October 2024

Shara Smile, LLC Newsletter October 2024

Happy October,

After listening to, watching, and praying through the historic devastation of Hurricane Helene, which has impacted six states, destroyed highways, claimed at least 130 lives, and left millions with destroyed homes and property, I write this filled with sadness, heartache, and, strangely... gratitude.

There are so many issues that we as parents, adults, teens, families, community members, Americans-- face. I’m sure if I were to sit with you, you could share a story of challenge, sorrow, confusion, and devastation in your life or someone close to you. And while we handle our own issues, we can also sit with the feelings of gratitude, grace, and giving for things happening that are positive, uplifting, and encouraging in our lives, and in others’.

Often, when one person (or community) experiences a loss, we see the greatness in humanity as others rise to the occasion to lend a helping hand. Isn’t that what makes us human? Aren’t these the moments that tie us together? Reaching out and connecting to another in need? Being able to empathize or sympathize and pull ourselves out of our own pain to feel for someone else and DO something for them instead of staying in our own muck? And when we do reach out to help another somehow, it helps our own hurt…it can even heal us. Even if for a brief moment, we may forget our own hurt, anger, discord. That brief moment can be a welcome and most needed break from our own and create a change within us.

October is ADHD awareness month, Breast Cancer awareness month and Domestic Violence Awareness month. It’s a heavy-hitting mental health awareness month in general. Just thinking about these three issues sends my heart into a heavy place. I hope that this month you can find a way to reach out to help another even if you are dealing with a heavy challenge of your own. Perhaps in reaching out to another, you find in your heart refreshment, encouragement, and an energy that helps you push through your own challenges.

Enjoy the crisper weather, lend a hand, and while you’re out there, if you can….

Share a smile!

Blessings,

Shara

Emergency Hotline Phone numbers

Text “Sharasmile” to 85100 to receive important information and communication from Shara Smile!

Emergency Hotline Phone number

Text “Sharasmile” to 85100 to receive important information and communication from Shara Smile!

A woman is smiling in front of a forest with autumn leaves.

CHECK IT OUT!

A book called the deepest place by curt thompson md

The Deepest Place: Suffering and the Formation of Hope

Discover how suffering can lead to hope and transformation with psychiatrist and author Curt Thompson in *The Deepest Place*. Explore how secure attachment, faith, and God's presence can help us move from anxiety to lasting peace, even in the midst of grief.

A book titled anatomy of the soul by curt thompson m.d.

Anatomy of the Soul: Surprising Connections between Neuroscience and Spiritual Practices That Can Transform Your Life and Relationships Join Curt Thompson, M.D., in *Anatomy of the Soul* as he reveals how neuroscience and Christian spirituality can rewire your mind for lasting personal change. Discover practical exercises to transform your brain, enrich relationships, and become more like the person God intended you to be.

The cover of the book no visible bruises by rachel louise snyder

No Visible Bruises: What We Don’t Know About Domestic Violence Can Kill Us In No Visible Bruises, journalist Rachel Louise Snyder uncovers the hidden epidemic of domestic violence, challenging myths and revealing its far-reaching impact on society. Through powerful stories of victims, perpetrators, and reform efforts, she calls for a deeper understanding and action to address this urgent issue.

REST, REJUVENATE, and RELATE

It’s my hope to help you connect with your family, your body, and your community!

Embrace the season with exciting fall activities! Don’t miss out on these fun ways to make the most of autumn!

Pumpkin Fest

Did you know Middle Tennessee’s largest family fall festival takes place in downtown Franklin? More than 112,000 people attended last year! This year, the 39th annual Pumpkinfest will take place on Saturday, October 26th.

On that day, tens of thousands of people will flock to Main Street to enjoy seasonally inspired food and drinks, arts and crafts, and entertainment. This is one bustling festival you don’t want to miss!

Gentry’s Farm

For many Franklin families, visiting Gentry’s Farm in the fall is a rite of passage. The seventh-generation farm just a few minutes from downtown opens to the public every weekend in October. It offers hayrides, pumpkin picking, a cornfield maze, and lots of outdoor activities for kids.

Franklin Farmers Market

For all your harvest-inspired recipes, head to Franklin Farmers Market at the Factory on any autumn Saturday for local produce, baked goods, food trucks, and arts and crafts.

This year-round market always has lots of fabulous Tennessee products to choose from, and we visit often. You’ll find it outside The Factory on Saturdays, rain or shine

Shara Smile Update!

A candle on a table with the words praying for those affected by hurricane helene

Praying for the victims of Hurricane Helene as they face the devastation left in its wake. In times of crisis, Mr. Rogers reminded us to 'look for the helpers'—those who step in to care and restore. Let's come together to make a difference. Below are some resources for those in Tennessee.