Like a Sunflower

Hello friends!  We have been quiet here for a few months as we have been navigating the rise of the pandemic in South Asia. Bangladesh has been under lockdown since early April and our artisans have not been able to work for the last five months.  I’ll admit I’ve been feeling pretty stressed and down lately with the third wave of COVID devastating South Asia and our artisans having to continue lockdown for months now. Entrepreneurship is filled with highs and lows but I never expected to have to navigate a global pandemic multiple times within our first 1.5 years of business.

During this emotional and professional turmoil, I did something that I don’t do too often. I took a break.

A much-needed break during a busy work weekend to go and visit the sunflowers in a local park. I had never gone before and it would have been easy to skip a break this time too by reminding myself that there is always more work to be done. However, seeing this beautiful sight today was more than I could have known I needed.

I was reminded of beauty in the world. I was reminded of our community standing strong next to one other. I was reminded of the amazing and awe-inspiring power of standing together rather than trying to take on everything and standing alone. Like a sunflower continues to turn its head towards the sun, we are also going to realign our vision and continue to face towards the direction of positive impact. 700 Rivers has organized a crowdfunding campaign to raise money to continue supporting our artisans and create new jobs by launching a new product line.

Our goal is to raise another $2,500 in the next 10 days. It is a high goal but I know we can do it! Check out the link below to make a life-changing contribution. We can’t wait to continue making a global impact with you!

And friend, if you are going through a hard time too, know that I am here to support and encourage you. Keep blooming friends.