Earth, Water, & Rebirth

 A Weekend Reminder to Rest

Today, I gave myself a quiet, sacred yes: a swim. Not long. Not loud. But just enough. Enough to feel held. Enough to remember. The water welcomed me gently, cool, clear, and restorative. It met me like an old friend who knew what I needed before I could say it out loud. And just like that, my soul softened. I settled into a chair afterward, letting the breeze move across my skin like a song. I closed my eyes and listened, not just to the soft music playing nearby, or the occasional hum of airplanes overhead, but to my body and spirit exhaling. 

Even my watch seemed to exhale, detoxing itself from the water, reminding me that rest heals more than just the body. And, I smiled and chuckled to myself.  

Water as Womb, Earth as Anchor

In that still moment, I remembered what I've always known: Water heals. Air clears. Earth steadies. And rest restores. We were made for rhythms like this, for floating, breathing, listening, releasing. Water reminds us of where we began, in the safety of the womb and the promise of rebirth. And stillness gives us permission to remember who we are without the noise. 

A Gentle Practice for You

1. Find your water - a pool, a shower, a bath...whatever holds you in calm. 
2. Be present - No pressure, just pause. Let the water carry what you've been holding. 
3. Rest afterward - Sit somewhere quiet. Let the air kiss your skin. 
4. Breathe - Inhale slowly, exhale more slowly. Feel your body at the same time as the world.
5. Whisper this truth - "I am here. I am whole. I am home."

A Gentle Nudge

I've lived in this space for two years. But today was the first time I said yes to the pool. There's even a jacuzzi I've yet to enjoy. And that's the lesson tucked into this moment: How often do we live surrounded by rest, beauty, and healing, but keep postponing our own permission to receive it? So let this be your reminder. Use the keys you already hold. Say yes to your joy. Make time for your exhale. 

To you, dear reader, may this weekend carry its own quiet water. May it wash away your worry. May you find a chair, a breeze, and a breath that says:

"Welcome back to yourself!"

With love and gratitude,

Stacie J.

Exactly 4 Months to 50: The 50/50/50 Campaign Begins!

Miles, Milestones, and Memories In Motion

Yesterday, July 24th, marked a powerful turning point: we are exactly four months away from my 50th birthday. 

If you know me, you know this journey has been anything but linear. Doctors once said that I would not live this long. But God had other plans. Every breath I take is proof that purpose always wins. 

So yes, this milestone deserves celebration.
But even more than that, it deserves intention. 

This year, I'm walking into 50 with movement, meaning, and mission.
And, I am inviting you to walk with me. 

Introducing: The 50/50/50 Campaign

A soul-led journey to honor my life and legacy by committing to:

• Walk/run 50 miles between October 24th and November 24th. 
• Raise 50,000 to grow my wellness coaching and peer support services (will support scholarships)
• Celebrate turning 50 on November 24th
• Honor nearly 100,000 blog views from this amazing community built on love, learning, and healing. 

This isn't just a personal milestone.
This is a collective movement for healing, for legacy, for community impact. 

It's about saying yes to wholeness.

Yes to visibility. 

Yes to transformation one step at a time...LITERALLY!

Join Me for the 50/50/50 Mile Campaign Challenge

Let's walk into healing together between October 24th and November 24th. 

• Walk or run 50 miles over 30 days (your pace, your path)
• Post weekly photos or videos of your progress
• Receive a special keepsake when you finish
• Know that your $50 registration fee directly supports coaching scholarships for women seeking support on their healing journey. 

This is movement with meaning. A sacred walk of support and shared joy. 

Not a walker? That's okay. Maybe movement looks different for you. You can still be a part of this. Your energy, encouragement, and donations are deeply valued. 

Over the years, so many of you have stood beside me. You've read my words. Shared my journey. Encouraged my growth. Shared your personal stories. 

Now, I'm asking you to stand with me again as I step into this next divine chapter.  

Want to join the challenge or donate?

Email me at GodsGiftLLC@gmail.com and I'll share all the details.

You can also support now via PayPal - Click Here

More updates are coming: early registration, behind-the-scenes moments, and a growing 50/50/50 Community built to support this sacred mission. 

Let's celebrate healing in motion:

Every mile. 

Every memory. 

Every miracle. 

Exactly four months from now, I turn 50. 

And I'd love for you to be part of every step that gets me there. 

Excitedly Yours, 

Stacie J. 

From My Kitchen to the Continent: A Mandela Fellowship Gathering

When Botswana, Angola, and Arizona Meet at the Table

Mandela Fellows Dinner | June 28, 2025

A few weekends ago, my kitchen became a portal, a place where stories, laughter, and cultures from thousands of miles away met under the soft glow of candlelight and the hum of jazz. I had the profound honor of hosting two Mandela Washington Fellows, brilliant young women from Botswana and Angola. What began as a simple dinner quickly transformed into something sacred. It reminded me that we are all woven from threads of resilience, love, and hope. 

It was an evening filled with culture, comfort, connection, and courage. The kind of soul-stirring community that leaves a lasting imprint. We shared far more than a meal; we shared pieces of our stories, childhood memories, favorite foods, dreams, challenges, and the shared hope that bridges continents. 

Laughter echoed (cornbread is now affectionately known as "cake" 😄), the tea was soothing, and the conversation was deeply nourishing. We explored themes of identity, spirituality, therapy, family, and purpose. By the time my guests (sisters from the Motherland) left, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for divine alignment, meaningful exchange, and the truth that we are never truly alone in our journeys. 

This was more than hospitality; it was healing. A reminder that though we live in different places, many of us are navigating similar questions, hardships, and awakenings. Together, we've chosen to lean into love, wisdom, growth, and joy, to take chances, to expand, and to keep showing up. Thank you, ASU, for the opportunity to connect with these phenomenal women. I'll carry this evening with me always. 

With gratitude,

Stacie J. 

 

We Are Still Here

 A Journey into Memory, Spirit, and Belonging

Not long ago, I had the pleasure of walking into the Heard Museum. I did so with childlike curiosity. As I walked, my soul stirred. 

Though much of the museum focused on the art, history, and survival of Native people of Arizona, like the Navajo, O'odham, and Yavapai, it sparked something deeper in me. It awakened a knowing. A remembrance. A rootedness that whispered, "You belong here, too!" 

As I moved through the gallery spaces filled with pottery, textiles, ceremonial regalia, and stories of endurance, I could feel the voices of my own ancestors rising from within me. I am Cherokee. I am Blackfoot. I am Sioux. I am Tikar from Cameroon. I am Irish. I am Nigerian. My DNA holds codes from the peoples of Mali, Ghana, Senegal, Benin, and several other places from the Motherland. And somehow, in that sacred space, every thread of my lineage felt honored. Unified. Present. 

We are still here.

We are the songs of rivers, the fire of story, the drum of memory.

I stood still in one gallery room, sunlight pouring through the arched windows, and for a moment, I saw her: a grandmother I had never met. A woman who perhaps walked with the earth's pulse beneath her feet, who prayed in song, who knew herbs and how to speak to birds. I thought of my mother, her rich brown skin and soft, round face, her wisdom wrapped in gentleness and fierce love. I thought of my children and the stories they now carry. I thought of every person whose feet have walked with purpose, even when the path was unclear. 

This experience reminded me that though we come from different tribal nations, our stories are braided together by the sacred threads of resilience, reverence, and renewal. 

We are earth-tenders. Story-keepers. Dreamers. Warriors of compassion. 

Affirmations from Ancestral Truth:

• My identity is layered, complex, holy, and whole.
• I am the living prayer of those who walked before me.
• I walk in the strength, wisdom, spirit, insight and resilience of my ancestors.
• I am grounded in the Earth's, wisdom, guided by ancestral memory, and inspired by a future that honors all that I am.
• I am called to be a voice for the voiceless, a vessel for healing, a bridge between worlds. 
• The stories I carry are sacred gifts. 
• I belong everywhere the Creator has placed me, and I bloom again and again. 

Reflections for the Soul:

• What rituals or practices ground you in who you are?
• What part of your ancestry have you not yet explored, but feel called to remember?
• How can you honor the lands you now live on and the people who first stewarded them?
• What stories are you carrying that your descendants will one day need to hear?

In this season of continued transformation, choose to honor every part of your lineage, not just in word, but in love, in learning, in sacred living. The museum reminded me that healing isn't just personal, it's collective. It's generational. It's sacred. 

And, we are still here! 

May we walk gently. May we rise powerfully. May we remember. 

Soulfully, 

Stacie J. 

73,000+ reads. 63 countries. Countless hearts connected.

 THANK YOU!!!

To every single person who has read, shared, or quietly reflected with me along the way...thank you!

This blog has become more than a space for words, it's become a sanctuary for healing, hope, and honest connection. Whether you've been here from the start or just found your way here, please know that your presence matters. Your engagement, seen or unseen, gives life to every post I write. 

Let's keeping growing together with grace, courage, and creativity! 

With love and gratitude, 

Stacie J. 

Vibrations, Veggies, & Vitality

 A Morning Grove To Remember

Let me tell you something about good intentions and loyal dogs: they don't always align. 

After a late night out, I had grand dreams of sleeping in, wrapped up in blankets and denial. But at 6:14 AM (yes, that precise), my dogs reminded me that their body clocks don't care about mine. And you know what? I'm grateful. 

I thought I'd sneak back into bed after our usual "outdoor business" run. But before I knew it, my hands were grabbing workout clothes, as if my soul already knew we were going on a journey. We ended up walking/jogging nearly five miles. At the halfway point, we plopped down in one of my favorite parks. Just me, the pups, the breeze, and the birds. I sat in the grass, prayed, meditated, even sang to the trees (they were kind enough not to judge my morning voice, but instead swayed rhythmically). Another reminder to be grateful. 

I kid you not, I felt vibrations from the ground beneath me. Either I was totally aligned, or the Earth decided to jump-start my spiritual Wi-Fi. Either way...I received it all!

When I returned home, I treated myself to an hour of yoga and a few moments of stillness with soft music playing in the background. Then came the nourishing part: a creamy banana, pumpkin seed, and ginger smoothie with nut butter, and my vibrant homemade juice made of beets, watermelon, mixed berries, and red cabbage. Add in some ice water and a bubble bath steeped in health clay and magnesium, and listen, that was just the reset I didn't know I needed to start my day. 

Here's your gentle reminder: 

Your version of self-care might look totally different. Maybe it's journaling with a cup of tea. Maybe it's dancing in your kitchen in fuzzy socks. Or maybe, like me, it's slow sips and soaking in the goodness of life, minerals, music, and all. Whatever it is, be kind to yourself. If you're just getting started, start small: one breath. One moment of stillness. One walk outside. And if you find it hard to stay consistent, consider joining a community of like-minded people who care about wellness, wholeness, and showing up for themselves every day. 

Cheers to slow sips, steady movement, deep breathing, and meaningful connections; to the Earth, to others, and most of all, to yourself. 

With love and support, 

Stacie J. 

The Sacred Power of Grounding

 A Spiritual and Scientific Look at Earthing without the Woo-Woo

Grounding is not a “trend” or strange ritual; it’s an ancient practice rooted in creation itself. 

Sitting beneath a tree or walking barefoot on the Earth is one of the simplest ways to realign with your Creator, your breath, and your body. 

This post explores how something so natural can support our spiritual, physical, and emotional wellness, and why it’s time we reclaim these sacred rituals without fear, guilt, or confusion.

Benefits of Grounding Under a Tree on Grass 

1. Electron Exchange & Anti-Inflammatory Effect
   • The Earth’s surface is rich in negatively charged electrons.
   • When you make skin contact (e.g., bare feet, hands), your body absorbs these electrons, which may help neutralize excess positive ions (from stress, EMFs, inflammation).
   • This can lead to reduced inflammation, better immunity, and faster healing. 
   
   
2. Nervous System Reset
   • Being in natural settings (especially under a tree) calms the sympathetic nervous system (fight/flight) and activates the parasympathetic nervous system (rest/digest).
   • Helps reduce anxiety, lower blood pressure, and improve sleep.
   
   
3. Tree Connection Amplifies Energy
   • Trees emit subtle bioelectromagnetic frequencies, and when you sit beneath them, you are enveloped in their grounding, stabilizing field.
   • Many believe trees help regulate your energy field (aura) and support emotional balance, think of them as ancient, living conduits of wisdom and Earth energy. 
   
   
4. Boosts Mood and Brain Chemistry
   • Direct contact with Earth increases serotonin and dopamine levels naturally.
   • Exposure to phytoncides (aromatic compounds trees release) improves immune function and elevates mood. 
   
   
5. Vitamin D (if sun is out) + Circadian Reset
   • Morning sun exposure while grounded helps balance circadian rhythms, boosts Vitamin D, and may support better melatonin production at night.

Supercharging with Ions: Is It Real?

Yes, in a simplified sense:

• The body accumulates positive ions from stress, pollution, and electronics (EMFs).
• The Earth is rich in negative ions, which can help restore electrical balance.
• This “exchange” is like recharging your internal battery, hence the feeling of calm, clarity, and even physical energy after grounding. 

Try This Grounding Ritual: 

1. Sit or lie in the grass, bare feet or hands touching the ground. 
2. Lean your back against a tree or gently rest your palms on it. 
3. Close your eyes. Breathe deeply. 
4. Visualize the Earth’s energy flowing up through your body, and stress draining down into the Earth to be transmuted. 
5. Stay at least 20–30 minutes (though even 10 minutes can help).

Recap: Grounding supports your health, reduces, inflammation, increases electron absorption, lowers oxidative stress, helps with better sleep, regulates cortisol and melatonin, provides emotional balance, calms the nervous system, promotes mindfulness, boosts circulation, reduces tension, it's an energetic reset, neutralizes EMF exposure, recharges aura and so much more.  

So be sure to take care of yourself. Be still and know!

With love,

Stacie J. 

Heart Swell for Nature & Continued Transformation

Today, a pigeon walked up to me freely and boldly. I smiled and greeted it, only to notice that something was different. “Clokie Warrior,” as I named this brave bird, had two legs but only two toes on one foot, and just one on the other. My heart swelled.

I asked, “What happened to your toes?” Of course, I didn’t expect a reply, but I wanted to speak to him with love. When I realized I didn’t have any food to share, I told him so, still engaging, and still holding space for this vulnerable, wounded creature. Another pigeon approached but veered away, leaving Clokie Warrior alone again. And suddenly, I felt sadness, not just for this one bird, but for all who walk with wounds we cannot see.

I thought about people. Veterans who return home missing limbs. Children born with disabilities. Individuals fighting battles with invisible illnesses. I wondered: In the animal kingdom, do creatures care for each other when they are wounded? And if so, how much more should we as people, those made in the very image of God, do the same for one another?

Scripture Reflections on Compassion & Worth

 “Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God.” — Luke 12:6 (NIV)


If even the smallest bird is not forgotten by the Creator, how dare we forget each other.

 “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:18 (NIV)


God draws near to those who hurt. Shouldn’t we do the same?

 “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these...you did for me.” — Matthew 25:40 (NIV)


Every act of kindness, especially for the vulnerable, is an act of worship.

 “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
— Galatians 6:2 (NIV)

The law of Christ is love in action.

Reframing How We See the Vulnerable

We live in a time where compassion sometimes seems overshadowed by competition, power, and appearance. It’s easy to dismiss people who are struggling, especially when we label them as lazy or incapable. But Jesus didn’t do that. In fact, He often stopped specifically for those whom others ignored or cast aside.

Yes, Jesus asked the man at the pool if he wanted to be made well (John 5:6), but that wasn’t a challenge; it was an invitation. An invitation to believe again. To hope again. To see that change was possible. What if we approached people with that same grace? Instead of condemnation, what if we asked:

• What would healing look like for you?
• How can I support you?
• What strengths do you carry that the world might not see?

From Nature to Neighbor: Let’s Be More Like Love

I believe we are called not only to observe nature, but to learn from it. In the animal kingdom, there are instances of animals protecting, nurturing, and even grieving for one another. If God placed that within them, what greatness of empathy and divine love must lie within us?

After all, we are God’s hands and feet on earth. We are the chosen vessels to carry His compassion, justice, and healing into the world.

And if Clokie Warrior, the bold, wounded pigeon, can walk with courage and approach another creature in peace, surely we can walk forward in the same manner. With bold love. With compassionate presence. With grace.

Reflection & Action

• When was the last time you slowed down enough to notice someone else's pain?
• Who around you may be “walking with missing toes,” hiding their wounds?
• How can you offer love, not pity, but love with dignity?
• Are there beliefs you need to unlearn about those who are vulnerable or struggling?
• This week, can you choose one act of intentional compassion for someone who might feel unseen?

Closing Blessing

May we have eyes to see as God sees.
Hearts to love as Jesus loved.
Hands that heal.
Voices that uplift.
And spirits anchored in truth:
That every life, winged or walking, is sacred.

With love, peace, and joy,

Stacie J. 

A Heartfelt Thank You

WOO HOOOOOO! 

To every soul who has read, shared, commented, or quietly journaled along with me, THANK YOU! 

My blog has now reached over 71,000 readers in over 63 countries, and I am both humbled and honored. That’s 71,000 moments of connection, reflection, healing, and hope. What a beautiful and sacred thing!

Whether you've been here from the beginning or just recently found your way to this space, I want you to know how much your presence matters. Your engagement, seen and unseen, fuels the purpose behind every post I write.

If the reflective questions in any of my posts resonated with you, I invite you to take a moment to journal your answers or even share them in the comments if you feel called. These questions are more than prompts; they're gentle doorways into growth, clarity, and healing.

As we continue this journey together, I’d love to walk with you in even deeper ways.

If you’re looking for more personalized support or you want to gather your own tribe for a creative healing and writing experience, I offer 1:1 coaching sessions and virtual healing circles through my coaching website:

👉 www.StacieJWhitakerHarris.com

Feel free to book a session for yourself or reach out about curating a healing circle for your community, team, or sister friends. Let’s keep growing together, with grace, courage, and creativity.

With deep gratitude,

Stacie J.

Halfway There

A Gentle Check-In for the Soul

Can you believe we’re already more than halfway through 2025? This year has been full of wonder and awe. Yes, it's also had a few bumps and rough patches along the way, but we are still here, and that alone is a testament to our resilience and perseverance.

Isn’t it interesting how time can feel like it’s racing by one moment and standing still the next? So far, I’ve made meaningful strides toward the goals I set, and as I enter this next half of the year, I’m going full throttle, totally committed to finishing what I’ve started. And while that’s exciting, I’ll be honest: it’s also a little nerve-wracking. Passion sometimes flickers under the weight of unexpected delays or detours. But I’ve learned that courage can coexist with uncertainty. I’ve also learned the power of being held by community when I need encouragement, and honoring solitude when I need to recharge.

Originally, this post was going to be a reflection on some of the troubling things I’ve seen and heard lately. But instead, I felt an intense nudge in my spirit to pause and reflect on how far I’ve come, and to encourage you to do the same! It’s easy to focus on what’s not working. Harder sometimes to truly acknowledge our growth. That’s why both solitude and community are vital; they help us see ourselves clearly, through rest and reflection, and through the eyes of those who remind us who we are.

So here’s a gentle invitation before you move on to your next task or goal...

Pause, Reflect, and Ask yourself:

• What have I learned so far this year?
• Where have I grown, even in ways I didn’t expect?
• What am I proud of, even if it’s something small?
• What am I ready to do differently in this next chapter?
• How do I want to show up in this next version of myself?

This is your moment to regroup, refocus, and reimagine. You’re allowed to be both a work in progress and a masterpiece in motion. 

Here’s to courage, clarity, and finishing strong with grace.

With love and support,

Stacie J.

When Asking Is the Bravest Thing You Can Do

Honoring Community, Rejecting Judgment, and Remembering the Power of Collective Care

I remember the struggles of motherhood. As a woman who raised three children, it was certainly challenging. After we lost our home, we lived pillar to post. Sometimes I made sure they had a place to sleep while I rested in a vehicle, just to avoid burdening the families offering us support. It took years to recover from the debt, the losses, the embarrassment, and the deep disruption to my life. I even started a fundraiser once, trying to raise $5,000 just to get back on track. Those were tough times.

Recently, a woman around my age that's still raising a family, bravely asked our community for help. Not surprisingly, some responded with messages lacking compassion. I saw things like: “Don’t be desperate,” or “It’s embarrassing to ask,” or the familiar “I’ll pray for you” with no real support behind it. I messaged her to let her know she is seen, known, felt, and cared for deeply. I offered quiet, tangible support and reminded her that God, the Creator of all would sustain and keep her.

This encounter made my heart and spirit feel deeply ready for tree-life living. A place where the community sits in a circle and eats from the same pot. Progress has, in many ways, broken down our capacity for care and collective concern. We’ve traded compassion for competition, community for individualism. Why are we so hell-bent on appearing whole, never in need, always polished, excellent, and put-together? I don’t believe that God ever intended for us to collect things (wealth, status, houses, cars, etc.) and neglect our neighbors and community. 

We till the ground and produce food, yes, but we’re also meant to sit together and enjoy the fruits of our labor as a community. I’m tired of rugged individualism and capitalism at all costs, even when it costs us our elders, our children, and the most vulnerable among us. I have thoughts and solutions. They’re not divisive, but sometimes when I share them, ridicule and scorn come my way. Some people like to have someone to look down on. I am not one of them. 

Though my means are modest, I give what I can to support the collective. I always have and I always will. My heart is not tethered to things; it’s anchored in love, for the betterment of humankind and the earth.

With Love for the Collective,

Stacie J.

🌷 Take Care of Your Mother’s Daughter (Borrowed Title)

A Love Letter for Daughters Missing Their Mothers and the Women Who Nurture Us All

My mother was, and still is, my rock.

If you didn’t know us, you might’ve thought I was an only child because I did all the “only child” things. Even at 21, with children of my own, I would curl up in her lap when I needed comfort. I’d lay my head on her lap when sadness hit. I called her countless times each week just to hear her voice. And yes, I even asked her to pat my back just because it soothed me. And she always did, without question.

May is always a complicated month. It holds both Mother’s Day and Memorial Day, and it carries the ache of deep remembrance for me. My mother passed away on May 29, 2000 which was Memorial Day weekend. This year marks 25 years without her, and while I’ve learned how to carry my grief, the weight never disappears.

In those early years, I created new traditions. Instead of focusing on her death in May, I celebrated her life on her birthday in February. As time passed and my healing deepened, those gatherings grew and shifted, and now, once again, I’m evolving.

This year, I’m holding space not just for myself, but for you. For every woman who has known the love, complexity, or absence of a mother. For every daughter navigating life with an ache in her chest. For every community caretaker, sister-friend, grandmother, or mother-figure who carries grief and gives love.

I invite you to join me for “The Power of Pause,” my inaugural post–Mother’s Day event, a gentle space for reflection, connection, and restoration. We will gather to breathe, feel, and be held in community.

Earlier today, I attended an online gathering called “Mother’s Day for Motherless Daughters,” and it moved me deeply. Nearly 400 women gathered virtually, sharing stories, tears, tools, and truths. One quote pierced my heart and stayed with me:

“Take care of your mother’s daughter.”

I don’t recall who said it, but it felt like it was meant for all of us.

So today, I say it to you: Take care of your mother’s daughter.
Speak kindly to yourself. Wrap your arms around your grief and joy.
Whether you had a beautiful bond with your mother, a complicated relationship, or none at all, your journey is valid, and you are loved.

And if your mother or any woman who’s nurtured you is still here, go hug her.
And give her one from me, too.

Sending Warm Hugs,

Stacie 

NOTE: This title was inspired by a phrase shared during the “Mother’s Day for Motherless Daughters” gathering. I may not remember who said it, but the words live in my heart—and now I pass them on to you.

Book Review: The Courageous Pursuit of Authenticity

An Anthology by Eight Courageous Women

As a woman on her own healing journey, and one who serves others as a Healer, this book spoke directly to my soul. The Courageous Pursuit of Authenticity is a powerful reminder that although our lives are vastly different, they are also deeply connected. Story is what weaves us together, offering understanding, validation, and the space to feel seen.

I had the honor of meeting one of the authors, Mrs. Nyoka Samuels-Gilchrist, during a women’s event where she spoke candidly about menopause. Her topic, “Girl, It’s Getting Hot in Here,” was both relatable and empowering. She offered practical advice, shared herbal remedies, and encouraged us to advocate for ourselves, starting with checking our hormone levels. Her presence and wisdom left a lasting impression.

Reading her chapter in this anthology felt oddly familiar. No, I didn’t immigrate to the U.S. like she did, but I do know what it’s like to be uprooted. To leave behind a place you love, filled with the laughter of childhood friends, and step into unfamiliar territory. I also know what it’s like to experience a “nervous breakdown” and have it dismissed by family, friends, and even medical professionals. Especially when you’re seen as “too young,” or “the strong one,” or accused of simply exaggerating.

This book mirrors the style I use in my own writing. Each chapter invites you to pause, reflect, and dig deep into your own soul. The journaling prompts are gentle nudges toward inner truth, and the stories are full of wisdom, vulnerability, and courage.

I give this anthology a solid 5 out of 5 stars—not just for the powerful narratives and healing reflections, but for its thoughtful design. The cover is stunning, and the layout pulls you in before you even read the first word.

If you are on a journey toward deeper self-awareness and wholeness, The Courageous Pursuit of Authenticity belongs in your hands and your heart.

I Am the Carving: Embracing Divinity

Written by Stacie J. Whitaker-Harris 4/22/2025

There are moments in life when the divine speaks not through thunder or scripture, but through dreams, symbols, and the stillness of our becoming.

I had a dream. I was in the woods surrounded by trees; sacred, ancient, full of memory. In the dream, I came across a piece of carved wood. On it were three animals:

    • An eagle at the top
    • A bear
    • A Siberian tiger

I didn’t know then, but I do now: I am the carving.

This dream came at a time when everything in my life is shifting. I am transitioning into deeper healing, releasing control over what I cannot fix, trusting my gut like never before. I am learning that I don’t have to serve everyone at the expense of myself. I am becoming someone new while still honoring the woman I’ve always been.

• The eagle reminded me to rise, to see with spiritual clarity.
• The bear reminded me to protect my peace, to retreat when necessary, and trust my inner wisdom.
• The tiger reminded me to roar when needed and own my power, even when resources feel scarce. And, remember that the Earth is an abundant resource. I am not only connected to her, I am the physical manifestation of Mother. 

I am entering my 50th year with intention, running races, coaching, creating healing spaces, AND raising $50,000+ to continue the work I am called to do. My 50/50/50 Campaign isn’t just a fundraiser. It’s an offering. A declaration. A resurrection. I am no longer who I was, and (because multiple things can be true at the same time), I’m still not fully who I am becoming. I am walking this path with ancestors surrounding me and Spirit guiding me. 

Even as I feel all these things and live in my truth, I offer this to anyone else out there who feels like they’re in between:

You are not broken. You are being carved. And your shape will hold meaning for generations. 

 

With love,
Coach Stacie J. Whitaker-Harris
Your sister in healing, your witness in transformation.

 

Notice / Disclaimer:
This poem and all accompanying artwork are the original creations of Stacie J. Whitaker-Harris and are protected under U.S. copyright law. Any reproduction, distribution, or use of this work in whole or in part without the express written permission of the author is strictly prohibited.

Thank you for honoring and respecting the creative integrity of this work.

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Unbound: I am a force

A Poetic Revelation from the Carved Spirit Within

Written by Stacie J Whitaker-Harris
4/15/2025

There are moments in our journey where Spirit speaks not in whispers but in echoes that rumble through our bones. This poem came to me days after a dream where I stood surrounded by trees, staring at a sacred carving—an eagle, a bear, and a tiger, layered in wisdom and power. I didn’t know then what message awaited me, but now, I do: I am the carving. I am the force. And I am unbound.

I am a force of nature.
A reckoning.

Tides high, I roll with the shift of each cascading wave.

I rise like the suns rays while gazing at the moon. Two lights, one purpose, to pave the way for all to see.

I am a force that fuels embers, sparks flames, and sets ablaze.

Igniting all on the pathway, building bridges of curiosity, and I paint the stage red, yellow, no blue, because my fire is the inferno that forges newness.

I am the destroyer and creator.
The terror and the peace.

I am the blackest night untold, holding scores of stars in the palm of my left hand and pouring millions of grains of sand with my right.

I am the weight weighing heavy on justices' scales, tipping over the tables of injustices because I am a force of nature.

I am unbound by time.
No chains on this mind.
I prevail.

I am a force, the source of freedom.
All doors open.
Blissfully welcoming opportunities to soar with eagles.

I am unbound.

Notice/Disclaimer:
This poem and all art is the original work of Stacie J. Whitaker-Harris and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or use of this work in any form without the express written consent of the author is strictly prohibited.

Thank you for respecting the creative integrity of this piece! 

Bubbles, Rum, & Running Shoes

A Weekend of Miles, Midlife & Meaning 

Talk about a weekend that left its mark. By the time Monday rolled around, I was convinced it was still Sunday—proof that both my cup and calendar were overflowing.

Saturday kicked off with the Bubble Run 5K, and I mostly walked this one. It was bright and early—8AM start, 7AM registration—way out in the West Valley at Camelback Ranch-Glendale, the Spring Training home of the Chicago White Sox and L.A. Dodgers. Fancy, right?

And yet… I didn’t sleep the night before. Again. What is it with me and this “back-to-school” nervous energy before races? It’s like my body thinks I’m being graded on punctuality and vibes. I started feeling sick to my stomach (thanks, nerves), and I didn’t know the area well. Add a hundred cars backed up at a single light, and you get one overwhelmed runner-walker trying to play it cool.

Over 7,000 people showed up in waves—which thankfully made it feel less chaotic. I loved seeing families out there, mamas with double strollers, and babies with more energy than I had after my pre-race protein bar. But hey, I didn’t pass out or throw up. We’re counting that as a win!

After the Bubble Run, I made my way to Gilbert, AZ, to support my dear friend Myeisha at a Midlife Women’s Wellness event—a true balm for the soul. I walked in feeling tired and left feeling restored. Sound baths, EFT tapping, breathwork, journaling, and some delicious, healthy cuisine? Yes, please. I needed all of it—and then some.

Sunday rolled in with the Rum Run 5K—because apparently, one race a weekend just isn’t enough when you’re turning 50 in style! This one had a 5PM start, complete with hilarious costumes, great music, and even rum punch at the finish line. (Don’t worry, I earned it.) I met a potential new running buddy, which makes this race even more memorable. My time? 41:04 with a 13:15 pace. Not my fastest, but considering I did a back-to-back race weekend, I’m proud. Oh, and the finisher’s medal? A mini flask. Yes, really. Cute and functional.

🎉 Race Recap Progress:

    ✔️ 3 of 3 5Ks
    ✔️ 1 of 2 10Ks
    🔜 1 Marathon to go
    💰 $50K fundraising goal—now in motion!

Every mile I walk or run is not just for me—it’s for the vision. The 50/50/50 Campaign isn’t just a clever title; it’s a movement. As I celebrate my upcoming 50th birthday, I’m running 50+ miles to raise $50,000 to expand my coaching and peer support practice. Why? Because I believe healing should be accessible, intentional, and soul-stirring.

Your support helps fund the tools and space I need—from art supplies and tech to healing manuals and safe, sacred space—so more people can experience deep, creative healing regardless of their financial situation. With each donation, you're helping someone reclaim their story, rediscover their peace, and reimagine their life.

Whether you're walking your own path, cheering from the sidelines, or ready to lace up with me—thank you for believing in this vision. Let’s keep moving, creating, and healing together.

👉🏽 50/50/50 Campaign

Give. Share. Walk with me. Because transformation starts with one step.

Captured Moments: The 50/50/50 Journey in Motion

Here’s a peek into a weekend filled with miles, milestones, memories, and meaningful connections—captured in real-time as part of my 50/50/50 journey. 💫👟📷

 

Trusted Friend

I grew up with dogs, but my most trusted companion was Misty—a full-bred German Shepherd with a fierce spirit and a heart full of loyalty. She was my shadow, my protector, my friend. Then there was "Dog"—a nameless stray we loved nonetheless (though I admit, he deserved better than just “Dog”).

Midway through my fifth-grade year, we moved to a new community. It was exciting—until Misty got loose, lost in an unfamiliar world she didn’t know how to navigate. We searched, we hoped, we grieved. Losing her was heartbreaking. In fact, I think it was the reason I never truly allowed myself to connect with another animal after that. It was too painful to open my heart again.

Then came MarLee, my daughter’s little Chiweenie. From the moment I met him, I was smitten. She asked me to keep him for a while, and I happily agreed. He was adorable, affectionate—and, to be honest, a bit of a handful. Having a pet again felt almost like having a small child—finding dog sitters when I traveled, making sure he was fed, taking him for walks. It was a job. But it was also love. He became my little companion, my comfort.

When MarLee went back home to my daughter, I was relieved to have my freedom back—but I also felt something I hadn’t expected. The house was too quiet. Too empty. I missed him more than I thought I would.

I knew I couldn’t make an emotional decision, so I gave myself time—two months to sit with the stillness, to reflect on what I truly wanted. Eventually, I decided to adopt a rescue dog. I wasn’t ready for the demands of a puppy, but I also wanted a companion young enough to share adventures with.

And then came Bear. The adjustment wasn’t easy, but before I knew it, she had nestled into my life and heart. My trusted friend. My hiking, running, walking partner. Wherever I went, she went. And in her quiet companionship, I found something I didn’t even know I was missing.

A Moment of Reflection

Sometimes, love finds us in unexpected ways. Sometimes, it walks on four legs and reminds us that companionship isn’t just about presence—it’s about connection, trust, and the silent understanding that we are never truly alone.

• Who or what has been a trusted friend in your life? 
• Do you have a fur baby who has left paw prints on your heart? A pet who has been your loyal companion through life’s ups and downs? Or perhaps a person, a memory, or even a place that brings you comfort?

I’d love to hear about your trusted friends—past or present. Share your stories in the comments! 💛🐾

Warmly, 

Stacie J. Whitaker-Harris