From Pain to Purpose Part 2

Natalie Weaver and Brenda Yoho Author-Speaker came back to the Envision Speakers Series because I wanted to know one more important idea. I was unsure about one thing. In Natalie’s bio, she wrote that she was living her best life now. I was thrilled to read it, and even more excited to hear her speak it. But how could this be given the story she told us when we first met (read From Pain to Purpose to get the full story).?

From Pain to Purpose

In summary, Natalie disclosed just how traumatic her childhood was. She shared her heart-wrenching experiences growing up in an unhealthy environment. This included emotional, sexual, and physical abuse. So, to transition from that to her best life must have taken a lot of energy, effort, and healing. We need to find out how she was able to turn her pain into purpose.

Living Your Best Life Now

Natalie, please share with us how you transitioned your mindset to claim that this is your best life. And Brenda, you're a part of this story, too. So, let's get started.

Natalie, how did you make this transformation into your best life?

Natalie: It started a long time ago. I remember being nine years old when my mother's boyfriend left, and I saw the impact it had on everyone. I told myself that I'd never live like that. I wanted things to be different. While I couldn't change my circumstances as a child, I promised myself that once I had the chance to make my own choices, I'd do something about it. One of the first things I did was enroll in counseling because I knew I needed it. That was part of my promise to do better. To care for others, we have to care for ourselves too. I didn't want to be a hypocrite, especially as a psych nurse. It's essential to practice what you preach. The journey is still challenging, but I didn't grow up with positive role models, except maybe Brenda and a few others.

Dr. Keith McNally: Brenda, can you tell us how you were a part of Natalie's life during this time?

Brenda: Of course, Natalie and I met during middle school and started writing journals for each other. However, we lost touch after Natalie had to leave due to her family's eviction from their home. It was traumatic for her, and we never got to say goodbye. The journals, though, remained a connection between us.

Dr. Keith McNally: Natalie, what happened to those journals when you had to leave your home??

Natalie: I didn't take them with me at first, but I started hiding them because I needed that outlet. Over time, I moved them to my dad's house. It was safe to keep them there.

The Importance of Journaling

Dr. Keith McNally: So, you were in high school, and you still had the journals. How did you manage to survive and maintain your sanity during this time?

Natalie: High school was very different from middle school. I knew that I had to find a way to survive that was less confrontational and self-destructive. I started writing poetry and expressing my emotions through journaling, doodles, and even the occasional venting session on the pages. The journals were a safe space for me to be myself.

Dr. Keith McNally: It sounds like expressing your emotions in the journals was a vital part of your survival during this time. Can you tell us about the turning point when you eventually left that environment?

Natalie: In my senior year of high school, I decided to leave when the opportunity presented itself. I got a job offer from someone I met through church, and I moved out just a few months before turning 18. I left with almost nothing but a strong determination to change my life for the better.

Being Resilient

Dr. Keith McNally: And that's how you began the journey towards what you now call your best life. It's a remarkable story of resilience and determination. Thank you for sharing, Natalie. Brenda, it's incredible how your journals played a part in keeping the connection alive. What was your reaction when you received that letter from Natalie?

Brenda: I received a handwritten letter from Natalie that was touching and heartfelt. She expressed her gratitude for the support she received from our journals and how they had helped her throughout the years. She also mentioned her desire to meet me. Her words deeply moved me, and of course, I was more than willing to meet with her.

Dr. Keith McNally: Natalie, you were nervous about meeting Brenda after all those years. Can you tell us more about that?

Natalie: I was indeed nervous to meet Brenda, even though I reached out to her. It's a powerful moment when you meet someone who has such an impact on your life. I was scared but also excited to reconnect.

Indeed, Natalie Weaver, you took the journey many people fear to take – the journey inward to resolve grief, pain, and turmoil – and to make it through until you found victory within yourself. Thank you for sharing your story with all of us!?

Key Takeaways

1. Embracing Compassion and Eliminating Judgment: Brenda highlighted the importance of reducing judgment in our lives, especially regarding people's mental health. She encouraged us to pay attention to what was not being said, emphasizing that not all challenges are visible.
2. Natalie added to this sentiment, stressing the significance of kindness. She believes that a small act of kindness can have a profound impact on someone's day and even their life. Tomorrow is always a fresh opportunity to make a positive change. She also urged parents to support their children, allowing them to learn from their own experiences.
3. Living Your Best Life: The conversation centered around the idea that living your best life doesn't necessarily mean a perfect life. It's about finding ways to cope with the ups and downs, understanding that the good days far outweigh the bad ones. Brenda and Natalie emphasized the importance of self-care, finding joy in life, and spreading kindness to make the world a better place.
4. For Brenda, living her best life means helping and supporting children, ensuring they feel safe and valued. She recognizes the power of a single person to make a significant difference. Brenda expressed her desire to see more individuals like Natalie make positive contributions.
5. Natalie believes in embracing every new day as a chance for change and advises others to do the same. Her mantra is, "Tomorrow is another chance; tomorrow is another day." She emphasizes that a rough day doesn't equate to a bad life.
6. Parting Thoughts: The key takeaway from our conversation is the power of compassion, understanding, and kindness. We can all make a difference in someone's life through our words and actions. Remember, not everything is visible on the surface, and one small act of kindness can have a ripple effect.

Let's challenge ourselves to reduce judgment and be compassionate, both in our personal and professional lives. Every day is an opportunity to be a part of the solution to make a positive change in the lives of those around us.

About the Author

As an author, podcast host, and purpose-driven/leadership coach, my goal is to help you to redefine your life, get out of your “stuck” situation, and explore your world so you can create real purpose for your life. My book, Walking the Path – A Leader’s Journey is a must-read for anyone looking to create real impact and meaning for themselves and others. I have a heart for those who find life intolerable and frustrating (even scary) because I’ve been there. My goal is to have the conversations with each of you so that you feel appreciated, valued, and secure in yourself. Talk soon!?

-????????? Dr. Keith McNallyally