Written on 7/15/2014:
Things I'm feeling today:
- Full of excitement.
- Disappointed in mankind.
- Hurt by men I trusted.
- Ready to reach, touch, and capture buckets full of stars.
- Pleased to be the mother of Stashauna, Chae, and Stachal.
- Sad that my baby brother is no longer in the city of Baltimore, but not sad because he made a change. Disheartened as to why he was forced to make such a drastic change at this moment in his life.
- Desirous to see my family grow and prosper.
- Happy that writing and reading still feed me as well as soothe me.
- Sort of on edge about how things will play out regarding my relationship with my bestie.
- I bathed, and that was soothing.
Written on 7/16/2014:
Today my daughter called me, expressing frustration with the "same old same old." She said she felt she should pursue her dream of dancing and put school on the back burner. I told her I support her 1000%. I’m currently reading Girlboss by Sophia Amoruso, and this excerpt is what I wanted to share with her:
"I tried the obvious route of hourly jobs and community college, and it just never worked for me. I’d been told for so long that the path to success was paved with a series of boxes you check off, starting with getting a degree and a job, and as I kept trying and failing at these, it sometimes seemed that I was destined for a life in the loser lane. But I always suspected that I was destined for something bigger, and I was capable of more...I didn’t find it. I created it! Abandon anything about your life and habits that might be holding you back, learn to create your own opportunities. Know that there is no finish line. Fortune favors action. Race, ball out towards the extraordinary life that you’ve always dreamed of, or still haven’t had time to dream up. And prepare to have a hell of a lot of fun along the way."
Reflection:
As I revisit these writings, I realize that I was speaking to my past self, my current self, and leaving a trail of wisdom for my future self. It's almost as if I knew that these words would provide me solace, guiding me to continue growing and being who I want to be. In one of my entries, I asked myself: Who are you? What do you do? Who do you do it for? When do we do it? How do we do it? Where are we doing it? And why are we doing it?
These questions were the foundation of my journey, the beginning of discovering my purpose. From my gift basket and event planning company, which financially supported my nonprofit initiatives, to self-publishing my first two books and later starting my own publishing company. From becoming The Chauffeurette and providing premium transportation services, including helping sick people get to Johns Hopkins Hospital for medical treatments, to launching my marketing and writing business, and now running my Coaching and Peer Support business—serving others has been at the core of everything I do.
I still find myself asking the question: Why? This question helps me stay grounded, even amidst the noise of the world. It reminds me of why I do what I do—why I continue to serve, create, and support others. This journey didn’t start in adulthood; it began when I was a child, with music, poems, stories, and paintings that aimed to inspire.
And here I am, still creating, still serving, still loving, and supporting others in the best ways I know how. I have always been driven by my purpose, and I plan to continue to do what fuels my soul—sharing my gifts with the world while helping others thrive.
A Word of Encouragement:
By posting this reflection, I hope to not only share a part of my past but to inspire you to reflect on your own path and consider the gifts you are bringing to the world. Whatever you’re feeling today, remember that growth often comes from the most unexpected places, and your past can always be a tool to help build your future. Don’t be afraid to dream big and create the life you truly deserve.
If you're reading this, wherever you are in your own journey, know that your path is uniquely yours. Ask yourself the important questions, like I did. Don’t be afraid to create your own opportunities and pursue your dreams, even when the road is uncertain. Keep moving forward, and trust that every step—no matter how small—brings you closer to who you’re meant to become. Your journey is yours to design, and the stars are waiting for you to reach them.
Keep going. You’ve got this.
Reflective Questions for You:
In this space, I want to ask you to reflect and ask yourself:
Do you know the value of self-reflection and introspection?
In our busy lives, it’s easy to forget the power of taking a moment to pause and check in with ourselves. How often do you take time to reflect on your thoughts, emotions, and actions?How are you feeling today?
Right now, in this moment—what’s going on inside of you? Are you feeling positive, uncertain, hopeful, or a bit lost? It’s important to acknowledge how we feel, as it can shape our next steps.Are you willing to admit if you are facing challenging mindsets?
We all go through moments of doubt, fear, or limiting beliefs. Being honest about where we are mentally and emotionally helps us break free from those barriers and move toward growth.What have you done lately to show yourself love, care, and gratitude?
Showing love and care to others is vital, but what about to yourself? When was the last time you took time for self-care or expressed gratitude for your journey, your growth, and all that you’ve accomplished?
Final Thought:
Take a moment today to answer these questions honestly. Allow yourself the grace to acknowledge where you are, and remember that even the smallest actions can move you toward greater fulfillment. Embrace your journey with love, patience, and a deep belief in your ability to grow. Keep pressing forward!
With love and gratitude,
Stacie J. Whitaker-Harris
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