Note From a Servant Leader: Navigating Life’s Complex Seasons

Hello everyone,

It’s been a while since we last connected, and I deeply appreciate your patience and ongoing support. Life has presented its fair share of joys and challenges, and I want to share these moments with you, as they shape our journey together at The Kindness Network.

Personal Updates: A Year of Growth and Challenges

This past year has been a significant one for my family and me. My middle child has just completed his first year of middle school; meanwhile, my youngest is headed to first grade. On a professional note, I’ve been fortunate to receive a promotion, which has been both challenging and rewarding.

However, alongside these milestones, I’ve faced personal hardships. Last August, I lost my father, and managing his estate has been an ongoing task. Additionally, someone very close to me is battling serious health issues. These experiences have made me realize the importance of giving myself space to grieve and balance my roles as a wife and mother.

Living Our Guiding Principle Through Complex Seasons

At The Kindness Network, we hold a guiding principle close to our hearts:

“In order to genuinely express kindness to others, one must first be kind to themselves.”

Reflecting on the past several months, I see moments where I’ve strayed from this principle. I’ve grappled with a range of emotions, from disappointment and anger to feeling utterly unprepared. My response to past traumas often led me to face challenges alone, which made accepting help more difficult when I needed it most.

In light of these reflections, I decided it was time to breathe new life into The Kindness Network. This decision has reinvigorated my commitment to what I value most—being present, cherishing the gift of time, extending grace, and appreciating the simple joys of life. It reminds me of the importance of the present moment, and being in it.

The Importance of Simplicity and Connection

The stress of the past year often drove me to isolate myself, trying to control everything in a bid to cope. This approach was not only exhausting but also lonely. Recognizing this has helped me to embrace the simplicity of kindness and its profound impact on our well-being.

Looking Forward

I promise not to stay away so long next time. And stay tuned for our new tagline, “Be Kind,” which reflects our evolving journey in kindness. We’re excited about this new phase and believe it will inspire us all to live our principle more fully.

Thank you for joining me on this journey. Your presence in this community strengthens our shared commitment to kindness. As we continue to navigate the complexities of life, let’s remember to extend a gentle hand to ourselves, and those around us.

Wishing you all an amazing day!

In kindness,

Iffie