Before diving into today’s blog, I invite you to reflect on a cherished memory of a gathering that positively influenced your life. What was the event? Who attended? What made it impactful for you? A gathering is more than just providing food; it’s about creating an experience that brings people together.
I fondly remember my childhood when my family opened our home to anyone who wanted to share a meal. Imagine a kitchen filled with the delightful aromas of vegetables, dough, and sauces, complemented by the sound of laughter as we crafted our own pizzas. This welcoming spirit, nurtured by my parents, turned our home into a hub for gatherings. Soon enough, our house became the favorite destination for basketball meet-ups with both girls’ and boys’ teams, and families enjoyed pizza nights or New Year’s Eve chili parties.
As I transitioned into adulthood, I carried this lesson into my jiu-jitsu journey. Our coach at 10th Planet Perry was featured in the second season of the Professional Grappling Federation (PGF). For nine weeks, we gathered every Friday night to attend class and then came to my house for dinner, followed by watching that week’s PGF episode to see how our coach performed. This routine not only brought us together over meals but also fostered conversations and deepened friendships beyond the mat, creating lasting bonds among us.
These gatherings became a cornerstone of my personal growth, a testament to the joy of community and the strength found in togetherness. Each event was filled with laughter, stories, and moments that bonded us in ways words often fail to capture. The aroma of home-cooked meals wafting through the air and the warm embraces shared at the end of the night created an atmosphere of love and acceptance.
Through these experiences, I discovered the profound impact of simply being present for one another. It wasn’t just about the food or the activities; it was about the memories we created and the relationships we nurtured. In planning these gatherings, I learned the delicate balance of listening to the needs of others while also contributing my own unique touch, ensuring everyone felt valued and welcome.
Reflecting on these gatherings, I’ve come to understand that they were more than mere social occasions; they were invaluable life lessons. They taught me the importance of leading with kindness, embracing others, and creating environments where everyone feels valued. These experiences have profoundly influenced my journey, motivating me to nurture connections and build communities wherever I go. Such relationships can help you discover your true self while cherishing the moments spent with those who may only briefly share your table, as your paths intersect for just a season. However, this doesn’t diminish the lasting impact you can have on one another’s lives, which can resonate throughout your lifetime.
The takeaway from this reflection is that providing food at gatherings serves as a foundational step toward fostering heartwarming, transformative relationships that may emerge in the spaces you create.
Becca created Stacked Intent with a clear mission: to help individuals become the best, most authentic version of themselves. This Life Education business, founded by the vibrant and passionate Becca Stackhouse-Morson, provides the tools, strategies, and inspiration individuals need to make powerful decisions about self-care and personal growth. The idea is simple but profound: when you have a healthy relationship with yourself, every aspect of your life improves.
Becca is not only the CEO and Founder of Stacked Intent, LLC, she’s also a Certified Family Life Educator (CFLE), Jiu Jitsu & Self-Defense Instructor, and RYT-200 Yoga Instructor. With a Master of Science in Family Studies and a Bachelors in Interdisciplinary Studies with a Social Science Focus from the University of North Alabama, she combines academic expertise with practical experience.
Stacked Intent offers a range of resources, courses, and worksheets designed to help individuals stay true to themselves and confidently navigate life’s challenges. With tools like the Money Personality Quiz, 30-Day Self-Affirmation Challenge, and Money Date Checklist, Stacked Intent empowers personal growth and authenticity. Courses such as Building a Strong Relationship with Yourself and Cracking Life’s Code guide individuals on their journey to becoming their truest selves, step by step.
To find out more, check out Stacked Intent resources, website, blog, speaking engagements, Stacked Intent Course Suite, podcast, Facebook, and Instagram.
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Do you have a story of your own to share? Check out this post to learn more about the heart behind the series and the link for submissions.
