Chosen to Shine 2018

It has been said that the only thing faster than the speed of light, is darkness. Wherever light reaches, darkness is there waiting. These last few months have brought darkness to many dear friends and beloved family. Whether it is job loss after years of service, loss of a marriage, illness, suffering and even loss of life. True understanding of such loss may mean that you have had to endure it.

The question “why?” sets our minds reeling into darkness. Unanswered questions that we may never be meant to understand. It’s hard to swallow, to come to grips with the fact that we are not truly in control. This blog began after we tragically lost our son at age 19. He was crossing the street, nine weeks into his freshman year of college and was hit by a car. We got the call no one wants. These words come from the heart, in hopes of helping others that may be enduring an adversity.

There is no right or wrong way to handle grief. It is unique to each person and the trauma endured. The first two years following loss, I pushed into overdrive. God placed people in my life that gave time and strength to start a non profit, Chosen to Shine. Our mission was to provide opportunity to serve others through faith with the understanding that everyone matters and is chosen to shine. We have served both locally and internationally, held summer camps, social gatherings and our annual Palooza concert fundraiser.

In May, I took a leap of faith and left the business I knew for the past 30 years, to pursue my passion of coaching, speaking, encouraging, equipping and empowering others to live THEIR passion. Walking away from a career I loved and stability was not an easy choice. Loss has made me realize the importance of each moment we are gifted.

In 2018, Chosen to Shine will be implementing Youth Max leadership training. Equipping young adults to turn obstacles into opportunities. Our Youth Max Ambassador is Nick Vujicic, Life without Limits. Nick was born with no arms and legs and is an internationally known speaker and author. Youth Max inspires and equips young people to value themselves and others, by developing and maintaining a positive self image, showing compassion to others, persevering in the midst of adversity, and creating a daily routine of successful attitudes and behaviors.

We appreciate your support of our Chosen to Shine leadership program!  If you or your business would like to partner with us, please contact Lauri@lookupleadership.com for details. If you would like to donate there is a donate button on our website at Chosentoshine.org. If you have a high school or college age student interested in lifting the lid on opportunities or serving, please visit our website or our Facebook page for event information.

As this year draws to a close, I encourage you to take time to reflect on the gifts you have been given. The true gifts of love, joy, hope, and laughter, in all people. We hope you choose to make a difference and shine brightly in 2018!

Forever looking up,
MamaC

For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

Photo by:  Harrison McLaughlin – sharing light while serving our country.