Blog

Praying: A Journey to Peace and Forgiveness Hey friend,It’s time for us to sit down with a cup of coffee and have a heart-to-heart. Today, I want to talk about something big: forgiveness and finding peace. Have you ever heard the song Praying by Kesha? It speaks so deeply to the journey of healing, and I think we can draw a lot from it as we think about what our own vision of peace looks like. So, let’s break it down together. --- 1. A Vision of PeaceIn Praying, Kesha says:"I hope you're somewhere prayin', prayin'I hope your soul is changin', changin'..." This line always makes me think about the vision of peace we hold for ourselves, even after we’ve been hurt. For survivors, peace can feel like a far-off dream, but it’s something we deserve. Our vision of peace doesn’t have to include anyone else—it’s a personal journey, one that’s just for us. Think about what peace looks like for you. Maybe it’s a moment of stillness or the freedom to just be, without the weight of your past pulling you back. --- 2. The Power of ForgivenessForgiveness is hard, and it’s not something that happens in a moment. Kesha captures this feeling in another line:"Some things, only God can forgive..." This reminds us that forgiveness isn’t about letting others off the hook; it’s about releasing ourselves from the hold that pain has on us. We don’t have to carry the anger, the hurt, or the burden any longer. Forgiveness is a gift we give to ourselves, a way to reclaim our peace. And while it may take time, that’s okay—your healing journey is yours to take at your own pace. --- 3. Moving ForwardAnother powerful line from the song is:"I'm proud of who I amNo more monsters, I can breathe again..." This is such a reminder that moving forward is possible. It’s about recognizing our strength and deciding that we won’t let what happened define us. We all have monsters—those memories or people who hurt us—but part of healing is realizing that they don’t have power over us anymore. When you’re ready, think about what moving forward looks like for you. Maybe it’s finding new ways to take care of yourself or setting boundaries that protect your peace. --- 4. Strength in HealingFinally, this line captures the essence of rising above the pain:"I can make it on my own, and I don't need you..." Healing is about stepping into our strength, even when we feel broken. You’ve always had that strength inside of you. Every small step you take, whether it’s forgiving yourself or letting go of the past, is proof of how strong you really are. We don’t have to rely on anyone else to validate our worth. You are enough, just as you are, and you’re capable of creating a life filled with peace and joy. --- 5. A New Vision for HealingAs you sip your coffee and reflect, think about this: what’s your vision of healing? What does peace look like in your life? Just like Kesha’s song, your healing is a process, and it’s okay to take it one day at a time. There’s no rush. You’re allowed to sit with your feelings, to feel all the things you need to feel, and to let yourself heal in your own time. Praying is a reminder that we can rise from the ashes of our pain and find peace, even if it takes time. Let’s keep that vision in our hearts as we move forward together. --- As we close this conversation, remember—you’re not alone in this journey. Healing isn’t easy, but every step you take is a step toward the peace you deserve. With love,Your friend at Sparrows of Hope

Praying: A Journey to Peace and Forgiveness

Woman lighting candle at wooden table in living room, closeup

Turning Darkness into Light: A Journey of Healing, Like Making a Candle Hey friend, Sometimes, when we’ve experienced trauma or been through tough times, we get stuck in the "what if" moments—the "I should have known better" or "I should have done this differently" thoughts. It’s natural to feel this way. But the truth is, we can’t change the past, and dwelling on it doesn’t serve us. Just like a candle, the process of healing involves turning something dark into something beautiful and bright. Let’s think about making a candle. It starts in the dark, right? You take wax, maybe it’s a little messy or raw at first. But with intention, heat, and patience, it transforms into something that can bring light into a room. The same goes for us. Our experiences—whether they were painful or challenging—are part of our story, but they don’t define us. We can choose to take what we’ve been through and create something new. Here’s how it might look if we compare healing to making a candle: 1. The Wax (Raw, Unformed) The wax represents where we start: raw, maybe a little cracked, or unsure. We can think of this as the part of us that’s been through pain, hurt, and confusion. But just like the wax, we’re not finished yet. There’s potential for something beautiful. 2. The Wick (Our Core Strength) The wick is the center of the candle, and just like that wick, we each have a core strength inside of us. It might be hard to find at first, but with time, we can start to light that wick with self-love, self-forgiveness, and care. Our inner light is always there, even when it feels dim. 3. The Heat (Healing and Patience) The heat is what helps the wax melt and form into a candle. This is the hard part of healing—it’s not immediate, and it can feel overwhelming. But through patience, support, and care, the healing process melts away the hardness, allowing us to reshape ourselves. 4. The Light (Our Transformation) After the wax melts and the wick burns, we finally have a candle that gives off light. This is you—the person who has faced darkness but has found a way to shine through it. The light you give off doesn’t erase the darkness, but it transforms it. It shows others that even through the hardest moments, there’s hope. The process of healing is similar. It doesn’t happen overnight, and it takes time to allow the darkness to melt and transform into something bright. But the key is this: you can shine. Your past doesn’t have to define your future. The struggles you’ve been through can become part of the beauty of who you are today. So next time you’re feeling stuck in regret or the weight of past mistakes, think of the candle-making process. You can create light from darkness, and in the end, that light is not just for you—it’s a beacon for others too. Remember, just like a candle that’s been made with care and intention, you are worthy of shining bright. You have the strength to turn any past pain into light, and the world is waiting for your glow. With love, Your friend at Sparrows of Hope

Turning Darkness into Light: A Journey of Healing, Like Making a Candle

Starting a New Month with Love and Care: A Friendly Check-In Hey friend, As we enter a brand new month together, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the important things we've discussed and remind you of the small, yet powerful steps we can take to nurture ourselves. It’s so easy to get caught up in the hustle of life, but this is the perfect time to check in with ourselves and set our intentions for the month ahead. Boundaries are still a big topic we’ve explored. Whether you’re caring for others or navigating complicated relationships, it’s so important to protect your peace by setting healthy boundaries. Think of them like guardrails—they help keep us safe while allowing us to give and receive love in healthy, balanced ways. You are so worthy of boundaries that nurture your soul. We also talked about heartbreak—the tough moments when things don’t go as planned or we experience the pain of loss. It’s natural to feel hurt, and it’s okay to give yourself time to heal. Just like a movie, your story continues to unfold. Breakups and setbacks are not the end of the road; they are part of your journey, and with time, you will heal and grow stronger. Be kind to yourself during this process, and don’t hesitate to try new things—whether it’s cooking a comforting meal or diving into a new hobby. Every small step counts. And of course, self-care was a key focus. It’s so easy to forget ourselves when we’re busy caring for others. But self-care is just as important, if not more so. Whether it’s drinking enough water, getting enough sleep, or simply taking a few minutes to breathe and relax, these small acts of self-love make a world of difference. Remember, taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. As we move forward into this new month, I want to encourage you to check in with yourself regularly. Ask yourself how you’re feeling, what you need, and what boundaries are necessary to stay grounded. Take small moments to reflect and make sure you’re still nurturing your heart, mind, and body. It’s okay to feel unsure at times, but know that you’re on the right path and you’re doing great. This new month is full of possibilities. Let’s embrace it with open hearts, knowing that we deserve all the peace, love, and care we give to others. You’re not alone on this journey. Here’s to a fresh start, a new month, and all the strength that lies ahead. 💛 With love, Your friend at Sparrows of Hope

Starting a New Month with Love and Care: A Friendly Check-In

Dutch food a dish of meatballs gehaktballen served with mashed potatoes closeup on the plate. Horizontal top view

Finding Comfort in the Kitchen: A Heart-Healing Meal for Hard Days Hey friend, When we’re going through heartbreak, sometimes we need the little things to bring us comfort. For me, cooking has always been a soothing way to take care of myself—especially when the meal is warm, nourishing, and simple. One of my favorite comforting meals is scalloped potatoes with salmon patties. It's a meal that reminds me to slow down, savor the process, and find peace in the little things, even when the heart feels heavy. If you’re looking for something easy to make during those tough days, this recipe might be just what you need. Here’s how you can put together this meal and bring a little warmth to your table: Scalloped Potatoes Ingredients: 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced 2 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons flour 1 ½ cups milk 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar works great) Salt and pepper to taste Instructions: 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). 2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, making a roux. 3. Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted. 4. Layer the thinly sliced potatoes in a greased baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the potatoes, making sure each layer is covered. 5. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and the potatoes are tender. 6. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Salmon Patties Ingredients: 1 can (14-15 oz) salmon, drained and flaked 1 egg ½ cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers 1 tablespoon minced onion 1 tablespoon lemon juice Salt and pepper to taste 2 tablespoons oil (for frying) Instructions: 1. In a bowl, combine the salmon, egg, breadcrumbs, minced onion, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. 2. Mix well and form into 4-5 patties. 3. Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown. 4. Serve alongside the scalloped potatoes for a comforting, balanced meal. --- A Little Nourishment for Body and Heart Just like heartbreak, healing takes time—and so does making a comforting meal. Both require care, patience, and a little bit of creativity. As you cook, take a moment to reflect on how far you’ve come, even in the midst of pain. Preparing food is an act of love for yourself, and sometimes that’s exactly what we need after a tough breakup: a reminder that we are worth the time and care it takes to heal. Breakups can feel like the end of a story we thought would continue, but it’s okay to start writing a new chapter for yourself. Try something new to shift your focus—whether it’s watching a funny movie, learning a new recipe (like this one!), or even picking up a hobby like making candles. You deserve joy, even on the hardest days. And remember, if you need extra support, don’t hesitate to reach out. Talk to a counselor if you can, or check in with community-based programs or helplines that offer a safe space to share what you’re going through. If you’re ever feeling lost or need someone to talk to, you can call the National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for support. You’re never alone in this. With love and hope, Your friend at Sparrows of Hope

Finding Comfort in the Kitchen: A Heart-Healing Meal for Hard Days

Setting Boundaries: What Caregiving Taught Me About Protecting My Peace Hey friend, Today, I want to talk to you about something that took me a long time to understand—setting boundaries, especially when it comes to caregiving and dealing with difficult family dynamics. As many of you know, I’ve been a caregiver for my mom for a long time. People often ask me, “Are you taking care of yourself?” and for a long time, I didn’t understand the question. Honestly, I was so focused on caring for her that I didn’t know what self-care was or even how to prioritize it. I didn’t realize that, as a caregiver, I still had to care for myself in order to be able to give the best care to others. It wasn’t until later that I realized the importance of setting boundaries—not just for my own well-being, but to protect my peace. The Importance of Boundaries It’s easy to get caught up in caring for others, especially when you love them deeply, but without boundaries, we risk losing ourselves. The truth is, whether we come from a difficult family dynamic or have experienced toxic relationships, we must set boundaries to protect ourselves from being drained or hurt. Think about this: when you go to a restaurant, there are boundaries in place. Some places have dress codes—no shoes, no service. In fine dining, there’s a higher level of care and respect, and the atmosphere is different from a fast-food restaurant. The boundaries in each place help define the experience. In our lives, we need to set similar boundaries. We need boundaries that respect our worth and our energy, especially in our relationships. When we create clear, healthy boundaries, we’re creating an environment that helps us feel valued, understood, and cared for. Fast Food Boundaries vs. Fine Dining Boundaries Some relationships and situations can feel like fast food—quick, demanding, and draining. People may ask a lot of us without giving back or understanding what we need. It's easy to fall into the trap of giving without receiving, thinking it’s just part of being there for others. But just like at a fast food joint, the energy is rushed, and we don't always feel respected. On the other hand, fine dining relationships are built on respect and care. They require intention, understanding, and time. We need to create spaces for these kinds of relationships in our lives—where our boundaries are honored, and we feel valued. --- Empowering Yourself to Set Boundaries Setting boundaries doesn’t make you selfish; it makes you safe. It’s a way of protecting your energy and ensuring that your needs are met, not just for your role as a caregiver, but for yourself. Boundaries are a form of self-respect. If setting boundaries feels new or difficult, start with one small change. Maybe it’s learning to say “no” when you’re asked to take on too much, or carving out time for yourself each day to recharge. You don’t have to explain or justify your boundaries—they are there to protect your peace and well-being. Remember, you deserve to create a life where you are honored, where your time and energy are respected, and where you can thrive in relationships that support your healing and growth. And if you’re struggling to set boundaries on your own, don’t hesitate to reach out to a counselor or support group. There’s no shame in seeking help—in fact, it’s a courageous step toward creating the healthy boundaries you need. If you ever need someone to talk to, there are always resources available. The National Helpline is a great place to start: 1-800-662-HELP (4357). You are worthy of care, respect, and the boundaries that will help you live your best life. With love and understanding,Your friend at Sparrows of Hope ---

Setting Boundaries: What Caregiving Taught Me About Protecting My Peace

A beautiful carnival mask with black feather and gold decor

When Setbacks Feel Like Starting Over: Cleansing and Creating a New Mask Hey friend, You know, I was thinking a lot about something that we don’t often talk about, especially in the journey of healing from trauma. Sometimes, we feel like we’ve made so much progress, and then—out of nowhere—a flashback hits, or we feel ourselves slipping back into old emotions, like we’re starting all over again. It’s tough. It can feel like you’ve taken two steps forward, but now you’re feeling like you’ve taken ten steps back. Trust me, I get it. Healing isn’t a straight line—it’s more like a winding road with some unexpected bumps along the way. But here’s the thing: those setbacks don’t define your progress. You are not going backwards; you’re learning to navigate and respond to those difficult moments with more strength than before. It’s just part of the process, and while it may feel frustrating, it doesn’t erase all the work you’ve done. Let’s talk about something that might help explain this—facials. You know, when you put on a face mask to cleanse your skin? It’s a ritual to refresh, to clear away all the dirt and stress that builds up over time. When we go through tough moments, emotional or otherwise, it’s like our minds and hearts need a cleansing too. The flashbacks or emotions that come up may feel like they’re clouding your sense of progress. But just like you would cleanse your face to feel renewed, you can cleanse your heart and mind of those negative, overwhelming feelings too. The Mask We Wear And then there’s the mask. So often, we wear a mask to protect ourselves. We put on a face that says, “I’m okay,” even when we don’t feel okay inside. It’s a survival mechanism—something we do to shield ourselves from the world, or to try to prevent judgment from others. But sometimes, we can get stuck wearing that mask for too long. And it doesn’t always protect us; sometimes, it keeps us hidden from the truth of what we’re feeling. We don’t need to wear that mask of shame anymore. We don’t need to hide behind it, pretending that everything is perfect, when inside we might be struggling. It’s okay to take off that mask and be vulnerable, especially when we’re experiencing those emotional setbacks. Creating a New Mask: One of Healing, Strength, and Grace Here’s the truth, my friend: you get to decide the mask you wear. Even when the weight of trauma feels heavy, you can choose to wear a new mask—not one of shame, but one that shows your healing, your strength, and your grace. Maybe it’s not a physical mask you put on, but a new approach to how you deal with those emotions. Think of this mask as a symbol of how you want to face the world even after a setback—how you can move forward with hope, even in the midst of difficulty. You may need to take things slow, you may need to take a break, and that’s okay. But remember, healing doesn’t mean you’re perfect. It means you’re growing, and it’s all part of the journey. A Friendly Reminder: Setbacks Aren’t Failures So if you’re feeling like you’ve hit a wall or are struggling with something from the past, don’t see it as starting over. You’re still moving forward. Just like that fresh facial treatment you give yourself, it’s okay to clean off the emotional buildup and start again—no shame, no judgment. It’s a new day, a new moment. The past is in the past. What matters now is how you respond—and choosing to put on a mask of healing instead of one of shame. When you face those setbacks, remind yourself that you're still healing, still growing, and you are still worthy of all the goodness that’s ahead. If the emotional weight ever feels too heavy or those setbacks are hard to process on your own, please know it’s okay to reach out. Counseling can be a safe space to work through those feelings and process the trauma with someone who can support you. If seeing a counselor isn’t an option right now, there are amazing community-based programs and resources available to help you. Don’t hesitate to reach out to others—you don’t have to carry this burden alone. If you ever feel like you need someone to talk to, please call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673). They’re there to support you. You’re not alone in this. With love and grace,Your friend at Sparrows of Hope

Blogs

Praying: A Journey to Peace and Forgiveness

Turning Darkness into Light: A Journey of Healing, Like M...

Starting a New Month with Love and Care: A Friendly Check-In

Finding Comfort in the Kitchen: A Heart-Healing Meal for ...

Setting Boundaries: What Caregiving Taught Me About Prote...

When Setbacks Feel Like Starting Over: Cleansing and Crea...