I’m excited to announce that Episode 2 of my Kindle Vella series Beauty In The Brokenness is now live! This new episode, titled No Blueprint for Survival, dives even deeper into the complexities of navigating life’s toughest moments—when the path ahead isn’t clear, and survival feels like it’s all that’s left.

In No Blueprint for Survival, we explore the raw, uncharted territory that comes with confronting life’s hardest challenges. There’s no guide, no clear direction—just the human spirit, broken yet resilient, pushing through the unknown. This episode is about discovering strength in the chaos, and finding beauty even when the way forward isn’t clear.

If you haven’t already, Episode 1, Shattered Silence, went live last Wednesday and is the perfect introduction to the series. It sets the stage for what’s to come, revealing how silence can be both a comfort and a burden when facing pain and brokenness. You can catch up on Episode 1 here.

I’m so grateful for the love and support the series has received so far, and I can’t wait for you to dive into Episode 2. I promise you, this journey of healing and growth will challenge and inspire in ways that only brokenness can reveal.

Be sure to follow along, share your thoughts, and stay tuned for the next chapter!

Let’s face it—we’ve all been there. Staring at the ceiling late at night, consumed by thoughts of what could go wrong. Worrying about situations beyond our control can feel like a natural response to life’s uncertainties. But the truth is, worry is a thief. It robs us of peace, adds to our stress, and keeps us stuck in a cycle of fear instead of moving forward.

When we worry, we’re essentially living in a future that hasn’t even happened yet. We create mental scenarios and focus on what could go wrong rather than embracing what’s right in front of us. But here’s the thing—worry doesn’t change the outcome. It doesn’t solve the problem. Instead, it drains our energy, clouds our judgment, and amplifies our stress.

What if, instead of worrying, we decided to take a step back and reflect on what we can actually control? Worrying won’t resolve the issue, but being proactive about what we can do—however small—shifts our focus from helplessness to empowerment. And where we can’t take action? That’s where trust comes in. Trust in the process, trust in timing, and trust in God’s plan.

When we let go of worry, we make space for peace. That doesn’t mean life’s challenges suddenly disappear, but it means we can face them with a clearer mind and a calmer heart. Next time worry starts creeping in, ask yourself: Is this something I can control? If the answer is yes, take action. If not, release it.

Worrying won’t resolve anything, but faith and focus can. Stress less, trust more, and allow yourself to live in the present—because that’s where life happens.

Don’t Stop. Don’t Settle. Keep Stepping.

#NoMoreWorrying #PeaceOverFear #Heal4Real #MindfulLiving #StressLess

Desperation—it’s a word that many of us don’t like to admit we’ve experienced, but it’s something we’ve all felt at one point or another. It creeps in during the hardest moments, when life feels heavy, and when hope seems far out of reach. It’s the feeling of wanting something so deeply that you’re willing to do anything for it, yet feeling powerless to make it happen.

For me, desperation has shown up at different stages of my life, often when I felt the least prepared to handle it. When I faced childhood trauma, loss, or times when it felt like my faith was being tested beyond measure, desperation would find a way to settle in, filling me with fear and uncertainty.

But what I’ve come to realize is that while desperation is uncomfortable and often overwhelming, it’s also one of the most honest emotions we can experience. It’s raw. It’s real. And if we allow it to, desperation can be a catalyst for change.

When Desperation Hits Hard

Desperation often strikes when we feel backed into a corner, with no way out. For me, one of those moments came after the loss of my firstborn son. I remember feeling as though the weight of that pain would break me, and for a while, it nearly did. I was desperate for answers, desperate for relief, and desperate to feel whole again.

It’s in these moments that we often feel the most powerless, like life is happening to us, and we have no say in the matter. Desperation feeds on that powerlessness. It whispers lies that tell us we’re not strong enough, that our situation is hopeless, and that there’s no way forward.

But here’s the thing—desperation, as hard as it is, is also a moment of reckoning. It’s a moment when we’re forced to confront the things we’ve been avoiding, and we have a choice: let it defeat us, or let it drive us.

Desperation as a Turning Point

In my own journey, I’ve learned that desperation can be a turning point if we allow it to be. It’s in the moments when we feel like we have nothing left that we find out what we’re truly made of. Desperation has the power to push us toward healing, growth, and transformation, but only if we’re willing to face it head-on.

After losing my son, I was desperate for healing—not just for the physical loss, but for all the emotional scars I had been carrying for years. That desperation led me to a choice. I could either remain stuck, allowing my pain to keep me bitter, or I could take the steps to heal for real. That’s where my journey to #Heal4Real began. It was out of desperation that I wrote Highway to Healing, and it was out of desperation that I launched Showering Seeds of Growth, my coaching business dedicated to helping others heal and grow.

The truth is, if it weren’t for the moments of desperation in my life, I wouldn’t be where I am today. Desperation forced me to dig deep, to face my pain, and to find strength I didn’t know I had.

Turning Desperation into Determination

So, how do we turn desperation into something powerful? How do we move from feeling lost to feeling driven?

First, it’s important to acknowledge the desperation for what it is. Don’t hide from it. Don’t pretend it doesn’t exist. Feel it, but don’t let it control you. Desperation is a signal that something in your life needs to change, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. In fact, it can be a powerful motivator for growth.

Next, shift your perspective. Instead of seeing desperation as a sign of weakness, view it as an opportunity. What is this feeling trying to teach you? What are you so desperate for, and what steps can you take, even small ones, to begin moving toward that goal?

Finally, lean on your support system. Desperation can make us feel isolated, but we don’t have to navigate it alone. Whether it’s a close friend, a mentor, a therapist, or a coach, having someone to lean on during these moments can make all the difference. In my journey, I’ve found strength not only in my own inner resolve but in the community of people who have supported me along the way.

Desperation Isn’t the End—It’s a Beginning

If you’re in a season of desperation right now, know that it’s not the end of your story. In fact, it may just be the beginning of a new chapter—one where you reclaim your power, heal your wounds, and move forward with a renewed sense of purpose.

Desperation can be a force that tears us down, but it can also be the spark that drives us to rise above. The key is to not let it consume you. Let it push you to grow, to change, and to heal for real.

Remember, it’s okay to feel desperate. It’s okay to admit that things aren’t perfect. What matters is how you choose to respond to that desperation. Will you let it defeat you, or will you let it propel you into a new season of growth?

Whatever you choose, just know that you are stronger than you think. And even in your most desperate moments, you have the power to turn things around. Healing is possible. Growth is possible. Transformation is possible.

It all starts with acknowledging the desperation and deciding that it won’t define you—it will drive you.

Don’t Stop. Don’t Settle. Keep Stepping.

In life, understanding your “Why” is crucial. It serves as the compass that helps you navigate through the challenges, uncertainty, and even the triumphs. Without it, we’re often left wandering through life without direction, unsure of where we’re going or why we’re even moving in the first place. But when you know your “Why,” every step has purpose, every decision has weight, and every obstacle becomes a stepping stone rather than a roadblock.

For me, my “Why” became clear when I made the decision to heal—really heal. After years of carrying unresolved pain and trauma, I realized I had a choice to make. I could continue to show up bitter for my family, weighed down by what I hadn’t yet confronted, or I could choose to heal and show up better for them. My family, my children, my husband—they deserved the best version of me, and I deserved that too.

Why I Chose to #Heal4Real

Making the decision to #Heal4Real wasn’t just a moment—it was a commitment. I was tired of simply surviving. I wanted to thrive. I wanted to be a better mother, wife, and woman, free from the baggage of past pain. I realized that if I didn’t do the work to heal, my pain would bleed into the lives of the people I love the most. That was my “Why.” I wanted to break the cycle and create a legacy of love, strength, and resilience.

Knowing my “Why” gave me the courage to face the hard truths, to sit in the uncomfortable emotions, and to choose healing over bitterness. It pushed me to not only confront my past but to share my journey through writing. That’s how Highway to Healing was born—a book I never could have imagined would turn into a multi-award-winning title, but it did, because the heart behind it was genuine.

How My “Why” Led to the Creation of My Coaching Business

After writing Highway to Healing, I knew my healing journey wasn’t just for me. My “Why” expanded into something greater than just showing up for my family—it became about showing up for others. I wanted to help others experience the same freedom, peace, and growth that I had found through healing. That’s when I launched Showering Seeds of Growth, my coaching business dedicated to helping people heal, grow, and thrive.

This business is more than a venture—it’s a mission. Every day, I strive to help people get to a place where they are open to the possibility of healing, just as I had to do. The process isn’t easy, and it’s often messy, but knowing your “Why” makes it worth it. When you’re rooted in your purpose, you realize that healing is not only possible, but it’s essential if you want to truly live and not just exist.

Helping Others Find Their “Why” and #Heal4Real

Through my book and my coaching, I’m committed to helping people uncover their “Why.” Whether it’s healing from trauma, finding clarity in relationships, or navigating life’s challenges, knowing why you’re on this journey is what will sustain you when things get hard. Healing is not a straight line; it’s a continuous process. But when you know your “Why,” you have the strength to keep going, to do the work, and to come out on the other side as a better, stronger version of yourself.

My “Why”—to show up better instead of bitter for my family—has driven every decision I’ve made since I decided to heal. It’s what gave me the courage to write Highway to Healing, to build Showering Seeds of Growth, and to continue to help others unlock the possibility of healing in their own lives. And it’s what keeps me going every day, pushing me to create more, to help more, and to heal more.

So, what’s your “Why”? If you don’t know it yet, that’s okay. Start by asking yourself what matters most to you, and what you’re willing to fight for. When you find your “Why,” you’ll find the strength to do the work and #Heal4Real.

Are you ready to #heal4real?

There’s a quote I live by: “It’s a heart thing, not a hard thing.” This simple phrase has transformed the way I approach life’s challenges and relationships. Often, we encounter situations that feel overwhelming or too difficult to manage, but I’ve come to realize that much of what we perceive as hard can be seen through the lens of the heart. By shifting our perspective and approaching life with empathy and compassion, we open the door to deeper understanding, growth, and connection.

Shifting Our Perspective

When we label something as “hard,” we immediately create resistance. We anticipate difficulty and brace ourselves for struggle. But when we remember that “It’s a heart thing, not a hard thing,” we begin to see those same challenges in a new light. Instead of focusing on the obstacles, we focus on the emotional and relational aspects that can lead us to growth and resolution.

Approaching life’s challenges with heart means tapping into empathy, compassion, and understanding. It’s about connecting with ourselves and others on a deeper level and realizing that most challenges aren’t as difficult as they seem when we approach them with openness and intention.

Relationships: A Matter of the Heart

Relationships are often the source of life’s greatest joys, but they can also feel like some of the hardest parts to navigate. Whether it’s with family, friends, or partners, we sometimes find ourselves thinking that certain relationships are just too hard to manage.

But relationships, at their core, are about the heart. When we approach them with love, patience, and empathy, we realize that they don’t have to be as hard as we make them out to be. By leading with heart, we unlock the true potential for connection and healing. It’s about understanding, not controlling, and about opening ourselves up to the vulnerability that brings us closer together.

Leading with Compassion

When faced with challenges—especially those involving other people’s emotions or our own—it’s easy to think that resolving these issues will be tough. But with the mindset of “It’s a heart thing, not a hard thing,” we remind ourselves to lead with compassion.

Compassion acknowledges the humanity in every situation. It allows us to be gentle with ourselves and others, to see the bigger picture, and to approach difficulties with grace. Whether we’re setting boundaries, making tough decisions, or navigating conflict, keeping our hearts open enables us to find solutions rooted in understanding rather than resistance.

It’s About Connection, Not Perfection

Life can feel hard when we’re constantly striving for perfection or control. But perfection isn’t the goal—connection is. When we shift our focus from trying to make everything perfect to simply being present and connected, we find that life’s challenges feel lighter. It’s through these moments of connection, vulnerability, and authenticity that we grow the most.

By remembering “It’s a heart thing, not a hard thing,” we open ourselves up to deeper relationships, greater personal growth, and a more fulfilling journey. We learn to let go of the need to have all the answers and trust in the power of compassion and connection.

Moving Forward with Heart

So, the next time you face something that feels too hard, take a step back and remember my quote: “It’s a heart thing, not a hard thing.” Approach the situation with empathy, lead with your heart, and allow yourself to connect with the deeper meaning behind the challenge. Life becomes much more manageable when we stop fighting against it and start flowing with it.

Remember, it’s our hearts that carry us through life’s challenges, not our ability to make everything easy or perfect. By embracing compassion and connection, we empower ourselves to navigate life’s ups and downs with grace.

Don’t Stop. Don’t Settle. Keep Stepping.

In a world that often emphasizes individual success and self-care, the line between selfishness and selflessness can sometimes blur. It’s easy to swing too far in one direction, either putting everyone else’s needs ahead of your own or focusing so much on yourself that others are left behind. But true growth and healing come from understanding the delicate balance between the two.

What is Selfishness?

Selfishness is often seen as a negative trait, and in many cases, it can be. When someone is selfish, they place their own wants, desires, and needs above everyone else’s, often at the expense of others. This can manifest in relationships, work, or personal endeavors, where the focus is solely on gaining or benefiting without regard for how it impacts others. But it’s important to recognize that selfishness can also stem from fear—fear of losing control, fear of lack, or even fear of vulnerability.

Yet, there’s a misconception that any act of putting yourself first is selfish. In reality, setting boundaries and protecting your own well-being isn’t selfishness; it’s self-preservation. It’s when the intention behind our actions comes from a place of taking more than giving, or neglecting others, that selfishness can become harmful.

What is Selflessness?

On the flip side, selflessness is often praised as a noble trait—putting others’ needs and well-being ahead of your own. A selfless person is someone who sacrifices their time, energy, and resources to help others, often without expecting anything in return. Acts of kindness, empathy, and compassion fall under the umbrella of selflessness, and they play a crucial role in maintaining healthy relationships and communities.

But even selflessness, when taken to an extreme, can become unhealthy. Constantly prioritizing others while neglecting your own needs can lead to burnout, resentment, and even emotional exhaustion. Selflessness doesn’t mean abandoning yourself; it means finding a way to serve others while still caring for your own well-being.

The Balance: Healthy Selfishness and Purposeful Selflessness

The key to navigating selfishness and selflessness lies in balance. You can’t pour from an empty cup, and at the same time, living only for yourself leaves little room for meaningful connections with others.

• Healthy Selfishness: It’s okay—necessary, even—to prioritize your mental, emotional, and physical health. This isn’t selfishness in the negative sense, but rather a form of self-love and self-respect. Taking time for yourself, setting boundaries, and acknowledging your limits are all acts of healthy selfishness that empower you to be more present and available for others in the long run.

• Purposeful Selflessness: Acts of kindness and generosity are most impactful when they come from a place of intention and purpose. Purposeful selflessness is about giving when you can, in ways that align with your values, without sacrificing your well-being. It’s about knowing when to say “yes” and when to say “no” so that your giving doesn’t become draining or obligatory.

Finding Your Balance

For me, finding the balance between selfishness and selflessness has been an ongoing journey. As a coach, artist, and mother, there are so many roles I juggle that require me to show up for others. But I’ve also learned that showing up for myself is just as important. Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s necessary for sustaining the energy and strength needed to serve others effectively.

To thrive, we need both healthy selfishness and purposeful selflessness. We must recognize when we need to fill our own cups and when we have the capacity to pour into someone else’s. It’s not about always choosing one over the other; it’s about knowing when each is appropriate.

Ask Yourself:

• Am I neglecting my own needs in the name of serving others?
• Do I feel guilty for taking time for myself? Why?
• Where can I set healthier boundaries to find more balance between giving and receiving?

Selfishness vs. selflessness isn’t a black-and-white concept—it’s a spectrum. By paying attention to your needs and the needs of others, and by understanding your own limits, you can find a healthier, more fulfilling balance in life.

Don’t Stop. Don’t Settle. Keep Stepping.

“Even in the darkest moments, light and hope can break through. Keep holding on.”

There was a time in my life when I felt like I was drowning in pain. The weight of my childhood trauma and the unimaginable loss of my firstborn son, who passed away due to Trisomy 13 after I carried him full term, was too much to bear. In those dark moments, I was overwhelmed by the cards I had been dealt, and suicide felt like the only way to escape the agony I was living with every day.

I know what it’s like to stand at the edge, feeling like there’s no way forward. The pain, the loss, the brokenness—it all felt too heavy. I didn’t see a future for myself, and I didn’t think I had the strength to keep going. In that moment, I believed I had reached the end of my road. I was ready to give up, to surrender to the darkness that had consumed me.

But something held me back.

It was my faith. Even in my brokenness, a glimmer of hope remained. I believed there had to be more for me, even though I couldn’t see it at the time. And that hope—tiny as it was—kept me holding on, one day at a time. If it weren’t for my faith and hope, I wouldn’t be here to tell you this story. I wouldn’t be here to witness all the promises that were waiting for me on the other side of the storm.

Looking back now, I see how the things that were meant to break me, the moments that nearly did, have become the very reasons I’ve found beauty in brokenness. They’ve allowed me to see that there is purpose in the pain. If I had let go when it felt easier to give up, I would have missed out on the life I’m living today—a life filled with healing, joy, and a deeper understanding of why I’m here.

To anyone reading this who is feeling like the weight of life is unbearable, I want you to know that I understand. I’ve been where you are. I’ve felt the hopelessness and the darkness. But I also want you to know this: the pain you’re feeling right now does not define the rest of your life. It may feel impossible to believe, but there is hope for better days ahead.

Please, don’t give up. Don’t let the darkness win. There are people who love you, who need you, and who would miss you deeply. There are promises and possibilities in your future that you can’t yet imagine. I know it feels impossible now, but the very things that feel like they’re breaking you may end up being the things that shape you into the person you’re meant to be.

Hold on to hope, no matter how small. Reach out to someone. Talk to a friend, a family member, a counselor—anyone who can remind you that you don’t have to carry this burden alone. There is no shame in seeking help. It’s one of the bravest things you can do.

You are here for a reason. Your life has meaning and purpose beyond this moment of pain. I know because I’ve walked through it, and I’ve come out the other side. And if I had given up, I would have missed all the beauty that was waiting for me. You are stronger than you know, and you are worth fighting for.

Please don’t let go. Keep stepping forward, one small step at a time. There is more for you. There is hope. There is healing. And there are brighter days ahead.

—Coach Shae Pratcher

#SuicidePrevention

#Heal4Real