“It was devastating, in that moment, as a new mother to bring something so precious into the world and know what they could face.”

~ April Chavez.

---

The numbness. The pain. The rage. The lack of control. I held my little girl in my arms. Tears streaming down my face, holding her tight, rocking back and forth. I swore I would protect her forever. I was 19 years old when I had my first daughter. Entirely aware of the horrors life can bring, I was naive that I would have control over another's life. It was devastating, in that moment, as a new mother to bring something so precious into the world and know what they could face. When you’re in that state, it isn’t easy to see the beauty of life, too. 

I did my best. And, I know that. And, because of that, often putting immense energy into trying to protect, fix, control, it was harder on me and likely my children, too. I’m a fiery mother over injustice, and the injustices come one after another. And when you can’t win them all, what’s next? What do you do as a parent that can’t protect your children from the tragedies of life? We all know that none of us get through it without the frictions of chaos in some form or another. And, we know, too, that it’s how we perceive those experiences and choose to respond. The best we can do is be the example of that.

But what does that example look like? It’s not about pretending the pain doesn’t exist, or that we have all the answers. It’s about showing up, even when we feel broken. It’s about demonstrating the courage to face our vulnerabilities, to acknowledge our wounds, and to choose healing.

I’ve learned that the most powerful thing we can offer our children and ourselves is the ability to heal—not erase the past but transform it. Transmute the pain into strength, the fear into resilience, and the rage into compassion. This journey of healing begins within us. When we commit to becoming the best version of ourselves, we heal our wounds and create a ripple effect, healing those around us.

There’s a growing body of scientific evidence that supports this. Our intentions, energy, and heart-centered focus profoundly impact our physical and emotional well-being and, by extension, on those we love. Miraculous healings, documented throughout history, often stem from this principle. When we embrace heart-centered healing and surround our loved ones with love and compassion emanating from our deepest core, we create a sanctuary of safety and support.

This does not negate the need for practical support or action against injustice. It enhances it. By going within, finding that quiet strength, and learning to bend without breaking, we're better prepared to face whatever life brings.

As the CEO of Driven Livin', I've directed my passionate energy into creating resources, programs, and private communities intentionally designed to educate, heal, and guide us toward a more remarkable evolution. We therefore are not just talking about individual healing but a collective shift. We understand that healing isn't a one-and-done thing; it’s a journey of continuous evolution. That's why we're here – to walk alongside you, whether you're working through personal trauma, building your resilience, or seeking a supportive community. When we empower individuals to heal, we empower families and ultimately empower the world.

Choose to be the example. Choose healing. Choose love.

Visit our website to learn more about Driven Livin' resources and communities. If this article resonated with you and you would like to discuss it, schedule a 15-minute virtual meeting to chat with April.