Reflecting on Core Values: Navigating Life's Choices with Wisdom
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Hello Gumbo Family,
There has been a lot of death in my family in the last few months. Like the coming of a New Year, it makes me reflective. Especially when you are at funeral listening to the accomplishments of the recently departed. The only thing I like about funerals are the stories people share that gives you even more insight into the person and your view of them.
You can tell by the fruit of their labors just what they valued. It’s made me reflective about what I say I value versus what life tells me I really value. I am going to make some changes.
WELLNESS WISEDOM:
Your core values act as the unsung heroes of your well-being. They steer you away from questionable decisions like texting your ex at 2 AM or buying those shoes or piece of tech when you have bigger goals. These values are the internal compass that guides us. I think of them as my life’s GPS, helping me to go in the right direction and recalculating when I take a wrong turn. So, the next time you face a questionable choice, consult your core values—they’re like the friends who stop you from karaoke-ing Mariah Carey’s “Emotions” high notes after one too many. Great friends know better, and so do you.
HIDDEN HERSTORIES:
Wangari Maathai's legacy is a testament to the transformative power of environmental stewardship intertwined with a commitment to women's rights. As the first African woman to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, Maathai's fervent dedication to planting trees was not just about combating deforestation; it was a profound act of peace and empowerment.
By mobilizing women to plant over 51 million trees, Maathai not only rejuvenated the Kenyan landscape but also sowed the seeds of empowerment, economic stability, and environmental consciousness across communities. Her belief in the interconnectedness of human and environmental health galvanized a global movement, reminding us that the act of planting a tree is a declaration of hope and a step towards a more sustainable and equitable world.
Maathai's values—respect for nature, belief in the power of collective action, and the pursuit of gender equality—were the guiding stars of her journey. These principles not only regenerated miles of degraded land but also nurtured a new generation of environmental stewards and advocates for women's rights.
CUTURAL FIX:
In recent years, a significant number of Black Americans are returning to the South, driven by a desire to reconnect with the land and the roots of their ancestors. This renaissance of sorts is not just about agriculture; it's about reclaiming heritage, achieving economic empowerment, and nurturing health and sustainability from the ground up.Organizations like the Federation of Southern Cooperatives and the Black Farmers' Network are at the forefront of this movement, providing crucial support, resources, and advocacy to protect and empower Black farmers.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK:
"In times of turmoil, our deepest values guide us." - Michelle Obama
It is when my back is against the wall or the pressure is high that reveals what truly believe. It is up to me to create more space between my back and the wall so that my response is based on true values. It is also my responsibility to work on those values so that they are my default response.
FEEL-GOOD FEATURE:
When thinking about values for ourselves and putting them in the next generation , I recommend reading:
"The Measure of Our Success: A Letter to My Children and Yours" by Marian Wright Edelman - Edelman, founder of the Children's Defense Fund, shares a poignant message through letters to her sons, weaving in lessons of morality, responsibility, and spirituality. The book is a testament to the enduring importance of family and community values, emphasizing a life of service and ethical integrity.
SOUL FOOD FOR THOUGHT:
What does your bank or credit card statement say you value?
It's straightforward to declare our values—prioritizing health, education, or giving back, for instance. Yet, the real measure of our values often shines through in our financial decisions. Review your credit card and bank statements; do they reflect a dedication to your stated ideals, or do they tell a different story? This is not about inducing guilt or promoting frugality. It's an invitation to ensure that the way we spend our money is a mirror reflection of what we genuinely value and treasure.
Your stories, wins, and even those not-so-great moments? I want to hear them all. Reply to this email, drop a comment on our socials, or just send good vibes into the universe.
We're all in this beautiful mess together, and every bit of support counts.
Until next time.....remember your voice matters!
