Reminders

I wear these two necklaces every day.  One reminds me of where I've been and the other keeps me focused on what's important to me - what I'm passionate about. It seems kind of silly as I'm writing this and yet, I know the meaning behind them and appreciate and value that meaning.

The cross is the reminder of where I've been.  I wouldn't consider myself a religious person, but a spiritual one.  I do believe there's something out in the world bigger than me.  It's sort of a guiding force.  Something that helps me maintain my sanity when I feel it's almost gone.  Something that gives me strength when I feel that I am not going to make it or can't go on.  Something that reminds me I'm on a path and although there is not crystal ball to tell me exactly how things will go or work out - they will work out.

I bought that cross necklace when a friend of mine had been sober for six months.  I felt it was a milestone and purchased one for him and got one for myself (no, they don't match - that's a little too cheesy for my taste).  We had both grown, changed, learned a lot about ourselves, separately and together.  I didn't know at the time how important this little piece would become as I've had many days when all I need is to just touch that and almost instantly, I'm reminded - "you've made it through much and you'll make it through this too."

The other one is called a "freedom" necklace and I purchased it through Trades of Hope which is a company built by women with a dream of creating job opportunities around the world to end poverty.  Their dream was to help people to change their own circumstances in a dignified and lasting way.  They want every mother and father to be able to break the cycle of poverty - for themselves and for their children.  This particular necklace is made by women in the US who are working their way out of sex trafficking. 

• "Within the United States, there are thousands of women trafficked into the sex industry. Some of these women are US residents and some come from countries far away. They get promised jobs as actresses and dancers, only to find out that they are trapped in a vicious cycle of sexual abuse. This group is changing the cycle and helping women find their freedom again! They facilitate restoration, healing, and changing lives. This program teaches these women life skills and gives them an opportunity to create beautiful products! They are dedicated to letting these women know that they are beautiful and cherished. These beautiful ladies no longer have to feel the bonds of the sex industry, but can experience the redemptive power of forgiveness and love through this ministry!"

​You can purchase one too if you're interested by clicking here as I'm hosting a Celebration of Hope from now through the end of February and there's an amazing gift with purchase (see pic below)

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The Freedom necklace reminds me of my passion for helping others, empowering them to be all they can be and remember that we all have a place in this world, a journey to take.  It helps me to keep things in perspective, remember that I, too, have a purpose and although there may be days that I'm not sure what direction to take, I just need to take a breath and remember my "why" in this world.  That which is important to me and keeps me going and growing to be the individual I want to be.

Don't lose sight of what's important to you......

​Kelley