“The transformative power of a simple ‘thank you’ can significantly impact someone's day, making them feel valued and acknowledged.” ~ Kamika Lynette Bell
This past Saturday, I had the wonderful opportunity to treat our amazing girls to a brunch at the Hotel Dupont in Wilmington, Delaware. Our theme for the event was "Pretty in Pearls." The girls donned their beautiful white dresses, each adorned with pearls. As they arrived, they entered the grandeur of the hotel's lobby, which boasts a stunning ambiance and stylish interior decorations that are nothing short of breathtaking.I was honored to offer the girls this firsthand experience, allowing them to admire the elegant European chandeliers, stunning wood floors, and vintage style. Le Cavalier at Hotel Dupont is a lively modern brasserie with a European twist. The impeccable customer service provided by the servers, and notably by the morning chef and management team, made the morning delightful. The flavors of Provence influence the chef-driven menu from the Chef- and highlight the seasonal bounty of Delaware's foodways.
Our annual brunch, a highlight of the Girls With Pearls program, is not just about fine dining. It's about instilling values that will guide these young girls as they grow. This year, we chose the Hotel Dupont as part of our etiquette component. We believe that etiquette, table manners, and gratitude are essential in today's society. We encourage the girls to embrace the power of 'Thank You' and 'Gratitude' as guiding principles in their lives. These values foster effective communication and interpersonal skills, which are crucial as the girls transition into adulthood.
They also promote a sense of professionalism, reliability, and respect for the environment, leading to opportunities in leadership roles and making a lasting impression on others. Table manners are equally important as they foster respect, consideration, and polish, enhancing a strong sense of self-worth and credibility in both personal and professional settings.
The program concluded with a welcome, prayer, ice breaker, poetry, my personal letter to my younger self, and finally, a delicious brunch.
I want to share my letter to my younger self, which I shared on April 27th.
Dear Younger Self, Girls With Pearls, and Young Girls Everywhere!
As I sit down to write this letter, a surge of emotions fills me, for there is so much I wish to convey to you. First and foremost, keep God at the forefront of your life. Hold Him in the center of your heart, and never waver in your faith. You will need this steadfast faith during the challenging seasons ahead when life doesn't seem to align with your hopes. I urge you to find a scripture that resonates deep within your soul, one that will serve as a beacon during your toughest days. Dream big, for no dream is too vast, and no mountain too steep to conquer. Alongside dreaming, recognize the profound impact of mentorship and the importance of paying it forward to other young girls.
Life can indeed be daunting, filled with uncertainties and self-doubt. In these moments, never second-guess yourself and always trust your intuition. As you navigate through life's peaks and valleys, seek mentors whom you can trust implicitly—those who have walked similar paths or faced similar challenges. These mentors could be family members like your mom, dad, aunt, or siblings, or they could be a teacher or someone else you admire. Choose mentors who genuinely wish the best for you without any hint of jealousy. Mentorship is reciprocal. Listen attentively, apply the wisdom your mentors share, and always approach these relationships with gratitude. No matter the difficulties you face, there is always something to be grateful for. Take a moment each day to express gratitude for your family, friends, the beauty of nature, or simply for the new day God has given you.
As you grow and evolve, never forget the importance of humility. Pay it forward and be a blessing to others, just as you have been blessed. Share your journey with other young girls who are discovering themselves, embarking on new adventures, or entering new environments. Be a source of inspiration, hope, and a resource, just as your mentors were for you.
Reflecting on my own journey, the paramount lesson I have learned is the importance of gratitude. Each morning, spend 5-10 minutes in quiet reflection, embracing the things you are thankful for and welcoming new blessings and opportunities. Life can often feel chaotic and overwhelming, but gratitude is a pillar and a beacon of light that guides us through the darkness. It acts as a catalyst, reminding us of the abundance around us and filling our hearts with joy, peace, love, and blessings
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With all my heart,
If you have any questions or thoughts, feel free to share them in the comments. Happy reading and until next time!
Let's stay connected.
So powerful . The brilliance of your love evokes the light of hope. 💙🙏🏾