The journey of healing is not an easy one; nor is it one that is recognized as important by many in our society. For some people, the concept of healing itself seems selfish, indulgent and/or intangible. There is a general attitude throughout our society to just get over it, whatever the IT is. Others view social change as more imperative than personal healing, and some even unconsciously believe that it is “right” to sacrifice themselves for the greater good. At the crossroads of these different ideas, is the belief that the personal is political; that it is in addressing the personal life in its social and historical context that we can create lasting change. This is the kind of transformative healing that occurs at Shakti Rising. We know that the most powerful actions we take are the daily choices we make about our bodies, our health, our well being, that of our families and ultimately, our environment.

The program at Shakti Rising embodies the Buddhist principle that we must simultaneously take hold and let go. Apprentices (participants in our program) learn to love themselves while loving others. They let go of old, self-destructive behaviors and addictions while taking hold of new, positive ways of living. While they are facing the truth about their pasts, which is often painful and ugly, they are also responsible for creating what they want in the present. They are encouraged to dream of their futures, and to be totally present in this moment. Over time, they uncover the gifts in the lessons of their lives, and then they share their wisdom with other young women through acts of service such as peer mentoring.

Audre Lord said, “When I dare to be powerful, to use my strength in the service of my vision, then it becomes less and less important whether I am afraid”. The young women in our program dare to be powerful; they dare to believe in themselves despite all their struggles. They do so knowing that we believe in them, that I believe each and everyone of them is brilliant, capable, deserving and lovable. I believe even when they feel that they do not, or cannot. It is with the strength of this faith, this love, and this courage, that each of us will find our treasure, our hearts, and this will indeed, transform our world.

Blessings to you.

Shannon Thompson
Executive Director