In episode 29, I had the honor to interview published Author & speaker Mary Hodder Ross about honoring our life choices as “unnatural” as they might be so that we can have self-compassion and live an unapologetic life. We talk about self-worth, forgiveness and rising from the ashes to -like the phoenix- illuminate other people’s path to serve the greater good of all.
Mary Hodder Ross is an author, writer, and poet. Last year, she published her memoir as her first book. She tells us her story who as a young woman that gave up a child for adoption. That one decision changed her and the direction of her life. She kept what happened a secret for 30 years, taking on shame, regret, and sadness in a lonely plight to not reveal the truth for fear of ridicule.
She tells us that “I chose to finally write and tell my story because as a mature woman I realize that women are great keepers of secrets when we think the world will judge us harshly. We’d rather struggle in silence than heal. We’d rather hear the unbearable than being whole. I chose to shine a light on my story because it is the untold story of so many who deserve to be heard, to be seen and to be understood. My book is called An Unnatural Choice.”
Mary ultimately believes that her message is a powerful inspiration to women and I absolutely agree. Being whole and living openly and honestly is transformational. It frees us and gives us joy. It connects us to our best selves and allows us to do great things in service to others. Ms Ross’s story has been touching lives and making a difference in ways she never expected, for which she is truly grateful.
Are you ready to honor your choices no matter what and start living unapologetically?
With the greatest courage, Let's dive in!
Karem E Mieses, MST
Productivity Expert | Change Agent | Organization Ninja SHOW NOTES/ RESOURCES
===========
A note from Mary Hodder Ross
1. I wrote my book first and foremost for my son that I gave up for adoption with the intent that he can know his story and with the hope that I will one day meet him.
2. I also wrote my book for other women - women who carry shame, sadness and regret in secret and often alone. I want to share my story with them. Inspire them to tell their own.
3. I want to shine a light on the frequently untold story of the birth mother and start a worldwide conversation from our perspective.
4. I want to let women see that we can be better, stronger and happier when we live honestly and authentically.
5. I want to reach women who are waiting to open up, who need someone like me to show them they are not alone.
What we hide serves no one and destroys our inner sense of worthiness. It limits us. It leaves us feeling less-than.
When we reveal our secrets others show up to say "me too" and we heal one another through admission and the release of hidden pain.”
