, we begin to realize just how common our feelings and experiences truly are.
Each story in this installation is displayed on a butterfly — a symbol of transformation, growth, and becoming. Butterflies also remind us of the butterfly effect: the idea that even small actions can create waves of change.
A single shared story can help someone feel seen.
A single conversation can challenge shame.
A single moment of openness can ripple outward into connection, understanding, and community.
This installation exists to make space for those stories.
To honor first periods not as something shameful or hidden, but as moments worthy of conversation, connection, and reflection.
As you read, we invite you to notice the similarities, the differences, and the humanity woven through every experience. Somewhere in these stories, you may find a piece of your own.
Reflection Questions
1. What messages did you receive about periods growing up?
2. Did your first period experience make you feel prepared, confused, supported, embarrassed, proud, or something else entirely?
3. What do you wish someone had told you before your first period?
4. Which story feels most familiar to you? Which feels completely different?
5. How might openly sharing these experiences help people feel less alone?
6. What would change if periods were treated as normal conversations instead of taboo topics?
Keep the Conversation Going
Talk about periods.
Share your story with someone you trust, someone you just met, to a room full of people, on social media, or at Ms. Moxie's.
Ask someone you love about theirs. Listen with curiosity and compassion.
Every conversation helps chip away at stigma, normalize menstruation, and remind people that they are not alone.
Thank you for being part of the cycle.
