Rebirth

The past few weeks have been a whirlwind of loss, emotion, growth, and change. Rebirth is the best way to describe the outcome for me. Without going into a very long, detailed account of how it came about and all the signs and triggers that fell like dominoes in front of me, I will say that I came out the other end on a new plane full of positivity, renewed faith, light, love, and hope.

With the help of a few unknowing friends, I have a great grasp on the true definition and calling for my life, though I’m still not sure exactly how I’m supposed to use it. I’m not worried – that will come in time. I’m starting with Free Hugs Birmingham for now, something I’ve always wanted to do. I’ve got a few more projects along those same lines cooking in my head and heart and can’t wait to share them with you.

This past weekend was spent at the annual women’s conference, reCreate, at Church of the Highlands. The conference is usually a time of surrender for me, where I come broken, in pieces, bawling my eyes out, needing love and healing. This year I was in a great place going in (thanks to the past few weeks) and had a completely different experience. I took away all positive affirmations from the speakers, writing down action items and things to continue on the journey I am already carving out for myself.

During the conference I ran into two friends and had the opportunity to sit down and talk with each of them separately for a good bit. Talking with Erin about her story and sharing mine with her, it was obvious to me that we were meant to meet up that day. Her story resonates with me on so many levels (I’ll let you read it for yourself here) and I can relate to it from many different perspectives. She has my utmost respect, love, and admiration for what she’s been through, what she’s decided, and what she continues to battle everyday. My favorite part of the conversation? After telling her what I want to do and sharing my fear and doubt with her, she simply said, “Just show up. Seriously, just show up, Sherri. He’ll do the rest.” I don’t think I’ll ever forget that and it may be my mantra for the rest of my life or any time I get nervous. Thank you for the life-changing words, Erin.

Later that day, I ran into Mitzi during a break, another friend who I don’t know very well, but have always enjoyed being around and looked up to. Running into her was a like a breath a fresh air – her smile lights up a room. She was there on happenstance and again, fate intervened. She told me the story of how she came to be at the conference (a great story!) and I shared with her my future plans and she summed it up perfectly when she said, “You just want to love people. And there are so many people that just need or want love.” That’s it! So, that’s my plan and that’s my mission – I’m going to start small and grow big, but that’s what I’m going to do….I’m just going to lift people up, love people and love on people. I know not everyone gets me and I’m not everyone’s cup of tea, and that’s ok. I’m just here to love you….whoever you are….starting with free hugs. And then my Free Love table…also coming soon to a corner near you.

reCreate was amazing. It reminded me that we’re not here for ourselves. We’re here for each other. I’m here for you. And while I want to make a difference, I’m going to start by loving you. Just loving you.