Giving It Forward—Join the Campaign!

In loving memory of my sister, Jerri Lynn, who fought many life battles and still found ways to give…

Please join me in the 2nd Annual Giving It Forward campaign. This is not a fundraiser but an awareness-raiser. In a world that places so much emphasis on self-awareness, others-awareness is also needed. It is about connection and reaching out in simple ways. Even when we feel empty—like we have nothing to give—getting outside ourselves has a way of filling our hearts. The Power of Compassion in Recovery

Giving It Forward is about finding ways we can use our interactions for good. Words of encouragement can calm a doubting heart. A heart-felt, yet simple, thank-you can re-energize a tired worker. Compassionate listening can help a friend feel a renewed sense of worth.

Sometimes recognizing and being grateful for the gifts that others have to give can lift a sinking soul back into the light.

Open Hearts

On my own healing journey—when I was able to accept the realities of the trauma I experienced—my  heart became keenly aware of the kindnesses others showed me during the painful parts of my childhood. The love and nurture I received from others helped me to see possibilities of good in life and in myself. I was not rescued from the trauma, but rescued from its full impact.

Their kindness broke through the walls around my heart. I could see more clearly the strength that comes with connection. George MacDonald said “it is by loving and not by being loved that one can come nearest to the soul of another.” George MacDonald Anthology, C.S. Lewis We all need to be loved, but to internalize that love, we need to learn to give as well as receive. It is in this full circle of giving and receiving that we find wholeness.

It is in connection that we find a sense of purpose and expand our ability to create I life we can thrive in. Giving and receiving with open hearts, allows the good pieces of life to settle into the deepest parts of our souls. And giving back with an open heart enlarges our souls and fills the voids in our hearts with joy.

Giving It Forward

I invite you to join the Giving It Forward campaign. But don’t wait until you have time to do the “big” thing. Our lives are built on small moments. In the small moments, hearts can be touched. I love how Emily Dickenson put it “Sometimes when I consider the tremendous consequences of little things—a chance word, a tap on the shoulder, or wink of an eye—I am tempted to think there are no little things.” http://attention-to-little-things

There are as many ways of giving it forward as there are people on the planet. No two of us are the same and we all have gifts—ways to touch others for good—that can enrich our lives as well as those around us. So today, reach out and let someone know you’re thinking of them.

We can be a force for good. Acknowledge the impact for good others have had on our lives, and Give It Forward.

About Tammy René

As a survivor of childhood sexual and physical abuse in a cult, Tammy René brings her personal experience of overcoming trauma to audiences to inspire hope and understanding. Her messages offer victims of childhood trauma keys to healing, and insight and understanding about ways to help lift those who struggle on their healing journey. She captivates and inspires audiences with her intimate storytelling, inviting them to experience with her the highs and lows of her journey. Her stories dismantle the stigma of mental illness and show that “regardless of the pains and heartache we are called to go through, all of us can find light and hope, ultimately thriving in a life that is uniquely our own.” She is passionate about helping others discover and use their potential for building a life they love. Tammy hosts the podcast series, Survivor Shift: Moving from Surviving to Thriving where she interviews others about their own healing journey.

3 Comments

  1. Cynthia Lee on November 27, 2024 at 8:52 am

    Dear Tammy,
    What beautiful words to motivate us to give whatever love and encouragement we can to those who might feel forgotten; especially this time of year.
    Big things can feel intimidating. But all of us can do small things that shouldn’t be underestimated.
    ❤️ Cindy

    • Tammy René on November 28, 2024 at 11:23 am

      Absolutely! “Out of small things proceedeth that which is great!”

  2. Más Christ - Build on the Light on December 11, 2024 at 1:39 pm

    […] Words of encouragement can calm a doubting heart. A heart-felt, yet simple, thank-you can re-energize a tired worker. Compassionate listening can help a friend feel a renewed sense of worth. Giving It Forward—Join the Campaign! […]

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