I had the opportunity to serve as a panelist for the Connecting the Dots to End DV Conference that took place at Abundant Grace Fellowship Church. It was hosted by the Healing Grace Counseling Services ministry of the church. I also provided the closing remarks for the program with the topic of ‘Now What’, which happens to fall in alignment with one of my signature talks. The panelists included everyone from the police department, members of the clergy, counseling and mental health services. The point of the conference was to provide information for all walks of the community, with the goal of ‘connecting the dots’ for those who may be going through abuse to see and know that options and support are available in all areas that they may encounter.
One of the biggest reasons that I was honored to participate in this event is that the focus was keeping the conversation of domestic violence going after October. That is something that’s very important to me. In a previous blog, I shared about writing an article for The Memphis Flyer entitled From Awareness to Action. In it, I shared my thoughts about the necessity of taking the information that we gain in October and using it to educate and assist victims of abuse all year long. I was also impressed with the fact that they had a special segment just for teens.
I sincerely thank Paris Ducker who asked me to take part in the conference and for everyone who embraced me and my insights.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. I am honored to share that my submission to The Memphis Flyer’s Viewpoint column was received and approved for publication. It was great to see the print publication last night, and the online version is now available. Click the title to read the article and be sure to leave a comment. Domestic Violence: From Awareness to Action
The picture is the cover of the latest edition of the Memphis Flyer.
If you are part of any form of social media, you have undoubtedly seen at least one or two memes of Kermit the Frog quoting something sarcastic, funny or informative…all while sipping his tea. For those of us who grew up watching television in the prime of The Muppet Show, we could have never foreseen our beloved Kermit become a bit of a poster child for social consciousness and etiquette. Yet, here we are. But, the lessons learned about Kermit and his tea are far more telling than those who share the memes may have ever considered.
First of all, I’m a tea drinker (never liked coffee). I’ve tried all different types; from the very expensive to the very frugal. I don’t like them all. When I come across someone looking for a particular taste, I’m able to direct them on what flavors and brands to consider. It is the same for what we do in our personal and professional lives. The truth is, everyone will not like or support what you do. I speak very candidly about domestic violence and sexual assault. That is what speaks to me. That is what I’m passionate about. However, I have friends, family and colleagues that have no interest in what I do and no desire to support it. It’s not that they don’t love or respect me. It’s just not their cause. It doesn’t move them. It’s not their cup of ‘tea’ so to speak. That doesn’t mean that I can’t drink my tea while you drink your coffee and we talk about (and maybe even collaborate) our mutual interests for the greater good of those that need us.
In the case of relationships, romantic or otherwise, I believe the same rules apply. Don’t force yourself to be with anyone that expresses they are not (or no longer) interested in you. It’s not worth the additional rejection. While you may not be that person’s cup of tea, always know that you are SOMEONE’S cup of tea. There is someone who will appreciate what your style and your brand. If we were all supposed to be the same, we would be. Embrace your uniqueness and connect with those who stroll down the same paths and grocery store aisles as you do.
I am honored to serve as Executive Director of Walking Into A New Life, Inc. Our mission is to stop domestic violence and help stabilize victims of abuse. We now host a radio show entitled Boots on the Ground. The purpose is to give a voice to lesser known individuals, businesses, agencies and organizations a platform to have their stories and missions heard, list tangible resources available and find out how the community can support their efforts. It also serves as a platform for those who are more high profiled to share how they work with those who are up and coming.
I’d love to have you follow the show, listen to past shows and share the information. There has been some awesome resources and events discussed. There’s been some amazing stories of resiliency and triumph shared. So many cities have already been represented, and I look forward to more inspiring and engaging interviews each and every week. blogtalkradio.com/walkingintoanewlife
I’m excited to facilitate this event again this year. Be part of “The Talk” on domestic violence, learn about establishing a healthy relationship with yourself and others, and how to find help for you and those you love. Bring your girlfriends, daughters and sisters! Details are as followed:
Date: October 1, 2015; Time: 5:15pm; Location: Whitehaven Public Library, 4120 Millbranch Rd, Memphis, TN 38116.
