Notes From The Founder
The Power of Small Steps: Embracing the Journey Together

Dear Survivor,

In the delicate dance of healing, it’s easy to feel like you’re standing still, waiting for a dramatic breakthrough that may never come. I once believed that to truly heal, I needed to conquer vast mountains of trauma all at once, seeking those grand moments of revelation. But what I discovered—sometimes through the gentle whispers of friends and the quiet songs of sparrows outside my window—is that healing often unfolds in the small, tender steps we take each day.

I remember sitting on my bed, surrounded by a jumble of emotions. I had just lost my beloved dog, Perusia, who had been my companion through countless dark nights. Grief felt like a heavy blanket, suffocating me in silence. I thought, “If I can’t find the strength to leap forward, I must not be healing.” But in those quiet moments, as I clutched a warm blanket around me, I started to notice the small shifts in my heart.

One morning, as the sun streamed through my window, I heard the soft chirping of a sparrow. It reminded me of the beauty that still existed in the world. That little bird, so small and seemingly insignificant, was out there finding joy in its morning song. It inspired me to take my first small step—to breathe deeply and let the light in, even if just a little.

I decided to attend a support group, where others gathered to share their stories and struggles. As I walked into that room, my heart raced, and I felt so vulnerable. But as I settled into my chair and listened to the shared experiences of others, I began to feel the weight lift, piece by piece. Each story was a small step—an invitation to open up, to connect, and to heal together. In that space, I learned that my journey was not a solo flight but rather a collective soaring among friends who understood the turbulence of trauma.

Sometimes, it’s the tiniest moments of courage that carry the most weight. When I chose to share my feelings, even if it was just one word or one tear, it felt like I was casting a tiny stone into a still pond. Those ripples spread out, touching not only my heart but the hearts of those around me. They reminded me that vulnerability is not weakness; it’s an act of profound bravery.

As you navigate your healing journey, I encourage you to embrace those small steps. Notice the moments when you take a deep breath instead of succumbing to anxiety. Celebrate the days when you muster the courage to reach out to a friend or simply allow yourself a moment of stillness. Each of these choices is a thread in the tapestry of your recovery, weaving together a narrative of strength and resilience.

Let’s take this journey together, one small step at a time. Like the sparrows that flit through the branches, singing their beautiful songs, may we also find joy in our small victories. Remember, dear survivor, you are enough. Every step you take—no matter how small—is a testament to your journey and a declaration of your courage.

As we honor each moment, let us cherish the beauty in our stories, knowing that the path may twist and turn but always leads us back to hope.

With warmth and compassion,
Kathe'rine 
Founder, Sparrows of Hope