Hearing Voices.

I heard a voice say “Make a Quilt”. 

It was a rainy afternoon and I was hovered over my computer getting ready to post from my soapbox about the difference between change and transformation. 

You see, change is something that usually happens gradually. It can be small or large but usually remains in the current paradigm of thinking. It’s relatively incremental and can easily be reversed. 

In order for transformation to happen, something has to completely give way, go away in order for a new state to emerge. 

I witnessed this kind of transformation first hand when we burned down our farm house. 

After renovating it for more than a year, we discovered the old timber frame was infested with powder post beetles - rendering the entire structure unsuitable for reconstruction let alone habitation. 

For a week the local fire department used it for training and then poof, it was reduced to a pile of ash in less than half an hour. The only thing left was the foundation. 

And from that foundation, sprang the new structure that houses our family today. Purposefully designed to integrate with the land and serve as our sanctuary. 

Looking back, that analogy is not lost on me. 

Transformation is the way that I think about my work as a coach in the service of my clients. 

Drawing out hidden knowledge in order to transform a limiting belief, old behavior or identity. Holding space for something completely new to emerge from the strength of their foundation. 

This March, I am going to honor our work together. 

I will be heading to Gee’s Bend Alabama to experience the quilting traditions of one of the most important African-American visual and cultural art centers in the United States and to learn from master quilters Loretta and Marlene. 

I will carry my clients with me in the form of a sample of cloth or clothing that no longer represents them, a symbol of their transformation. 

For me, I'll be packing a red DVF dress. I think I saved it just for this moment. More on that later. 

These symbolic stories will be cut up and transformed into The Labyrinth Quilt in celebration of all the conscious leaders in The Beacon Collective. 

I hope you’ll follow me on my journey. 

All of this would not be possible without Geetika Agrawal and her incredible company VAWAA. Cate who gave me the courage to tell brave stories and Bill who gave me the tools. Dr. Bertice Berry who inspires me every day. I love you too. Cara, my role model for adventure and dearest Irina who nurtures all travelers. 

Members of my coach squad including Melissa, Nia, Erin, Caroline, Claire and Mary Ellen (the Sam to My Frodo … our Merry and Pippen have yet to reveal themselves). 

And my husband and children who let me dream big every day. 

To all of the clients of The Beacon Collective (you know who you are), I will be in touch shortly with how to send me your stories.