Women Like Me Stories & Business
🎧 Introducing "Women Like Me Stories & Business" - The Inspiring Business and Story Podcast by Julie Fairhurst! 🎙️
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Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a curious mind, or simply seeking motivation and inspiration, this podcast is a treasure trove of wisdom and guidance. Gain practical tips, innovative strategies, and actionable advice that you can apply to your own life and business endeavors.
Julie Fairhurst's passion for storytelling, combined with her extensive experience in the business world, makes "Women Like Me Stories & Business" a must-listen podcast for anyone craving insight, motivation, and a newfound sense of purpose.
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Women Like Me Stories & Business
The Warrior Within - Audio Book
Through heartfelt narratives and inspirational quotes from luminaries like Maya Angelou and Frank Herbert, we celebrate the extraordinary stories that highlight the importance of community and shared experiences in fostering healing and empowerment.
Listen to deeply personal journeys, such as navigating the final days of a beloved mother while managing a pregnancy and caring for children.
Experience the raw emotions of witnessing a last breath and the bittersweet moments that accompany such profound loss.
We'll also hear about the transformative path to self-love and resilience, from overcoming weight struggles and mental health challenges to rediscovering passions and embracing self-acceptance.
These accounts underscore the significance of facing fear, embracing inner strength, and cultivating an open heart to create lasting peace and transformation.
Through tales of overcoming life-threatening surgeries, battling illnesses, and finding inner strength amidst trauma, we witness the incredible capacity of the human spirit to turn adversity into empowerment.
From surviving bullying and abuse to rising through professional and personal challenges, these stories are a testament to the power of resilience and the warrior mindset.
Embrace the present moment, shift from a victim mentality to a warrior one, and reclaim control over your life. Tune in and let these stories inspire you to awaken the warrior within.
FREE GIFT: Story Inspirational Checklist
This Story Inspiration Checklist is designed to help you uncover impactful moments. It offers a guide for pulling from your own life and turning these stories into inspiration for others. Use this checklist to reflect, write, and share your story to create meaningful change.
JULIE FAIRHURST
Success Coach, Master Persuader, Publisher, Author & Founder of the
Women Like Me Book Program
You can access Julie's digital business card here.....
JULIE FAIRHURST BUSINESS CARD
Women Like Me, community. The Warrior Within, the Lioness Within, a tribute to women's resilience and strength. The lioness will be the symbol throughout our book. When you see her, remember what she stands for and how alike we, as women, are to her. The lioness, a formidable symbol of courage and resilience in the animal kingdom, embodies the essence of a warrior. This majestic creature's strength, determination and strategic prowess enable her to overcome obstacles and thrive in the face of adversity. Much like the lioness, women possess these innate qualities, fiercely protecting and providing for their families with unwavering dedication and selflessness. Just as the lioness navigates challenges with grace, women demonstrate remarkable resilience and adaptability in their daily lives. Their keen sense of intuition, coupled with their strategic intelligence, allows them to navigate the complexities of life with ease and confidence, in both the animal kingdom and human society. The role of the lioness as a provider and protector is mirrored in the lives of women. They exhibit fierce loyalty to their communities and loved ones, serving as pillars of strength and support. Just as the lioness commands respect and admiration in her pride, women command respect and recognition for their invaluable contributions to society. They are leaders, innovators, caregivers and advocates, leaving a lasting mark on the world around them With unwavering resolve and a lioness-like spirit. Women continue to redefine notions of strength, courage and leadership. They challenge stereotypes, break barriers and pave the way for future generations, proving that strength is not solely defined by physical prowess, but also by resilience, determination and the capacity to love and protect. Just like the lioness stands as a symbol of courage in the animal kingdom, women stand as symbols of strength and resilience in our society. They are the lionesses of our world, embodying the essence of a warrior within and reminding us of all of the power of resilience, the beauty of strength and the importance of courage in the face of adversity. Each time a woman stands up for herself, she stands up for all women. Maya Angelou Disclosure.
Speaker 1:Hey there, dear reader, before you dive headfirst into the captivating stories within the Women Like Me book series, we've got a quick heads-up for you. While these tales are brimming with inspiration, resilience and heart, it's important to note that this book is not a substitute for professional medical, psychological, psychiatric or counseling advice. Yep, you heard us right. We're not here to diagnose or treat any conditions. Don't get us wrong. We're all about empowering you to embrace your inner warrior and navigate life's challenges with grace and strength.
Speaker 1:But if any of the stories here hit a little too close to home and you feel triggered or need extra support. Know that you are never alone. Reach out to a trusted friend, family member or professional who can lend a listening ear, offer a shoulder to lean on or provide expert guidance. You're never alone in this journey. There's no shame in asking for help when needed. So flip through these pages, soak up the wisdom and let these incredible women inspire you to embrace your inner strength. Just remember lean on your support network and seek the help you deserve when in doubt. Now let's embark on this adventure together with courage, compassion and a whole lot of heart.
Speaker 1:Happy reading. I must not fear. Fear is the mind killer. Fear is the little death that brings total obliteration. I will face my fear. Fear is the mind killer. Fear is the little death that brings total obliteration. I will face my fear. I will permit it to pass over me and through me and when it has gone past, I will turn the inner eye to see its path. Where the fear has gone, there will be nothing. Only I will remain, frank Herbert Introduction. Only I will remain Frank Herbert Introduction.
Speaker 1:Welcome to the Warrior Within Volume 8 of the Women Like Me Community Book Series. In this empowering collection, women from all walks of life come together to share their inner warrior stories of triumph, resilience and self-discovery. These courageous women open up about their journeys of overcoming struggles, loving others, caring for others and ultimately learning to love themselves. Within these pages, you'll find narratives that resonate with the universal experiences of strength and vulnerability, courage and fear, and hope and despair. Each story is a testament to the amazing spirit that lies within every woman, waiting to be unleashed in the face of adversity. These stories are filled with moments of vulnerability, courage and self-love. Each woman's story is unique, but they all share a common theme of resilience and strength. They have faced adversity head-on and have come out the other side with newfound wisdom and perspective. These women are warriors who have fought hard for what they believe in and who have ultimately learned to embrace their inner strength. These pages are a treasure trove of powerful stories that echo the common experiences shared by women from all walks of life. They offer a glimpse into women's remarkable strength, courage and resilience, waiting to be unfurled and unleashed in the face of adversity. As each story unfolds, it becomes evident that the seeds of hope and the possibility of redemption lie beneath the layers of vulnerability. Our collective belief is that by sharing our stories we heal ourselves and inspire and uplift others who may be walking a similar path. Through our vulnerability we find strength, through our shared experiences we find connections and through our resilience we find the warrior within. We invite you to journey alongside these remarkable women as they bravely share their stories of transformation and empowerment. May their words serve as a guiding light for anyone seeking solace, inspiration or simply a reminder of the incredible power that resides within each and every one of us. Thank you for joining us on this journey of courage, compassion and self-discovery. May we all tap into the warrior within and emerge stronger, more resilient and more compassionate beings. Julie Firehurst, founder of Women.
Speaker 1:Like Me Yesterday I was clever, so I wanted to change the world. Today I am wise, so I am changing myself. Rumi Anne-Marie Harris, the most valuable possession you can own is an open heart. The most powerful weapon you can be is an instrument of peace. Carlos Santana, I looked over the edge of the cliff.
Speaker 1:It was a steep drop-off and a very long plummet to the bottom of the basin. I could end all of this suffering right now, I thought. With tears streaming down my face, I have sat on this ledge many times, watching the sunset over the mountains and the waves of the ocean crashing below me. This was usually a place where I came to find peace and connect with nature, but today was different. The overwhelm of everything I've experienced in my life became too heavy of a burden to carry anymore. I felt so alone, a broken shell of a human, and in that moment I had lost all hope.
Speaker 1:Over the past ten years of my life, I had survived a break-in and sexual assault from the intruder, years of horrific domestic violence, psychological abuse and infidelity from intimate partner relationships, a life-altering brain injury that left me with multiple disabilities and chronic symptoms. I was abandoned and divorced in my time of need during the recovery and treatment. Unemployability because of my ongoing health issues, a global pandemic, isolation and depression. 29 months of bouncing around in multiple insecure housing situations, loss of close friendships and support network, and now facing being completely unhoused and living in my car. I felt completely broken and alone. So much pain and trauma. I couldn't bear it any longer. What did I have left to live for? Just then, my dog nudged under my arm and snuggled his head into my chest, gazing his eyes up at me, and my heart broke. I could not leave this precious being alone here. I had to keep going because of him. Looking back, I know that sweet, precious boy saved me with his love, but he also reminded me that I have a purpose, even if it was just caring for him. I didn't know what to do next, but I knew that I just had to trust that this was the universe's divine plan for me and that there was a reason and purpose that I've survived so much in this life. I am here for something greater than I could understand at that moment. I took some time to snuggle my gentle, loving boy and pour all of my love into him, because he gave me a reason to stay.
Speaker 1:I spend a lot of time reflecting on what I have endured in my life over the coming days and weeks, but also on the strength, resilience and belief in myself to forge onward. Each time I go through one of those traumas, I held the capacity to adapt, rise up, take another step and move forward through every one of those seemingly unbearable situations. What people don't understand about complex post-traumatic stress and depression is how deeply it hurts, until all that you feel is a scary hollowness. Your mind fills with dark thoughts like you're worthless and then there's no hope. It simply hurts too much. I actively had to make the choice to respect my suffering and allow it to soften me instead of making me hard, bitter, fearful or drive me to end my precious life. The only way out is through, and that meant going to the depths of pain and fear and allowing myself to feel it all so that I could purge and release it from my life. I've decided that my warrior's path is a gentle one. It's an ongoing commitment to myself to cultivate peace, and it's come as the result of retraining my mind to process life as it is Rather than as I think it should be. I must embrace pain and burn it as fuel for my journey.
Speaker 1:I got back to my yoga, meditation and spiritual practices of deep inner listening and honoring. The pain, trauma and fear allowed me to walk with courage into the storm. I still have fear, but it no longer has me. I used to be ashamed of who I was and all that I've experienced, but when I invited shame into my heart and allowed myself to feel and move through it now I can just let it burn. I allowed the fire to reignite within me and at the core of my sorrow and heartbreak is where I truly learned how to love.
Speaker 1:Through cultivating self-awareness, I uncovered deep vulnerability, found my authentic self, the love that resides within my heart, and a whole other level of empathy that I never knew I was capable of. It feels like an empathy for all humanity, all beings and my own deep, venerable humanity, the pain and suffering of others and for my own beautiful imperfections. I remind myself that my spirit is mightier than anything. I remind myself that my spirit is mightier than anything. I belong here. I am worthy of experiencing joy and peace and I embrace life.
Speaker 1:When I honored that, I lived for most of my life in a state of overcoming. I was able to slow down and realize that I had made it out. I've created a healthier, safer reality for myself, even though sometimes I have great difficulty recognizing and integrating the fact that I am no longer back there or at risk. The key is to surrender to the power of my heart, the peaceful warrior within that reminds me to slow down, release the thought patterns of overcoming and feel the alchemy of turning my pain into purpose, breathing deeply and knowing that the battle is over. Now it's time to feel peace. I found an inner strength to fight for myself. It was clear that nobody else would. Tamina Durrani, tammy Trites. A mother's arms are more comforting than anyone else's. Princess Diana, I found my inner warrior while looking after my mother on her cancer journey. I've always been a huge advocate for her, caring for her and taking her anywhere she wanted to go.
Speaker 1:Well, this all started 13 years ago. I had complained to the doctors that she had COPD or something else wrong with her. I had to push them hard to find out what was wrong with my mother. We finally got a doctor to agree with me that something was wrong. They call us for an update and to come into the office. I remember this day like it was today. The doctor said I'm sorry to tell you, barbara, but you have stage 4 lung cancer. Said I'm sorry to tell you, barbara, but you have stage 4 lung cancer. We both sank deeply into those office chairs. I had known something was wrong, but never in my wildest dreams did I think it would be cancer.
Speaker 1:My question to the doctor was how does she go from not having anything wrong from all the other tests to stage 4 lung cancer? My mother's one question was to stage 4 lung cancer. My mother's one question was should I quit smoking? He said it's way past that and if you want to smoke, then smoke and live your last years enjoying life. The next question I asked was how long does she have? The answer was two years at most. When we finally got our shit together, we hugged each other beyond the biggest hug I ever received from her. Tears run down our cheeks as our heads are pressed together. Mama, I will take care of you forever and always.
Speaker 1:I was finally getting it together so I would be able to drive. I decided to bring her home with me to tell my kids and family the sad news. To bring her home with me to tell my kids and family the sad news. We decided to take about a week to let it sink in. Then the hard part is about to happen. I discussed with my sister about taking mom to Vegas. We decided to go, even with mom being sick. We didn't know how much time we would have left with her. We went and had a blast and she was in the best spirits. Then I planned to have one last Christmas get-together with all of my mother's family, kids and grandbabies. There was a total of sixty-one of us there. I have stamped the smile on her face the whole night.
Speaker 1:In my memory, now is the real test doing radiation. My mom was always the one to try and make jokes to cover her fear. She said she was finally getting a tattoo. I found out I was pregnant with my fifth baby. During this time, my mom was super, super excited for this baby. Now I am trying to juggle all of my four children's lives, plus the pregnancy and cancer appointments. It was really hard, but I was pushing through like nothing was wrong. I had to call ambulances all the time. That was the hardest, because I knew soon enough she was not going to come home. Now was the time that she was in the hospital, not coming home, and I was trying my best every day.
Speaker 1:I went to see her on July 10, 2012. As I pulled into the underground parking and stepped out of the car, my water broke. Never had this happened before. I was scared. The baby wasn't due until August 28. Instead of dropping by her room, I went straight to the maternity ward. I didn't even get onto the bed. And well, they confirmed that I was going to have my baby. My little 6.3 pound, 6-week-old baby was born on July 13.
Speaker 1:During my stay in the hospital. I wasn't able to be with my mom as she was sick with an infection. My sister brought her to my room. I was so disappointed that mom wasn't allowed to touch or kiss the baby. There was talk now of mom going into palliative care.
Speaker 1:I finally got released from the hospital on July 16 and took my older children to see her On the 18th. I decided I was taking the baby there to see her. She was in great spirits when we spoke on the phone. When I got there with all the kids I took the baby right up to her where she was able to kiss her. Just then the nurse came in and said they needed to change her. I heard the nurse calling her name repeatedly as I looked into the room. It was terrifying. She was asking me for air as she couldn't breathe. This is one of those situations that will be burned in my memory for life.
Speaker 1:When they finally let me back into the room, it was obvious this was my mother's final days. I had to call my sister. I was crying and told her she needed to come to the hospital. My sister said what do you mean? She turned for the worst. I just left there when she came back to the hospital we just knew mom wasn't going to make it a day or two. Mom's brother and sister and her nephew children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren all came. I had to leave the hospital as I just had a baby, but my sister and one of my older children stayed with her for the night. In the morning I stopped to get coffee for us before heading to the hospital. I walked into the room and had just enough time to put the coffee down and remove my coat. As we stood over her she took her last breath. Then she was gone. We all knew she had been waiting for me to get there.
Speaker 1:My mom and I have always had a close connection. It was strong. I was her youngest, the baby of the family. She may not have been the best mom. She, like all of us, had her problems, but I know she tried all of her life to be there for her children. Life has been hard, to say the least. I miss her so much every day. It's only been twelve years since you left, but, mama, I love you. I am not pretty. I am not beautiful. I am as radiant as the sun. Suzanne Collins, lois A Unger you become what you believe Oprah. This is my story. I saw an open call to a new life.
Speaker 1:Just a poor girl chasing the fashion runway, sitting alone at the small farmhouse kitchen table. I felt exhausted as a ten-year-old. I had just arrived home from school at 4.15 pm and I was the last drop-off. I had not packed much lunch, so I was famished. Mom had just baked bread and it smelled divine. I anticipate my snack as I walk to the cupboard and reach for the peanut butter. Dipping my knife into the jar of creamy peanut butter, I would lick it off before going for another. I often double-dipped it with peanut butter and syrup or jam, which meant I had to be quick as it may drip. I enjoyed a few of these on their own before slicing fresh bread and slathering it with my layers of goodness. This became a daily habit.
Speaker 1:I was the youngest and generally didn't cause too much trouble, so mom would just let me be. My sister and I would wait for the school bus at the end of the driveway on a gravel road and we would sing while waiting. Neighbors lived just far enough apart that they may not have heard us, but we were fine if it echoed. We were not bogged down with the internet and social media. In fact, power was installed when I was thirteen and we bought our first TV. My mom was excited as she had just bought the biggest freezer from the local town store. Was excited, as she had just bought the biggest freezer from the local town store. Every Saturday night I watched Hockey Night in Canada and I would tell my brother the score after he was home from his date. My dad and I spent many hours in the field working with hay. He would play the harmonica or accordion in the evenings and I would sing along. The two of us also shared several boxes of maraschino cherry chocolates over the holidays.
Speaker 1:Food became my best friend, peanut butter being my favorite. I weighed more than the other kids but was told I was healthy. For many years my weight fluctuated and finally reached its highest point. Even though I was tall, I was clearly very overweight, no matter my body size. I always had a glimmer that there was more, more I could do for myself and hope to inspire others. I still had aspirations. At the rate I was overeating. I knew my mental health was affected too. Sometimes I would like to stay home alone, not chat with anyone or go out. Food gave me this love and comfort that nothing else could. Some days my dreams were buried, as my mind was in a thick fog, so I could not see that far.
Speaker 1:I was now having mental and physical health issues. I had appointments with various counselors and therapists, but it seemed I was not in a place to change myself. I was finding it harder to move around or walk getting in and out of the car, as I had to order a seat belt extension. No baths, only showers, and all this was extremely tiresome, as my mind and body did not agree. I attended my yearly check-up and my doctor advised me about some health issues and how serious it was. I still had a chance of a fulfilling life, with a few adjustments.
Speaker 1:On the way home, I felt a shift. I did not want to die. I had a lot of life in me waiting to get out. I was excited. Of course. I dived in with all my power and found various modalities that worked for me. That's it. I had to find what worked just for me. I started to learn about breathwork, mindset, visualization and writing. Food was suddenly used as fuel for my body and mind. I didn't need excess. Nutrition tasted good. I found so many options that brought me joy—photography, writing, travel, poetry, music, dance, voice-over, acting and theater. I was coming alive. I was smiling, I felt happy in my heart, I was taking care of myself and becoming healthier. My mind and body came into alignment.
Speaker 1:I came upon an ad that was asking for a model open call. I had done some acting and loved the stage. I read and researched about runways, getting published print and commercials Many years ago. Modeling was on my mind, and theater and modeling give you a chance to be someone else. I attended the event on a September Sunday, chilly afternoon. I did have a few doubts, as now I would be considered a mature or classique model. Two lovely people dressed in black a model's favorite color were waiting at a small picnic table. I was thrilled to be welcomed at how excited they were to see me. They asked me a few questions, clicked a selfie and I was in.
Speaker 1:I'm a model. I'm shouting and crying on my way home. My life has just been revamped and my body size doesn't matter. They assured me there was room for everyone, and that included me. I've had so many wonderful opportunities, like brand clothing and product photo shoots, music videos, commercials, runway-wearing, local boutiques and fundraising galas. I'm rocking this senior lifestyle. There is still so much more and with my positive vibes, the universe is sure to deliver. I'm working every day on becoming a better. Fabulous Cowards shrink from challenges. Weaklings flee from them, but warriors wink at them. Weaklings flee from them, but warriors wink at them. Mat Shona Dlaweo, roxanne Neistis Ask, believe, receive. I have learned that it is your faith that gets you through the dark times to find your way back to the light. Roxy Neistis, on December 4th of 2019, I was having so much pain in my lower abdomen and in my back.
Speaker 1:I went to the hospital thinking I had a very bad bladder infection. They did blood work and scans on me. A gyno surgeon came rushing into my room and said that I had a 13 cm cyst on my left ovary, the size of an orange, and that I needed emergency surgery. I was in shock and began to call my family to let them know that I was being prepped for surgery. Within the hour, I went into a 3.5-hour surgery. I had three small incisions.
Speaker 1:I woke up in ICU where I was told I should start feeling better and then they would release me. However, two days later, it was quite the opposite. I had a very high fever and was in excruciating pain and I began to vomit non-stop. So back into the CT scan. They sent me an ultrasound and more blood work. Then two more surgeons walked into my room and I remember my boyfriend and me sitting there in shock as they told me that the surgeon who removed the cyst had accidentally cut my bowel and that I was septic. They explained that I was facing death if I did not immediately go into surgery where the gastro-surgery would attempt to repair my bowel. I didn't really have a choice. I had to have the surgery. I remember immediately thinking of my three small grandchildren and my daughter who was pregnant with her first child. I broke down and thought to myself they are going to grow up without me and I will not be there to watch them grow. I was devastated, to say the least, and so back into immediate 5.5-hour surgery I went.
Speaker 1:This surgery literally took me out. I remember being in the recovery room and the nurses and doctors grabbing my arms and yelling my name. The amount of instant pain was so overwhelming. The surgeon walked in and told me they had lost me twice while operating, where I had to be revived. He also told me that the location of the cut bowel forced them to give me an ostomy bag and I had a drain that would extract all toxic matter inside me. They also had to give me a central line, for that goes straight to the heart due to my veins collapsing. I was in critical condition and back into ICU.
Speaker 1:The pain was unbearable at times and the shock of having an ostomy bag in drain was very hard to deal with. I remember my mom and dad coming and crying over me, praying out loud for God to heal me. That was hard. I remember seeing my kids every day and I would try so hard to be strong for them and cry, feeling defeated by any chance of being alone. Joey, my boyfriend and my partner, showed me so much love and support every single day. He was the one to clean my ostomy and change my dressings. He would hold me and encourage me every day.
Speaker 1:I remember, prior to all of this, being so excited about planning my daughter's gender reveal. I missed it. They video called me and Joey and I cried as we found out we were to be expecting my first grandson in January 2020. Again, I was so divested at the thought that I would not be there to see my grandson grow. Christmas was coming up soon. So I remember forcing myself to get up, walk and adjust to this new me. I was so happy when the surgeon told me that he was giving me a four-hour pass on Christmas Day to go home. It had been twenty-one days since I had been home.
Speaker 1:I remember my kids, grandkids in home. I remember my kids, grandkids and late dad all being there. When I stepped into my house I just broke down. It was so hard because I honestly didn't know if I would see my home again On this day. My Joey sat me on the chair at the table and he got down on one knee and proposed After twenty years and seeing how he cared for me through this time, I said yes. I remember my daddy being so happy he got to see this. It was hard having to leave my family and home that day and go back to the hospital. I remember crying uncontrollably that night to the point where they had to give me an ativan to calm me down. I began to feel very angry at this whole situation and began to question God on what I had done so wrong in my life that this happened to me.
Speaker 1:On December 30, the surgeon told me I could go home, on the condition that home care would come every day to clean the drain and ostomy. I was so relieved, but it was short-lived. January 15, I was admitted back into the hospital due to pain and infection. January 20, I was notified once again that I was septic and going down. They prepped me to be airlifted to Saskatoon. I was in so much pain and had a severe fever. I remember the two EMTs who rode with me talking and radioing that they were losing me and administered fentanyl I lost consciousness.
Speaker 1:I remember getting to university hospital where they began to prep me for immediate surgery. Once again I was so overwhelmed when the nurse came and told me that I had to be strong and fight through because my daughter was in labor. Again my world came crashing down. So that was another six-hour surgery where they repaired the bowel and ostomy and added an additional drain. I was heartbroken waking up and being told my daughter had my first grandson the very next day, but thankful he was a healthy boy. I always feel so thankful I got sent there. I know they saved my life.
Speaker 1:I spent the next three weeks there in ICU. My parents, joey, sisters, kids and grandkids all travel 3.5 hours to be with me and support me. I honestly wouldn't have made it through without them. I remember one night at the hospital and being in that room and thinking I was done. I couldn't do it anymore. Mentally I was shutting down. I was still on continuous pain and nausea medication.
Speaker 1:It was on that night that I found out what true faith is. I was broken. I sat on the hospital bed and I cried out for strength, understanding and acceptance. It was then that I realized I had to fight. I had to heal and get through this for myself. I had been through way too much in my life for this to defeat me. Everything changed for me that night Mentally, emotionally, spiritually and, I do believe, physically. I began to fight to walk, I fought to shower. I fought to eat. I fought to live.
Speaker 1:Six months later I got the ostomy removed and the drains were taken out. To date I have had five corrective surgeries and am currently awaiting another. I am told it will be the last time they will have to do surgery on me. I can now laugh with my family and say my stomach looks like a train track. Cuts and scars are straight down and everywhere. But I am thankful. I am thankful I open my eyes every morning and am not in pain. I am thankful I am at home. I am thankful that I am able to enjoy my now six grandchildren. I no longer ask why I accept and am simply thankful for my life. My faith got me through. My faith brought me strength. I found my warrior spirit within. I am proud to say I am doing something they told me I would never do again. I am fully employed, working, mobile and living life to the fullest. I did that. I am thankful for this life and if there is one thing I want my kids and grandkids to know is that, no matter what happens, you have to fight for the life that you want, and you can do it. When one door of happiness closes, another opens, but often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one which has been opened for us. Helen Keller, loretta Libertreton you have to believe in yourself when no one else does. Serena Williams I found myself alone and scared, not having any clue how I was going to survive.
Speaker 1:I ended a toxic relationship. I had bills and debt and very minimal money coming in. I knew I needed to do something, but had no idea what I was going to do. I had very little belief in myself. It had been shattered in the relationship. A few days went by and a friend called and suggested I apply for a job where she worked. I got the job and moved from the house I couldn't afford into something I could afford. Moved from the house I couldn't afford into something I could afford. My confidence was slowly building back up. On the outside, I always presented myself as a confident woman, but on the inside I was terrified.
Speaker 1:I raised five kids on my own and owned two businesses, but living alone was scarier than anything I had ever done. I was now finally creating a life I wanted, just for me. I stuck with the job for two years and decided I had ever done. I was now finally creating a life I wanted, just for me. I stuck with the job for two years and decided I needed something better. I got my commercial driver's license and took a job in the film industry, working in the transport division. I still had my small business making memory bears and other items. I had been doing this since 2015. It was something I enjoyed but didn't feel confident about. I finally built my confidence with that as well. I expanded my business and have been doing quite well with it.
Speaker 1:Making the memory bears bring me so much joy. I feel such a connection with the people I meet. Grief brings us together and I am able to bring a piece of happiness to their sad time. I have registered to take a grief doula course. I feel like this is my calling. Life is coming together for me. It's been three years since my separation. I have finally found myself again. The fun-loving, energetic person I used to be is back. I no longer worry about what people will think of me. Dig deeper within the confines of your inner warrior. I guarantee you haven't yet seen the real you who is ridiculously fearless and outrageously unstoppable Hiral Nagda. Susan McCormack Surviving and Smiling. Susan McCormack. It is hard to decide where to start, as I have always been in survival mode.
Speaker 1:I got married very young, at 19, and thought marriage and having children was what we should do. My dreams were shattered very early when the abuse started. I had my first child in 1992, and I was in bliss. I never thought I could love someone as much as I loved this child. The abuse escalated to the point of knives and police being called, so we divorced. Three years later I found myself remarrying him again. The abuse started once again when I was eight months pregnant with my second child. I couldn't believe I had done this to myself again. I always tried to figure out what I was doing to make him so mad.
Speaker 1:I woke up one day and went to Al-Anon Halfway through the meeting. I had to leave as my husband went after my oldest child. I had to leave as my husband went after my oldest child. The next morning I changed the locks and we divorced. Why do we put up with so much but not let our loved ones go through half as much? I thought my heart was shattered being divorced so young. I then got cervical cancer. It spread and I had to get my ovary taken out. It was seven operations later, but I was still surviving and my story, or life as we know it, continues. Dignity will only happen when you realize that having someone in your life Doesn't validate your worth. Shannon L Alder, tracy Dion To love yourself right now, just as you are, is to give yourself heaven. Don't wait until you die. If you wait, you die now. If you love, you live now. Alan Cohen Every day we wake up, we begin fighting our inner thoughts.
Speaker 1:The real struggle is managing and fighting off our thoughts and emotions damaging to our inner soul. At some point in life we will be scarred by the actions of others that inflict pain on us. Then the question truly becomes how can the wound be healed, to support getting back up? Each wound we embrace holds a place in our hearts. A warrior will suit up again, but this time with more knowledge and better equipment.
Speaker 1:In life, we fight a constant battle inside our heads, questioning our choices and belief systems, doubting our own abilities, loving the right and yes the wrong people, and embracing the light and darkness within us. Self-love and self-healing hold the key to a true warrior's heart. Once we face our deepest emotions and fears, we begin to strengthen our own armor. The warrior sees pain as a lesson rather than a failure. The warrior fights for what they believe to be true and righteous. If you ask me what armor and strengths I carry when facing battles, I come bearing stronger boundaries Love, kindness, compassion, empathy, sympathy, hope, forgiveness, gratitude and grace for myself and others.
Speaker 1:How do you find your inner strength? What armor will you suit up with to strengthen yourself and heal the wounds of life? Strengthen yourself for battle by acquiring these skills the courage to face the journey ahead and embrace life challenges while visualizing all possible outcomes. Be prepared and ready for fear to enter and uncertainties to seep in All, while not allowing your emotions to override you. Stand up, be tall, be persistent and keep going. Be resilient and have faith in yourself. This requires time for self-reflection, remember to stay humble and kind and love everything you have.
Speaker 1:I believe the strongest warriors have journeyed and suffered in life along the way, but keep going with integrity and grace. The warrior within each one of us stands more robust and resilient than ever before. We emerge victorious through silent battles, tears and lessons learned in the depths of despair, not because the battles have ceased, but because we've transformed them into stepping stones towards our growth. We learn to heal by masking and nurturing the wounds with forgiveness and gratitude, allowing them to become sources of strength rather than scars of weakness. The end of one battle marks the beginning of another, yet we gain a deeper understanding of our true essence with each fight. We come to realize that the most formidable opponent we face is often ourselves, and the greatest victory is in conquering our doubts and fears. As we move forward, carry with you the wisdom that each challenge is an opportunity for growth, each setback a chance for a comeback and every moment an invitation to embrace life with all its imperfections. Don't give up. Don't give in. Wake up, release your warrior and tell your demons not today, let's dance, moother fuckers. Keep fighting the good fight. Helen Edwards, heather Scott, life is too short to spend another day at war with yourself.
Speaker 1:Rita Gatturi, am I a survivor or a warrior? Experiencing trauma is different for everyone, and I begin by saying these are based on my true life experiences. There are many distinct types of traumas and I have experienced several of them Bullying, mental, emotional, psychological, physical including sexual and life-threatening, most of which were at the hands of people I knew in my past, people I considered close friends and others I was in a relationship with. Waking to a stranger standing over me in my bed at eight years of age is not more or less traumatizing than being bullied in school at nine years old. Having someone that you helped advocate for in high school when he was being bullied later in life come back into your life to sexually assault you, being sexually assaulted by your boss, or facing psychological abuse at the hands of your husband when he threatens suicide. To keep me in line, it is all relative to the time of the traumatic experience.
Speaker 1:When I say life-threatening, examples are having one of my partners in life pull a gun on me. Years later in another relationship, he would strangle me until I nearly passed out and repeated for his sexual pleasure. One thing these two had in common was when the situations did get life threatening, I had no problem getting out of the circumstance or situation. When number one pulled a gun while we were in a heated argument, I picked up the phone and called 911. He took a seat with the gun in hand, hanging between his legs, and waited for the police. I went and sat on the front porch and waited for them to arrive. It could have gone so horribly wrong. I was safely removed from the house. My children were not home. The next day the police came back with me. While I got some of our belongings out of the house, I arranged to have my children stay overnight at their daycare and I slept in my car. I found an apartment and never looked back.
Speaker 1:When my second partner suddenly started to get paranoid, untrusting was the total opposite of what I had experienced with him in the previous three years. Again, it seemed to happen overnight. This time it took a bit longer to get out. It seemed to happen overnight. This time it took a bit longer to get out. I am blessed to have survived the sexual and physical abuse that came on fast and furious. Here I was once again loading my car with whatever I could fit in it and never turning back. As it turned out, it was drugs that caused the abrupt change. How incredibly sad. Note my kids were out of the house and on their own by this time, thank goodness.
Speaker 1:Having said that, neither relationship started out that way. In both examples above, the relationships were amazing. Until they were not, it was like a light switch. One minute we were in a relationship with a bright future, open communication, mutual respect and independence without fear of retribution or retaliation. The aforementioned went on for years. So when I say the next minute the total opposite of our relationship I mean just that I went to bed one night in a blissful relationship and woke up fearing for my life. There are too many more stories that need not be told. It's been over 20 years since experiencing the kind of abuse that you are reading about here today.
Speaker 1:The impact that trauma had on me led me to a journey of healing and recovery, pivotal moment or realization that sparked the transformation from survivor to warrior. I knew a man that would be the shift in my mindset. This man's picture should be next to the definition of BFF A man who showed me that I was worth it, shifting my mindset by reclaiming my power, by finding my inner strength and embracing resilience. I take proactive steps to confront challenges and advocate for myself and others. I often refer to how I may perceive someone's abuse of power over me as being in an abusive marriage and having to walk on eggshells. This will always be a work in progress, as I keep at arm's length between me and any intimate relationship. I choose me and again I ask am I a survivor or a warrior? I say a little of both. I end by saying love yourself, you are worth it. From my heart to your heart. If you're reading this, congratulations, you're alive. If that's not something to smile about, then I don't know what is. Chad Sugg, nicole Carpenter Holding on is believing that there's only a past?
Speaker 1:Letting go is knowing that there's a future? Daphne, rose Kingma how do you start a story that isn't over? Where do you begin to lift the rubble of a shattered life? Each piece put together with so much love exploded in a final blow, like it never mattered the words we don't have nice things ring in your ears as the falling bricks shatter your bones. We started fast, like any good love story does, both in relationships, both seemingly unhappy, wanting more from life, wanting more from a partner. We saw each other every day in the office and we bonded. How was I to know this was his pattern.
Speaker 1:We left our partners soon after and began to build a life together. I was on a high thinking. I had everything I ever wanted A partner who shared my dreams, a partner who adored me. But I missed the signs. We bought the house, we had the wedding, we rode the highs and struggled through the lows, but through the lows, my love for him still cracked me open. I felt it whenever we were close. It radiated from my chest like a beacon. I loved hard, as I always do. I feel deeply and I felt into every moment. This is all I will ever need. I can still feel that thought, the strength in it, carving itself deep into my bones as we laughed and shoveled our way to a backyard snowfort, the childlike wonder in his eyes, the knowledge that I was right, where I was meant to be. I want to bother you forever, he says, with a smile and a touch that will forever be burned into my skin, burning like the sight of the bruises left on my arms, Burning like the words used to try and break me. My best friend, my love, turned into a monster by a book bound in leather.
Speaker 1:Five years in, and I could feel him shifting. Nothing I did was good enough now. I couldn't do the dishes to his standards and love him the way he wanted. I struggled to keep my head above water, day after day, being pulled under by the weight of one word church. He found his way to a God that I don't believe in. I tried to let it flow as though it was a phase, but deep down I knew it would lead to our end. I felt it as deeply as I felt my love for him. He was never one to do things halfway, so he dove in headfirst.
Speaker 1:I was scared of losing the man I loved, scared of seeing the beautiful life we built torn to shreds through judgment. I was right to be afraid. He needed me to dive with him, and I couldn't. I wouldn't. If we ever have a child, I will tell them their mother is going to hell. He screamed as he pinned me to the floor, hand raised, prepared to slap me across the face. Pinned me to the floor, hand raised, prepared to slap me across the face. Anger, distrust, rage a terrifying power I had never seen in him before, floating in his eyes. I walked out the next day hoping against all hope that this would shake him and bring him back to me, naively believing that our love was stronger than his rage.
Speaker 1:The words got worse, the despair in my chest. Like a gaping wound I was being cracked open again, but this time it wouldn't glow, it would empty me completely. Every fight I looked for my escape route. Every argument, my body would quake in fear of what would come next. When would he go too far and destroy it all? I still wonder why I waited so long, waiting for a blow that would end all of my love, end all of my trust, or waiting for a change that would never come. Slowly, then, almost all at once, I became a shell of myself in my own home. My light grew dimmer and dimmer still. I know I needed him. I needed him to love me again, to make me belong, to take me in his arms, wipe away my tears and see the pain in my eyes.
Speaker 1:I lost my job the day after. He left bruises on my arm. I had been looking for an apartment to rent and my final escape route was stolen, so I stayed, hoping for support through a scary transition. A year later I got my dream job, working at the environmental not-for-profit where we said I do. I received no congratulations or words of encouragement. I was alone in my happiness and still the words.
Speaker 1:The rage got worse. Are you stupid? He screamed at me, fist raised in the air as he came towards me. You are such a bitch, cutting like a knife to my skin. I was in shock, shaking uncontrollably in front of the kitchen sink. I fully expected to be dealt a black eye that evening, or worse. He lost me completely that night. I lost pieces of myself too, all because I was about to put flavored coffee in the coffee maker Not long after the house would go up for sale. I found silence and peace in yoga and meditation until one morning. I looked over at the phone he had forgotten to take to work with him and I knew Text messages exclaiming I wish I was inside of you this morning. I can still smell you on my skin. I am getting out and I cannot wait to have you wrapped up in my lap in my new home.
Speaker 1:The affair hit me like a thousand-pound brick to my chest. The affair hit me like a thousand-pound brick to my chest. She was married, she had a child, they worked together and we shared the same first name. The hell I was told I was destined for was in my house, etched in the details of the pictures I had framed on our walls, laced in his words when you find God, come back to me. I will always leave the light on for you like a poison, giving me the slap that he had intended so long ago with his good morning kisses he still offered me as he crept out of the bed we still shared to go and kiss her.
Speaker 1:I moved to the basement that day, a basement that was once our refuge when we renovated our home. I recently realized that I left a piece of myself in that basement bedroom, in the far, dark corner of that house, where I quietly crept like a disease in my own home after the most exciting night of my new career. I left my excitement in that dark corner that night when I could not come home and jump into the arms of my love, like a child on a sugar, high to share in my success. While he slept comfortably in the bedroom we once shared directly above me, while I wept and shut out the lights on my childlike joy, all the messy magic I used to see every day began to seep out of me. I was dark, I was lonely and I needed my final escape. I moved out the next weekend.
Speaker 1:I am still cleaning the rubble for nearly a year now. Some bricks I toss, some I place lovingly back together as I rebuild. The process isn't easy and I don't have a path in front of me anymore, but I will create one when the time is right. Will I trust again? I hope so. Will I love again? Absolutely? But will I ever be the same? Never. The bruises he left on my body may have faded, but the scars on my heart will remain, reminding me of my strength, of my courage, of the magic I am learning to see in the world again through fresh eyes. It's messy and the pain is difficult, but the growth is powerful. You can be a warrior and be full of grace and class. Drew Barrymore, sabrina Lambert you can't stop the waves, but you can learn to surf. John Kabat-Zinn.
Speaker 1:I am an emotional being and was lucky to grow up in a family where it was okay to express my emotions and be self-aware. It was not unknown to see my dad cry once in a while, both for sadness and for joy. Cultural middle-class norms certainly allowed and expected us girls to be more emotional than our brothers in the 1960s, but roles were changing in the 70s and 80s and as an adult woman I could now choose from many more occupations out in the world. I chose to work in the international airline customer service industry and then became first acquainted with my warrior. My challenges at work often had to do with the expectations of my male supervisors that being emotional was not professional. Often in private discussions with them, my passion for the work and getting the service for the customer would raise my tears, sometimes in frustration and sometimes in gratitude. My supervisors could have understood that I trusted them enough to express emotion in front of them. However, they just reacted with uncomfortable squirms that a woman was crying in their office and they didn't know what to do. One even told me that I could not become a manager being so emotional. Oops, I did become a manager with the resilience and commitment of my warrior, and I believe that my empathy and compassion were my best skills in managing my team.
Speaker 1:My next glimmer of my warrior was when I divorced my first husband. We mutually agreed to part at my 31st birthday dinner. Later, as we were dividing up our household and reviewing memories together, he became a blubbering mess and could not make any decisions, so I sent him away and completed the task on my own. It was during this time that I was starting to have serious abdominal pain. Within months I was in hospital, diagnosed with Crohn's disease. It definitely was my warrior that helped me clear out the furniture and sell the house. She even gave me the courage to enlist a neighbor boy's help to hold a hose to dump the waterbed into the garden. I know waterbeds were a cool thing in the 80s.
Speaker 1:Miss Warrior was with me in the hospital preparing me for surgery, suppressing the fear of the unknown illness I was suffering, reaffirming to my thoughts that I was strong and would be okay. She was there too every time a parade of interns came through to discuss my interesting medical case. My gown was frequently lifted to view the stitches and the healing. Miss Warrior was there to replace my modesty and embarrassment with my pride of survival and quick healing. A few years later, having found my life partner and miraculously became pregnant, I found myself again in a medical crisis. During delivery, my daughter seemed uninterested in being born, yet my blood pressure was telling the doctors it was time this information was given to my husband and my dad, but not to me, because the doctors did not want to create a reason to raise my blood pressure further. When my husband and father came to chat that it was time to decide about a c-section, my warrior knew that there was something going on and was frustrated, not knowing what it was. The c-section went ahead smoothly and we welcomed our beautiful daughter, who received the nickname Peanut as soon as we saw her swaddled up, with only her face peeking out. During my post-delivery doctor's visit, my warrior supported me to express strong words to my doctor that never again would she withhold information from me that was pertinent to my life. I told her that just because I am emotional, that does not mean that I am irrational. I make better decisions. Fully informed Work was fulfilling, but outside forces can create pandemonium, and that is what happened to the airline industry in September 2001.
Speaker 1:With such catastrophic loss of life, we were not sure things would recover. Many managers lost their jobs. Those of us who were lucky to remain did double and triple duty with frozen salaries, and some, like me, got our pay cut. My warrior went into action and I lobbied for a meeting with HR as my pay cut was not following the guidelines of our job realignments. The meeting did not go well. Hr kept calling my pay cut a demotion, when my paperwork said I was to be held at my existing pay level. Hr did not care for the distinction. I was the sole breadwinner of my family. At the time. Budgets would be tighter. I had just bought a new car two months earlier and investigated returning it. However, with my warrior in my corner, we decided that forward was the best course of action. I knew my work very well and was optimistic that the industry would return, so I stayed instead of choosing to start over. It was my warrior who allowed me to see that I always have choices and can decide which is best for me in each instance.
Speaker 1:Now retired and recovered from another Crohn's surgery, I have discovered, through healing with mindfulness and meditation, that my Miss Warrior is really only one part of my true self. She is the part that helps me face the life challenges that will always exist and present choices and solutions that move me forward. By learning mindfulness and meditation, I finally had my first glimpse of my essence, my spark being. Part of her personality is Miss Warrior, and the other part, one am only just learning about. My spark being, is all-accepting, self-compassionate and complete equanimity. I have access to her whenever I decide that life is not a struggle, but only just learning how to ride the wave. The Miss Warrior is within to get me through any challenge to find my spark and my peace again, because life is, and always will be, an inside job. Never run from the enemy. Tackle them.
Speaker 1:Victoria Adino, ashley Hillard, remind yourself of what you've been able to overcome All the times you felt like you weren't going to make it. Though you proved yourself wrong. You're more powerful than you think. Ash Alves, If you had told me that when I was just 21 years old, I would be over 500 pounds, had told me that when I was just 21 years old, I would be over 500 pounds, I Would have laughed in your face. But there I was, moving back to British Columbia after living in Alberta for six years. Upon my arrival, it was made clear to me that my appearance was not what was expected. Over the next year I lost about 100 pounds and stayed in the range of 350-400 plus pounds. No matter what I ate or how hard I tried, the weight wouldn't go away.
Speaker 1:Fast forward to my 30s, when I met my now husband, who loves me unconditionally, just the way I am, and was in a career I thought would last my lifetime. Within the next six years, my weight fluctuated. My best friend introduced me to Weight Watchers. I was initially skeptical and hesitant. I didn't believe that talking about my feelings or facing myself in the mirror was going to do any good. I have never been so happy to be so very wrong. At first the weight came off easily and then it didn't.
Speaker 1:I worked hard with my eating habits, eating lots of salads, proteins, etc. I went to the gym 5-6 days a week for 2 or more hours each time. I would do an hour workout, then swim for an hour, hit the warm relaxing therapy pool, then hot tub shower and go home. I loved it. I loved how strong I felt, the energy I had that I never had before and how I looked in the mirror. I paid for a trainer to help me with a program and we met once a week. He made me work and I couldn't get enough of it. He had to tell me several times to take a day off.
Speaker 1:This was in 2019, the same year my then-fiancé and I were planning on getting married. I had bought the most beautiful dress second-hand and it was a few sizes too small for me, so I used that as my motivation. And it was a few sizes too small for me, so I used that as my motivation. I was going to fit in that dress. In six months of hard work, I lost 90 pounds. I felt on top of the world and I thought I had finally found what was going to help me lose weight and keep it off. I had such high hopes and dreams for my future, a future of not being fat and finally being in control of my life.
Speaker 1:March of 2020, the month the world shuts down. In a matter of weeks, I lost the place I felt the most empowered the gym slash pool. My work closed for 73 days and I was stuck at home, not allowed to go anywhere. My then-fiancé still had to work, as he was an essential worker, so I was at home alone all day, with nothing to do but watch TV and eat. At first, I tried to stick to the healthy foods we had been doing for the last while and it was easy. I would see something to eat that I knew I shouldn't. But that voice inside would say oh, come on, one isn't going to hurt you no one wouldn't. But since when was one ever enough? Over the course of the next 73 days, I gained back 60 of the 90 pounds I had lost and to this day, I still struggle to lose even 5 pounds. This day, I still struggle to lose even 5 pounds.
Speaker 1:June 26, 2021. I'm so sorry to be the one who must tell you this, ma'am, but you have breast cancer. Those are words I never thought I would ever hear being said to me. I had found a lump a year earlier, but ignored it because I am a big girl. I got lumps and bumps. I didn't think anything of it. After hearing those words, I didn't even get the chance to digest them before I had surgery to remove the tumor.
Speaker 1:It was all done within a few weeks and it was hard. I felt so depressed and sad. Why me? Why did I develop breast cancer? I know I haven't always been good, but did I really deserve this?
Speaker 1:Mass depression took over me and all I did was sleep. I'd get up in the morning and pretend that I was okay, but as soon as my now-husband left for work I would sleep. I had nothing to do but watch TV and sleep. I tried to go for walks, but my body was just too tired from the chemo. I had no energy and at the time the world was still very much engulfed in the fight against COVID-19. Believe what you will about it, but those vaccines helped to save my life. My oncologist told me if you get COVID-19 while undergoing chemo, you will most likely die. I won't be able to save you. That was not a scare tactic. She was trying to save my life.
Speaker 1:For those who do not know, when one is undergoing chemotherapy treatments, they have zero immune system. A simple cold can kill them. Now that I am almost two years since completing the treatments, my body is different. I don't have the stamina I once had. I could not go as hard at the gym as I used to, not unless they wanted to peel me off the floor. I recently started to swim again. I try to go three days a week. It's helping with my mobility issues and decreases the pain just a little. But all that will have to wait until the next book. When God takes out the trash, don't go digging back through it. Trust Him. Amaka Imanin Kasazana. Julie Breaks. The desire to reach for the stars is ambitious. The desire to reach hearts is wise, maya Angelou.
Speaker 1:I have been no stranger to adversity From the tumultuous ups and downs of my marriage to the toxic environment of my government job and the strains of dysfunctional relationships. I had weathered more storms than I could count, but through it all, I never lost sight of one simple truth—sometimes, in order to find the light, you have to be willing to step out of the darkness. The first time I found myself at a crossroads was when my marriage began to crumble. For years, I had clung to the hope that things would improve, but eventually I realized that staying in a toxic relationship was doing more harm than good. With a heavy heart and a determination to reclaim my happiness, I made the difficult decision to file for divorce. It was a painful process, filled with tears and uncertainty, but I knew deep down that it was the right choice. As I navigated the challenging road ahead, I discovered a newfound strength within myself, a resilience that I never knew I possessed.
Speaker 1:But my journey didn't end there. As I rebuilt her life from the ground up, I also found myself questioning the beliefs and values that had once defined me. I had been a faithful member of a church for years, but as I grew and evolved, I began to feel disconnected from its teachings. With a heavy heart and a sense of apprehension, I made the decision to leave the church behind. It was a difficult choice, filled with uncertainty and fear of the unknown, but I knew that she needed to follow my own path, even if it meant stepping away from the familiar comforts of my community.
Speaker 1:As I continued to forge ahead on my journey of self-discovery, I also found myself at a crossroads in my career. My job had always been a source of stress and dissatisfaction, but I had stayed out of a sense of obligation, fear of change and money. But as I looked around at my work life, I knew that I deserved better. With courage and determination, I made the bold choice to leave my job behind and pursue my passions. It was a leap of faith filled with uncertainty and insecurity, but I knew I had to trust myself and my abilities. And as I took that leap, I discovered something truly remarkable—the unwavering support of a loving husband by my side. He was a beacon of light in my darkest moments, offering comfort, encouragement and unconditional love. With him by my side, I knew that she could weather any storm.
Speaker 1:But my journey didn't end there. As I continued to surround myself with positivity and love, I also found myself distancing from toxic relationships and dysfunctional loved ones. It was a painful process, filled with heartache and sadness, but I knew that I had to prioritize my and my family's own well-being. As I let go of the negative influences in my life, I discovered something truly magical a community of caring and loving women who lifted me up and supported me unconditionally. They were my tribe, my sisters, my confidants, and they showed me that I was never alone. With their support and guidance, I found the courage to embrace my true self and live my life authentically. And as I looked around at the beauty and abundance that surrounded me, I knew that I'd made the right choices. The journey has been long and challenging for me, but it has also been filled with moments of joy, growth and love. As I stood on the threshold of a new chapter in my life, I knew that I was exactly where I was meant to be surrounded by love, light and the unwavering support of those who cherish me for exactly who I am. I'd rather have a heart of gold than all the treasure of the world.
Speaker 1:Anna Claudia Antunes, embracing our warrior within, leaving victimhood behind by all of us. Once upon a time, a young woman named all of us lived in the land of self-discovery. All of us had always considered being a victim of circumstance. All of us believed that life had dealt a bad hand, leaving all of us feeling powerless and defeated. But little did all of us know deep within, there was a fierce warrior waiting to emerge. One sunny morning, as all of us sat pondering the woes of life, a wise old master appeared. With a twinkle in his eye and a mischievous grin. He declared All of us it's time for you to awaken the warrior within. All of us blinked in confusion. But, master, I am but a victim of life's injustices. How can I possibly become a warrior? The master chuckled softly. All of us.
Speaker 1:The difference between a victim and a warrior lies in their circumstances and how they choose to face them. A victim succumbs to the trials of life, while a warrior rises above them wielding courage and resilience. Intrigued by the master's words, all of us embarked on a journey of self-discovery, all of us bid farewell to victimhood and embraced the warrior within. Along the way, all of us encounter challenges aplenty, from fearsome dragons of self-doubt to treacherous swamps of despair. But with each obstacle, all of us found strength that was always there, waiting to be invited to the surface. As all of us ventured forth, all of us met fellow travelers who shared the journey together, laughing in the face of adversity, dancing in the rain of uncertainty and singing songs of triumph in the darkest of nights. With every step, all of us felt the spirit soar higher, the heart grow bolder and the smile shine brighter. Through the trials and triumphs, all of us felt the spirit soar higher, the heart grow bolder and the smile shine brighter.
Speaker 1:Through the trials and triumphs, all of us learned that being a warrior wasn't about vanquishing foes or conquering kingdoms. It was about embracing one's inner strength, finding joy in the journey and facing each day with courage and grace. And so, my dear reader, let all of us tales serve as a gentle reminder. Whether you find yourself lost in the depths of despair or dancing on the mountaintops of success, you always have the power to choose your path. So why not trade your victimhood for valor, your doubts for determination and your fears for fortitude, for within each of us lies a warrior waiting to be unleashed. All we have to do is believe. As the sun set on the horizon, casting a golden glow upon the land of self-discovery, all of us stood tall and proud, with hearts brimming and with newfound courage. With a smile upon the lips and a twinkle in the eye, all of us whispered to the wind I am a warrior, fierce and true, and with each step I take, I shall conquer the world anew. And so, dear reader, may you too embrace the warrior within, for in doing so, you will discover a world of endless possibilities, where dreams take flight and miracles abound. So go forth, with courage in your heart and a smile upon your lips, and let the journey begin. Angry people are not always wise. Jane Austen.
Speaker 1:10 Ways to Stop being a Victim and Start being a Warrior. Take responsibility. Acknowledge you have the power to shape your own life and take responsibility for your actions and decisions. Practice self-compassion. Treat yourself with kindness and understanding, recognizing that everyone faces challenges and setbacks. Set boundaries. Learn to say no to things that don't serve you and establish healthy boundaries in your relationships. Focus on solutions instead of dwelling on problems. Shift your focus to finding solutions and taking proactive steps to address them.
Speaker 1:Practice gratitude. Cultivate a mindset of gratitude by focusing on the things you're thankful for, even in difficult times. Seek support. Don't be afraid to reach out to friends, family or professionals for support and guidance when needed. Challenge negative thoughts. Recognize and challenge negative thought patterns, replacing them with more positive and empowering beliefs. Learn from mistakes. View mistakes and failures as opportunities for growth and learning rather than as evidence of your inadequacy. Focus on personal growth. Invest in your personal development and pursue activities that bring you joy, fulfillment and a sense of purpose. Let go of victim mentality. Release the belief that you are powerless and start seeing yourself as a resilient individual capable of overcoming obstacles. Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever. Mahatma Gandhi 10 Ways to Live with the Warrior Within.
Speaker 1:Cultivate courage. Face your fears head on and step out of your comfort zone, knowing that true growth lies on the other side of fear. Embrace challenges. Welcome challenges as opportunities to test your strength and resilience, knowing that each obstacle you overcome makes you stronger. Stay positive. Maintain a positive outlook on life, focusing on the possibilities rather than the limitations, and seeing setbacks as temporary setbacks. Trust your instincts. Listen to your inner voice and trust your instincts. Trust your instincts. Listen to your inner voice and trust your instincts, knowing you have the wisdom and intuition to guide you.
Speaker 1:Live with purpose. Align your actions with your values and goals. Living each day with purpose and intention. Stay flexible. Adapt to change with ease and flexibility, knowing that life is full of surprises and challenges. Practice self-discipline. Cult Practice self-discipline. Cultivate self-discipline and perseverance, staying committed to your goals even when faced with obstacles or setbacks. Celebrate your victories. Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small, and use them as fuel to propel you forward. Support others, lift others up and offer support and encouragement to those around you, knowing that true strength lies in lifting others up.
Speaker 1:Live in the present. Stay grounded in the present moment, letting go of worries about the past or future and fully embracing the beauty of the here and now, the Shift From Victimhood to Empowerment. It is essential to shift from a victim mindset to a warrior mentality, because it fundamentally alters how we perceive and navigate life's challenges. When we identify as victims, we relinquish control of our lives, attributing our hardships solely to external forces beyond our influence. This perspective breeds a sense of powerlessness and resignation, trapping us in a cycle of defeatism and despair. Embracing the warrior within empowers us to reclaim power over our circumstances.
Speaker 1:Warriors recognize that, while adversity may be inevitable, our response to it is entirely within our control. Instead of succumbing to defeat, warriors confront challenges head-on, with courage, resilience and determination. They refuse to be defined by their struggles, viewing each obstacle as an opportunity for growth and transformation. Adopting a warrior mentality fosters a sense of accountability and ownership over our lives. Rather than blaming external factors for our misfortunes, warriors take responsibility for their choices and actions. This shift empowers us to proactively shape our destinies, making conscious decisions that align with our values and aspirations.
Speaker 1:Embracing the warrior within cultivates a mindset of abundance and possibility. Warriors focus on opportunities and solutions instead of dwelling on limitations and setbacks. They approach life with optimism, resilience and an unwavering belief in their ability to overcome adversity. This positive outlook fuels personal growth and achievement, and inspires those around us to do the same. Additionally, a warrior mentality fosters self-confidence and self-efficacy. By confronting challenges and overcoming obstacles, we develop a deep sense of trust in our abilities and resilience. This newfound confidence propels us forward, enabling us to tackle even the most daunting of tasks with courage and conviction, embracing the warrior within, strengthens our resolve and lifts our spirits. It equips us with the tools and mindset necessary to navigate life's trials and tribulations, transforming us into designers of our own destiny. So let us shed the cloak of victimhood and put on the armor of the warrior, for it is within us all to rise above adversity and conquer our fears. Julie Firehurst.