So this is a question I have really pondered. Not just for my own curiosity, but for those who will certainly want to know the answer themselves.
You see, I had developed these two very specific products through my aromatherapy practice—a face serum and a foot balm—with the intent that they would come with instructions on facial and foot reflexology. The purpose would be to take 5 minutes and not just use these products for their benefits to your face and feet, but to mindfully engage in self-care. I feel strongly that this is a much-needed practice for so many women today.
But then I came across a product from Thistle Farms, and suddenly my straightforward products became so much more. Thistle Farms is this barn-buster organization in Nashville, Tennessee, that supports and empowers women trafficking survivors. These survivors make amazing natural body products (I know—I visited their store last year and scrutinized the labels!) in a process known as a social enterprise. Now I knew I couldn’t launch a social enterprise overnight with two products. But I could make them mission-driven products that support two local organizations that do this important work in Northwest Ohio. So Rose + Joy was born!
But I still haven’t answered the question: “Why do I care?” I am grateful that this horrible reality of human trafficking has not intersected with my life in any way. But what I have learned through attending Thistle Farm’s conference, as well as the International Human Trafficking & Social Justice Conference in Toledo, is that these people are often robbed of a voice…sometimes because they can’t find a way to speak up for themselves, and sometimes because we just don’t want to hear them. There are so many causes out there that are more comfortable and even more manageable than this one. And maybe that’s the reason to support it. These women need a louder voice from all parts of our society, including me. And if my practice is based on the principle that natural wellness is for everyone and everyone is worthy of that wellness, then who better to benefit from this principle than these women? And what better inducement to starting your own self-care practice than knowing you are helping another woman realize that there are people out there who care – even if we don’t know your name or your story?
