When you heal yourself, you heal the world

I don’t know about you, but I’m still grieving the results of last week’s elections.

You may be amazed that I’m bringing “politics” into my business, but I would argue that these are no longer political issues that we’re addressing, these are issues of human rights and decency. 

And my life’s work is to advocate for people who haven’t had equitable opportunities.

My specific focus just happens to be women.

I help women bust through the limitations that society has placed on them. 

But I want to be clear, marginalized groups aren’t just struggling due to societal limitations that lead to inequitable access and opportunities.  

We’re also struggling because we don’t believe that we deserve as much as others, and we don’t trust that we’ll be safe to succeed in the world.

And I’m afraid that this election has reaffirmed these fears for many. 

When a woman gets too close to the top, she is struck down.

When a woman of color has the audacity to speak up, her character is attacked. 

When a woman gains too much independence and chooses to be single, she is called a crazy, bitter cat lady.

You get the point.

But I’m not here to confirm your fears, although I hope my words can provide some much-needed validation. 

I'm actually here to remind you that you’re not alone. 

That’s the message I want you to take away today.

You are not alone.

Despite what the polls say, there are millions of folx who are just like you in these important ways.

People who want better for themselves.

People who want better for their children. 

People who have made this their life’s work. 

And I agree that our advocacy work is not enough to solve the bigger systemic problems, but what I do believe in my heart of hearts is this…

Your choice to heal yourself will gradually heal the world. 

As you heal yourself, you will serve as a role model for others.

And you will take empowered and inspired action in the world.

And you will break the cycles of trauma that you inherited. 

And you will raise children and community members who don’t see themselves as entitled to the free labor of others. 

And you will inspire better from (and for) others.

And you will surround yourself with good men.

And you will show your children what it means to be treated well.

And others will seek what you have to teach them.

And you will manifest all the beauty and security you want.

And you will inspire others to heal because they'll see your joy and peace.

And more healed people, means less fear, and less greed.

And, and, and… 

The benefits go on and on. 

Rippling out into the greater world. 

When you heal yourself, you heal the world.

And, in the meantime, you will enjoy a beautiful and bountiful life.

So for now, let us grieve together.

But let us also continue to hold hope for ourselves, our children, and our world. 

Take a moment right now and close your eyes. 

Place one hand on your heart and the other on your belly.

Breathe deeply. 

And then imagine all the amazing people around this country (and the world) who want the same equity and goodness that you want. 

Imagine them filling the room with you, staying busy with their efforts. 

And now imagine yourself sitting in the center of this bustle as the fully embodied, healed, powerful, centered, and deserving woman that you are re-becoming.

Lean back and breathe deeply into the fullness of who you are.

You are powerful!

You are beautiful!

You are capable! 

And you are NOT alone!!!