 Showing up when I am called is something I’ve been practicing for over two decades. Whenever I feel "the nudge", call, or impulse; when things just line up, and I feel something guiding me, I have learned to listen because I trust in my internal guidance and wisdom. I have learned to say YES when I am called, and I have never been disappointed. My intention for as long as I can remember has been, "How may I Serve?"... Where would you have me go? What would you have me say? And to whom? How can I help? Where can I make a contribution today? When I receive an opportunity that feels aligned, I follow my instincts and show up...which always supports, inspires and impacts my own journey. I was given the opportunity to show up and speak three days this week, with another two events next week. All different topics, and very different audiences, but a common theme of Soul Awakening, healing and empowerment. I am showing up, leaning in, and saying yes. Is it a lot? Yes. Is it worth it, YES! Showing up to these engagements, I know that I am supposed to be the one making an impact, yet witnessing others awaken and become more open, loving and empowered is what makes an impact on me. I always leave speaking events, trainings, lectures and retreats feeling deeply honored, humbled and touched by the softening and opening I see. I am deeply moved by the beauty, courage, and strength of those around me, and the power of being willing to see things from a different perspective. When I was younger I was always the one volunteering to be in the nursery at church, or babysit kids outside of church, and then in high school became a Camp Counsellor for my elementary schools 5th grade camp. I loved those experiences and always felt I somehow had a special connection with kids. After the pain and trauma of very turbulent teenage years, I felt almost an urgency to work with pre-teens to support them so that they hopefully wouldn’t have to go through the pain I did. I wanted to give it to them real, and tell it like it is without sugar coating it, or thinking that “just say no” is enough. I wanted them to be empowered and to know that who they are is enough. I wanted to help them make smart decisions, and realize that the life beyond these years is so much greater than the hurt they might be currently experiencing…and I knew in my heart that opportunity would arrive if indeed my story would make an impact. This week I was given an opportunity to volunteer teach for a group of 24 girls ages 11-14 for Michelle Majors Spring Break Leadership Camp. (pictured above!) Michelle asked if I could speak on self-esteem and leadership identity, so of course, I said yes. The first day I spoke about self-esteem, self-worth, self-love and confidence, and most importantly, what can happen when you don't have it. I shared my own story of pain and trauma that I experienced as teenager, and how different it would have been had I known my worth beyond the labels I had given myself like “Heather, the dancer”. I shared how I healed my story, and am proud to be living the life I am now. They now know that everything is happening for them, that there is an opportunity for healing, growth, evolution, love, forgiveness, and strength waiting for them if they are courageous enough to keep digging until they hit gold. They know their stories don't define them, and if I can transform my pain into purpose, so can they... They identified what they value in themselves and others, they made declared to themselves, and each other to RISE above the haters, gossip, and drama of their lives...to stay focused on what matters most. On their vision, on the impact they want to make, on how they want to lead. Many seeds were planted, and I pray that they find the courage, and strength to water them. They deserve strong, empowered, intuitive, compassionate leaders to lead them and keep them focused on what matters most. And to see them fully, let them know that who are they is enough, and that they are understood, beyond the acting out, and resisting. I saw them again yesterday to say goodbye, watch their talent show, and give them envelopes for the letters I had them write, which I am sending back to them in about a year. These letters are going to serve as reminders of the promises they made to themselves, that when times get tough, they can look back and say, “Hey, I remember who I am beyond this story of disappointment, hurt, or upset. I remember there is something bigger waiting for me, and that as long as I have faith and keep mining my story for gold, it won’t limit me, but empower me.” Seeing them yesterday brought tears to my eyes… there were tender hugs, a few tears, counsel, and mutual appreciation. I saw in their eyes who really got it, and will remember the impact of this week, for others I could see that there are simply more layers to soften before they let it all in. But I know the seeds were planted so they have the opportunity when and if they are ready to access this wisdom. I know that not only my mentorship, but the other incredibly talented, and heart-centered women who came together to volunteer their time, to inspire, empower, also made a huge impact. And even if I only really got through to one of those girls, and made a difference in her life, it was worth it. Thank you Michelle for listening to your call and bringing all of us together. For dedicating your time, energy, passion, expertise and huge heart to this mission. Keep it RISING girl, your work is a huge gift to all of us. Thank you! If you feel called to support Michelle in her mission to bring leadership, empowerment and transformation to young girls, please consider donating to her non-profit that makes camps like this one possible. You can find out more about her and her incredibly impactful work at: http://majorsleadership.org/ And donate directly at: http://majorsleadership.org/invest-in-her/  Dr. Michelle Majors of Majors Leadership Academy So dear Ones, I hope this encourages you to lean in, show up and say yes when you feel called...whether that be to be of service in some way, or to read a certain book, attend a workshop or retreat, or work one-on-one with someone who can help you to RISE and live your greatest life.
And I would love to hear from you and hear about the times you have said YES and it made all the difference! If you have an upcoming event you would like me to speak at, please send me a direct email to: heather@mindbodybeing.com. In Love & Gratitude, Heather Blankinship Transformation Leader & Spiritual Sherpa ...guiding you to the top |
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