Tina Lafford’s speech at ACW’s 50th Anniversary was nothing short of inspiring. Her words beautifully honored our shared journey and looking forward to the future with hope and vision. We invite you to read her powerful message summarized below.
October 26th, 2024 | Los Angeles, CA
The speaker, Tina, shares her journey of self-discovery and the importance of collective self-awareness. She uses the collective ‘we’ to emphasize the struggles and traumas we all face, including substance abuse. She believes that our soul already knows the answers to our struggles, and she encourages us to use our time and life to remind ourselves of our innate worth and worthiness.
She also shares her next book, which provides a to-do moment for making a change. She emphasizes that holding onto oneself and reminding oneself of their worth is the biggest gift one can give to themselves. She believes that the place where we belong is given to us by something much greater, organizing the universe down to what every blade of grass, bee, and animal. By holding onto these truths, we can work towards a more fulfilling life and a more fulfilling life.
Each of us is given a purpose, which is to grow. In tough moments, remind yourself that you matter and ask how you can grow from that experience. This mindset helps you connect with the purpose that is inherently yours, granted by a higher power. When you acknowledge that you matter, you begin to nurture and support yourself, reclaiming the message that may have been lost or overshadowed by life’s challenges. Telling yourself “I matter” is like giving water to a thirsty plant; it brings life back into your sense of self. This affirmation connects you to a greater hope and purpose.
Even if it feels difficult to say, try to express it, whether by reminding yourself or seeking support from others. There are unseen forces at work within you, and you might not fully understand them yet. Learning the right tools, especially in supportive environments like the alcoholism center for women, fosters growth not just for you but also creates a ripple effect of change.
It’s important to note that our brains are naturally inclined towards negativity due to evolutionary reasons. Historically, this focus on danger has kept humans safe. We tend to think many negative thoughts daily, with studies showing around 80% of our thoughts can lean negative. Because of this, it’s our job to help our brains shift focus to what is positive.
Despite the struggles and trauma we experience, any joy or positive thought represents a remarkable achievement against negativity. Our responsibility is to pay attention to this positivity and strengthen it by recognizing our worth and what is right about us. When self-doubt arises, remind yourself that up until now, that was your thinking, but it can change. This shift is crucial for personal growth and well-being.