This morning I had the honor of being invited into Paige Elementary’s Girls Conference to lead a restorative listening circle using “listening stones.”
In the middle of a loud, joy-filled cafeteria, small groups of girls gathered around a simple practice: one person speaks, everyone else listens.
We talked about bravery and kindness. About what makes a good friend. About what they want to be when they grow up.
And then I asked each girl what they would say to encourage all the other girls at the table… they said things like:
“Don’t ever try to be someone else.”
“You are all beautiful.”
“Even when things get hard, keep going.”
Given the space, they didn’t need to be taught what empowerment sounds like...
they were already carrying it.
Some girls lit up at the chance to share.
Some chose to listen quietly. Every girl's voice was honored. Every story mattered.
I’m so grateful for opportunities like this. Partnerships like this one has been especially meaningful. To be able partner with our local school and create spaces where children are heard, and to remind them (and myself too) that their voices are powerful!
Also, a full circle moment: one of the first students who sat down with me was a girl who attended our VBS last year! What a gift to see those connections continue. 
It was a beautiful morning of listening, courage, and community.
