WIPING THE TEARS

Hey Friend,

Being very transparent last week was something I felt I needed to do. If we close, I want to do so with dignity. Here's what I mean by that.

Sometimes mission-oriented companies have to end. You can probably think of one that did. A few of you shared with me that when things ended with those brands, it was abrupt and didn't allow for healthy closure. You were personally invested, donated, promoted, involved as if it were your own. I am certain those founders were going through hard things, but I know vulnerability means a lot.

It you missed last week, you can read it here. 

Last Friday was the time of the month when my hormones were peak, so I wondered if I should be writing at all. Too risky to announce this before it actually happens? Looking at our assets on hand like fabric, inventory, and our office lease for another eleven months, it would be at least a year until I would have to announce anything. I decided to go for it because it's been on my mind for a while.

I felt a huge relief after, but immediately thought, “did I just prematurely kill off Elegantees?” People might start cancelling us already, and well, we still need customers to do the next year with dignity.

To my shock, it was the opposite. Instead of getting cancelled, I received so many thoughtful messages that reassured me you see me. It was a purpose-booster for me. Elegantees has a tagline “inspire and restore hope” and I guess we've been actually doing that. It made it feel worth it.

I stopped crying after these messages. I felt loved for who I am, not what I can do. Perhaps that is at the core of every human. I'm free to do whatever the next right thing is. May God lead my steps.

I know a change is needed in the ways of business and in how we do things in Nepal. I want things to at least live on with our nonprofit. I believe when I go to Nepal next month, doors will open for us to be more hands-on with survivors in a holistic way. This is something I've drawn to and motivated by.

Continue to pray for me, if I can be bold to ask for it. Love you friend!

Peace, Katie