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Hey Reader,

Over the past few weeks, I’ve been talking a lot about what it means to walk in the light — to live freely in who we’ve been called to be, even when the world celebrates something different.

So with Halloween right around the corner, I’ve been reflecting on what it means to actually be the light — especially as a mom raising little ones in a world that often glorifies the opposite.

Because honestly?

As much as I enjoy a good opportunity to transform through dressing up, I can’t get behind what this particular holiday glorifies…

Death, fear, darkness — and an open invitation for the enemy to do his work out in the open. 😬

Growing up, I never celebrated Halloween. We didn’t go trick-or-treating, wear costumes, or attend parties.

At the time, I chalked it up to my Nigerian parents not “getting it,” or being “extra” – but now, as a mom and woman of faith, I see it differently.

I see it clearly.

And I’m so grateful for the discernment and faith-grounded example they modeled for me and my siblings.

Flipping FOMO on its head…

A few weeks ago, a friend of Arria’s invited her to go trick-or-treating. My gut reaction was “no, mam”!

… but then I felt a twinge of guilt.

I wondered, if she would feel left out? Would she miss out on time with her friends? Would she resent me as she gets older and heard me politely decline certain invitations she’ll receive?

Thankfully we serve a God that is ALIVE and active – because almost immediately after these thoughts, The Holy Spirit nudged me: This isn’t a moment to grieve missing out, it could be an opportunity.

An opportunity not just to say “no,” to her sweet friend’s invitation, but an opportunity to share why.

Why we don’t celebrate darkness…

And how we can still show up in JOY and community by celebrating light.

instead of sitting Halloween out, we’re creating something new:

✨ Light + Life Giving Kits! ✨

On October 31st, I have an idea to hand out: 50–100 mini “kits” with Bible keychains, Life Savers candies (get it? 😏), stickers and handwritten notes from kids about the love and light of Jesus.

The day’s mission: To be the light on a day that glorifies darkness.

A couple messages back, I shared that the Lord placed Isaiah 61 on my heart — as a sort of mission statement for this next season of The JOYrney To Purpose®.

It’s a call to rebuild, restore, and renew places (and people) that have been devastated/struggling internally (sometimes even unknowingly).

But it starts right where we are — at home, with our families, and in our communities.

So this isn’t just about saying “no” to Halloween — it’s a reminder to live with intention by saying “yes” to our purpose (of worshiping and glorifying God daily) – while being the kind of light the world desperately needs.

How You Can Partner With Us

If this message speaks to you — and you’d like to help us bring this vision to life — I’d love to invite you to partner with us in preparing the Light + Life Giving Kits.

Your contribution will go directly toward materials for the kits (mini Bibles, keychains, candy, and supplies).

You can give here:

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I’ll be sure to keep you updated and let you know how it goes. And if you’re not able to give right now, I’d still love to hear from you!

How do you and your family navigate Halloween?

Do you celebrate — or find your own creative ways to shine light in the darkness?

Hit reply and let me know — I’d love to hear from you. With JOY + (a whole lotta) Light!

We’re On the JOYrney™ together… ONE feel-good thing at a time!
Erica ​

The JOYrney To Purpose® Podcast

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Have you listened to the newest episode of The JOYrney To Purpose® Podcast yet?

This week, I’m joined by Nicole Walters-Csillag, NYT bestselling author, consultant, and media personality — and y’all, this conversation is one you’ll feel in your soul.

From boardrooms to baby bottles, from hustle to healing — Nicole gets real about motherhood, marriage, entrepreneurship, and what it means to rest when the world tells you to run.

If you’ve been feeling stretched thin or standing at a crossroads wondering “what’s next,” this is your permission slip to pause – because sometimes, rest is the strategy.

(or wherever you get your podcasts!)

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Work With Me!

If you’re ever curious, here are a few ways I can support your JOYrney™

Speaking & Corporate Consulting Bring the JOYrney™ to your organization/workplace! Where does your company’s culture stand? ​Take the JOY-Culture Diagnostic to find out!

Coaching Are you a woman of faith seeking a plan for personal guidance and JOY in “what’s next” (i.e., motherhood, divorce, career pivot)? Complete the JOYrney™ coaching application

Reflect on your JOYrney™! Align your personal/professional goals with JOYful intention and FUN. Use the JOYrney Daily™ Planner to clarify your purpose and implement a solid strategy for bringing the vision to life! ​Order JOYrney Daily™ Planner​ ​

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