AND RECEIVE YOUR BOUNTY!

Spring is here, and with that comes the proverbial “spring cleaning,” releasing the cobwebs nesting in the corners, washing windows to allow the sunlight to shine through – all the things that say farewell to the winter.

Refreshing our homes is our immediate thought when we discuss spring cleaning, but I'm taking a new approach this year Instead of the home, let's refresh ourselves. Let's face it; it's been a long winter. The temperatures may have been above average atmospherically, but the cultural thermometer has plunged into the Arctic range.

How so, you ask? The hatred spewed at so many members of our collective communities leaves me anxious, angry, and perplexed. As a self-proclaimed news junkie for my entire life, I now find myself straying away from the news, hiding from the angst of the world because I don't see a resolution at hand.

So, to clear out the cobwebs in my mind, I'm renewing my faith in humanity by seeking and focusing on the people and things working to make life better for everyone. Gratefully my role here at Phenomenal Woman affords me the opportunity to engage with some fabulous women doing just that!

In this edition, we meet Heather Clayton Terry, a woman who embodies the best parts of our community. As the Philanthropy Consultant for the Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation, her job is to improve the lives of others through giving. However, it's more than a job to Heather - it's a calling. To learn more about this triple threat, you must read the cover story. The feature doesn't highlight the third throng of her triple threat, so I'll share a little here. This diverse woman is a singer-songwriter in addition to her in, and for the community.

On a personal note, I will refresh my view of myself and, in the words of one of my mentors and friends, Yvonne Pointer, “I'm going to do it afraid.” What does that look like? I'm no longer going to allow doubt, fear, and “imposter syndrome” to control me and my actions. As a young girl, my mother told me I could achieve anything I set my mind to, but over the years, I have given those internal voices too much power. Today, I will recognize and utilize my strengths instead of “tearing myself down,” as a good friend recently said I was doing. The road has never been easy, but I've persevered, and I vow to continue to move upward, and I ask that you pray for my strength during this rebirth.

Our feature on Ta'Jahnae Buchanan illustrates the success we can achieve when we work through fear, doubt, and just plain old hard stuff. As a 17-year-old high school graduate, Ta'Jahnae embarked on a career path she knew nothing about but thought it would be interesting. That level of curiosity and her determination allowed her to make history despite wanting to quit a time or two because it was “hard.” I hope you will read our feature on Buchanan and draw on her determination as you work to achieve your goals.

After renewing and refreshing our views, I hope we will all receive our bounty. This process is similar to changing your perspective when taking a photo You may have to change the lens or reposition yourself to get the best angle, yet the subject stays the same. Columnist Marsha Walker Eastwood offers insight on altering your view to turn your hobbyor interests into a profitable small business.

An entrepreneur since childhood, Eastwood uses her experiences in following her passion as a guide for you to do the same. Her words should serve as confirmation that all dreams don't become a reality, but if you allow yourself to continue dreaming, you will find success. It is also a good read for parents of enterprising young people. In the beginning, that project your daughter wants to turn into her first business may not sound plausible to you, but if it is safe and reasonable, give her the support she needs to pursue it while learning valuable lessons. You never know; she might be the next Kamaria Warren. At the tender age of seven, Warren, with the assistance of her mom, graphic designer Shaunice Sasser created Brown Girl Stationery™. The need for a greeting card representative of Kamaria, led to the birth of an entire company

While this is only one example, you get the point - dream and follow your passions.

Until next time, enjoy this edition, but most importantly, be true to yourself and if you need to Renew Refresh, and Receive your bounty!