As we celebrate Women’s Month this March, I reflect on a powerful and transformative lesson I am still learning in the wake of an unimaginable event—the Palisades Fire in Los Angeles, which took every possession we had. It is a devastating loss, leaving me with nothing but the clothes on my back and an overwhelming sense of uncertainty. In these moments, I realize that strength doesn’t always come from standing alone. Sometimes, it comes from leaning on others, from accepting help, and from finding the courage to let people guide you when you can’t see the path forward.
This experience reinforces a critical lesson that stays with me: we are never truly alone. Even in our most difficult moments, the support of our community can be the very thing that pulls us through. And this is a lesson we should carry with us, not just during moments of crisis but every single day.
The Power of Relying on Others
In the days following the fire, I feel like I’ve lost everything. I don’t even have a pen to write down my thoughts or a notebook to begin making plans. It’s an incredibly vulnerable moment. I had just returned from a spiritual retreat and was on my honeymoon when the fire struck, and all I have with me are a pair of white linen pants. Not exactly the most practical clothes for business meetings or even daily life in Los Angeles. I feel exposed—both literally and emotionally. But amid the uncertainty and chaos, something incredible happens: people show up.
They come to me with open hearts, asking, “How can I help?” At first, I had no idea how anyone can help me. I’ve just lost everything—how could they possibly know what I need? But then, a dear friend of mine does something extraordinary. She hands me a copy of my own book. She drove at night, after she put her two kids to bed and drove for an hour to give it to me because she knew that all my copies were lost in the fire. She looks at me and says, “Here’s a really good book that has some really good advice in it. You should be reading this right now.”
That small but meaningful gesture is a turning point. It reminds me that we can find comfort in the simplest things, and sometimes, the best thing we can offer someone in their time of need is something that holds meaning to them—a piece of their past, a reflection of their wisdom, or simply a reminder of who they are. That moment isn’t just about the book; it’s about the deep connection between us, the thoughtfulness, and the love that she shows me when I’m at my lowest.
The Importance of Community and Connection
This experience brings me to an important realization: the idea of community is more vital than ever, especially right now, in the midst of all the chaos and confusion we face in the world, especially in North America. It’s easy to become overwhelmed by the endless noise in the media, the divisiveness in politics, the mixed messages, the outright lies, and the constant changes in culture. It feels as though we are being pulled in a hundred different directions, each one trying to tell us what to think and how to act.
But the truth is, the most powerful thing we can do in times of crisis or confusion is to turn inward and focus on what truly matters: our community, our people, and our message. In the chaos, we often forget that our own truth and our clarity can guide us through. It’s easy to get swept up in what others are saying, but remember—most of what we hear out there is just noise. The external world, the political battles, the cultural wars—they’re all part of an illusion. The things that truly sustain us are the things that come from within, from the relationships we cultivate, and from the resonance we create with others who share our values and vision.
Resonance: The Key to Building Lasting Connections
As I reflect on my own journey of loss and recovery, I realize that the key to building resilience is not just about “surviving” but about creating meaningful connections with others. The way we show up for ourselves is just as important as the way others show up for us. Our presence, our authenticity, and the energy we put out into the world are what attract the people who will support and uplift us when we need it most.
When we live in alignment with our own truth, when we are clear about our values, and when we consistently show up as our authentic selves, we create a resonance, a vibration that draws the right people to us. This resonance—this energetic connection—is what sustains us. It is neither about perfection, nor about doing it all alone. It’s about being real, being vulnerable, and allowing the support of those around us to help us rebuild and rise again. Time to put the show aside and step in who the real you is behind the scenes. No faking till you make it. This you can’t fake.
Living Authentically and Creating Connection
This Women’s Month, I encourage you to think about your own community, the people who surround you, and the message you are putting out into the world. Are you living in alignment with your truth? Are you creating an energy that attracts the right people to you—the ones who will stand by you, support you, and help you when you need it most? Women’s rights are once again under fire. I shudder to think that some laws are actually proposing that women who are married should be silenced all together. On the other hand let’s not get caught up in the noise of the outside world. Let’s focus on what matters: the relationships we nurture, the wisdom we share, and the resonance we create. And always our immediate community. Tell your truth. When we do this, we not only support ourselves—we also become a source of strength for others, just as others are there for us when we need it most.
A Call to Action for Women: Build Community, Embrace Resilience
As women, we are resilient. We are strong. And we are capable of amazing things—especially when we come together. So, this March, take a moment to reflect on the power of community in your own life. Who are the people who have supported you in your darkest moments? How can you nurture those connections, not just for your benefit, but for the benefit of those around you?
Remember, you don’t have to do it alone. The strength of your community, the clarity of your message, and the resonance you create will help you navigate even the most challenging times. Let’s make this Women’s Month a celebration of our collective power, our resilience, and the beautiful, authentic connections we build together.
I hope this message resonates with you. Let it remind you that no matter what challenges you face, you are never alone. Surround yourself with those who lift you up, and remember, resilience is built on the foundation of community.
Let’s grow!
Beate
