"My Cup Overflows"

In celebration of Women’s History month, I give thanks and praise for a sisterhood of women who have influenced me in immeasurable ways. Their stories are transformative and have changed my life and influenced our world. 

First and foremost, my Mom!  Most know her as Mrs. Williams. She has been with the ancestors for some time now, but she remains present in all that I do. Life lessons that she taught me have proven to reveal that she was right about everything, almost all of the time.  She taught me that Psalm 23 was my playbook for empowerment, risk-taking and peace of mind.  I invite you to look at it with me and see it as more conversation and commitment than a widely known Bible chapter and verse.  For instance, verse five, “You (the Lord) preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies, you anoint my head with oil, my cup runs overflows.” 

In preparation for some of my most difficult decisions and presentations, the 23^rd Psalm was my pep talk and promise.  This Psalm was Mom’s idea of how to make the worst of times and oppressive situations the catalyst for a good time to come.  My Mother was a fountain of love and wisdom. Her insight into the power of the word as a living and viable tool was her superpower.  I invite you to imagine your challenges around people, places or things aligned to Psalm 23 (link). I hope and pray that it works for you as profoundly as it has for me!

  Another woman I choose to celebrate is Marsha Haygood.  Recently she passed on but left us better humans because she was here.  Marsha was the most wonderful everything. Mom, wife, friend, colleague, coach and more.  She was the President and Founder of StepWise Associates, LLC, her dedicated practice of helping individuals and organizations thrive through intentional leadership, talent development, and transformative coaching. I credit Marsha for giving me some of the most sound and helpful finance guidance I have been given. 

Many years ago during a discussion on money matters she helped me honestly evaluate a want versus a need, spending versus saving consideration…her words, “Wendy, do you know what an asset is?  I will tell you what it is not.  An asset is not anything that you could put on your ass!”  My response, I laughed then decided to pass on the purchase of the most stunning pair of boots. I made a larger credit card payment instead. I have not forgotten that, and I will always remember her. 

Marsha’s most recent book, “The Next Little Black Book of Success” is her gift to us all. Consider your purchase your homework.

And last and certainly not least, on March 6th and 7th, as the Chicago Sinfonietta's Board Chair and fan I had the joy of celebrating a legendary and iconic sisterhood of women who created a masterpiece, the premiere of “STILL I RISE”, please take a look here:

The Chicago Sinfonietta is an orchestra that was founded on principle and intention to champion inclusion, innovation and excellence. Our Music Director, Mei-Ann Chen builds incredible symphonic experiences through masterful composing and collaborations. Our headline for the evening was, “watch a queen's story in music and dance.  Hear Women’s voices that stay with you”.  Join me on April 11^th at Chicago’s Epiphany Center for the Arts for the best party with a purpose, SOUNDSCAPE: IGNITE THE NIGHT.  It’s a gala, a fundraiser and a wonderful opportunity to meet Mei-Ann, members of our amazing orchestra and folks who love ALL kinds of music, great drinks and fun.  In the spirit of celebrating and helping an organization that promotes the progress and advancement of Women, click here.

Thank you, Wendy Lewis Founder & CEO Wendy Lewis LLC.

Creator of AllySHIFT™