Brunch Things

The idea of having an empowerment brunch hit me! Because you know, brunch is really popular now, and who doesn’t love mimosas? J Someone who I'm super inspired by is Ronne Brown because her story is out of this world – check her out! I recently visited her Instagram page and she posted a quote that said, “Women be having women empowerment events because it’s trendy, but they be nasty to women who aren’t part of the in-crowd.” I had to comment and say, "That's a word!" because it can be so true. Even if we aren't specifically referring to empowerment engagements, similar situations happen more often than we think. It was a spark for me to keep my eyes open and a reminder to stay focused on the reason behind my work. There are many things that we struggle to balance, but we should be comfortable in who we are and true to ourselves no matter where we are or who we are around. I dare not look down on someone because they don't resemble me in some fashion. Truthfully, we are all unworthy and should be thankful that God breathes fresh starts and grants us grace + mercy daily. 

"The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to make a difference - to show that you have lived and lived well. " 

- Ralph Waldo Emerson

While planning the brunch, I was scared, nervous, and all over the place. It was my first time planning an event. Let's just say it's easier to show up, all dressed up, rather than to put the work in. But as I put more thought into it – I wondered who could speak with me on these topics?

Chatassia Grigsby

Chatassia shared her story of building a relationship with God and how her purpose revealed itself when she started a new journey in life. She let us in on how she use to search for things she wanted, only to realize that they were always temporary. It was only when she focused on herself and ways to make herself whole, when everything she desired became visible. 

Dalvin Harris

Dalvin explained a 3-D method that revealed how our purpose aligns with us being disciplined, dedicated, and devoted to what we're passionate about. He elaborated on how his life had to be shaken and turned upside down in order for him to realize that all things will pass away, but what will always remain is who we are and what is deeply rooted within us. 

Wanda Nelms

 Wanda disclosed a host of personal experiences and left us with this amazing quote: "He who knows and knows that he knows is wise; follow him. He who knows not and knows not that he knows not, is a fool; shun him. He who knows not and knows that he knows not is teachable; teach him. He who knows and knows not that he knows is asleep, awaken him." Knowledge is not esteemed without the accompaniment of wisdom. Ask for wisdom, understanding, and discernment. Knowledge best honors God and benefits others thereafter. 

When I think about purpose, I think about doing something that I love. Our lives are meant to be lived with purpose and passion. What do you do on a daily basis? Are you engaged with people or projects you love? Or do you wake up and punch the clock to pay the bill? There's a difference in living rather than living a purpose-filled life. Living drains, irritates, and keeps you in a constant cycle of questioning what you're supposed to do in life. Living a purpose filled life brings usefulness, joy, and gives understanding of why you matter and what you're supposed to do. Below are a few questions to help you think about what your purpose truly is. 

1. What are you willing to struggle for?

2. What did your 8 year old self love to do?

3. What makes you forget to eat?

4. What issues do you hold close to your heart? How do/can you solve them?

5. If you don't/didn't have a job, what do you/would you do to fill the hours of the day?

I'm going to leave you with these acronyms of PURPOSE to give more insight. 

(P)erspective – Sometimes we don’t know what our purpose is because WE can’t see it. This doesn't mean someone else doesn't see it. Sometimes it takes a new or different perspective to be placed in our view in order for us to realize that we do have special qualities.

(U)seful – There are many ways for us to be useful in life. This varies within everyone. You may be great at expressing your love or affection to others, motivating someone to never quit, or holding the door for someone at the grocery store. All of these are ways to be useful.

(R)isk – Sometimes we are afraid to take risks simply because they are out of our comfort zone. It is impossible to live without taking risks. JUMP!

(P)ain – The one thing no one ever wants to talk about or admit they deal with. Pain is a part of life. How is it that we learn to rejoice in our strength when we’ve not had to endure?

(O)vercome – It’s not fun to make it to the finish line when all you’ve done is cheat the entire race. But, oh the joy when you’ve put in the work to finally get to where you want to be! It’s an amazing feeling to set a goal, but to set a goal AND achieve it is exhilarating! 

(S)ervice – To all mankind, right? Lol! No, seriously! Raise your hand if you live your life ONLY for yourself? *Waits* I know you didn't raise yours. Our lives are not ONLY about us. Yes, take the proper time and care that is needed for your upkeep. Restore and replenish yourself, but when you are done with that – help your neighbor.

(E)ndurance – You have to be persistent. You have to be purposeful. You can sit around and throw a pity party if you want – don't invite me.  Life gets tough, there’s no escaping it. HOLD ON and continue to work towards your victory!

Gathering such information and opening our minds takes us to places we've never dreamed of being. You are here for a reason. The world won't be able to stop you when you know where your PURPOSE + POWER is!

Christie C.