Speaking Up: Good for the Soul
Last year, I had a dream that we could touch at least #2020lives this year by facilitating the difficult conversations on mental health and well-being, suicide prevention as well as helping organizations with the necessary task of establishing and maintaining diverse and equitable workplaces. We have held conversations via Zoom, IGTV, and Facebook that many would be afraid to approach. As a result, we have all grown and learned about those around us and how we can be better stewards of the gifts that have been given to us.
I have been blessed with an amazing team. Daily, my team reminds me of God’s promises to me and to our cause. As we approach the one-year anniversary of 2020 Lives Changed, Inc., I’d be remiss to not share how much easier it is to work on a project that leaves the world in a better place than it was yesterday. Looking back on what we have done this year leaves me in awe. When COVID-19 hit most of our team with unemployment, we did not lose any momentum; as a matter of fact-we hit our goal before my #AmazonPrimeVideo episode of “SpeakUp” was even on the air yet. (Thank you to @Taylor Longacre-Cole for the chance to be a part of tomorrow’s event, too!)
This year started with a stint in the hospital, elimination of my corporate role, virtual learning for my 13-year-old, and a global pandemic. Needless to say, we have had plenty of chances to give up and let someone else bear the burden of ending the stigma around touchy topics. We didn’t give up. We are breaking generational curses and creating a legacy of love and transparency in our lives. I thank God daily for giving us the time and space to do the work we’ve been called to do.
This year I communicated boundaries in my life that would not exist had I not begun the hard work in therapy to understand more about myself, my soul. On more than one occasion, I have chosen to SPEAK UP for myself and also for those around me. Even with all of the uncertainty that this year brings, my goal to be a servant leader to those around me hasn’t changed.
How exciting it is to be able to do what you love every day and work with wonderful human beings who are active change catalysts!
Tomorrow, 8/27/2020 I will be back on the set of “SpeakUp!” but this time as a host for my Instagram Series “With Your Mind In Mind”. We will get to hear first hand from @Dr. Wayne Pernell about his “The Power of Being Unreasonable” presentation.
Also, I will have the pleasure of interviewing @Dr. Feyi Obamehinti on her topic “The Healing Response.” We are looking so very forward to hearing more about her non-profit Oasis Focus, Inc as well as her podcast and TV program.
This year has allowed us to have important conversations and coaching sessions on the topic of race, equality, systemic racism, and even work with some key D/FW leaders and influencers in the “The Racial Journey-Listening for Understanding” series launched by @Mike Rochelle and ABTP. With a rock-star panel of participants, @Dr. Stacia Alexander, @Jeffrey Broadnax @Deepak Seth, Mike, and I have begun the work of actively becoming the change we want to see in this world. Hope springs eternal as long as we continue to come together and work through our differences by learning more about our commonalities. Our voices are heard each week by many and lives are being touched
Our partnership with @CloudIX and MediGuru (R) will allow us to provide people with quick access to mental health providers when just-in-time support is needed. Ultimately and prayerfully, our work will deter some from ending their lives via suicide. The year 2020 has been a tough one for sure, but I have to admit that I’ve regained my voice, realized and accepted God’s purpose for my life, and been reminded that my network is full of people who want to make a difference to.
I am thankful and grateful for the year 2020. Please do follow our success on Instagram @sherryjamespmp so you can celebrate with us.
With peace and light,
Sherry
