Cheryl Maloney of
Simple Steps Real Change
Originally Posted: July 22, 2010
I'd like to introduce you all to our first guest on our Living Visions segment here on Fresh Connect.
I have known Cheryl (for what seems like a very long time) for a little under a year. I first came across her Simple Steps Real Change page here on Facebook. I remember I was very impressed with her unique vision of the world and the positive energy she would exude around others. She seemed to live for a purpose higher than herself, striving to improve the lives of others in whatever way she could.
My hope is that you will come to better understand her mission with Simple Steps Real Change and that you might be touched by her unique spirit in this short interview she has graciously agreed to.
How would you describe your personality, and what do you feel is your unique contribution to the world?
My personality has evolved over the last few years as I have experienced challenges & tragedies. It is in these experiences that I’ve gained patience, respectfulness and appreciation for every element of life.
My unique contribution lies in my belief that we are all shepherds here to help each other.
What is your fondest memory of your childhood?
My grandfather worked in the steel mills in Pennsylvania. I remember visiting him at work and seeing this 65-year-old man side by side with young men wrangling an errant rail wheel back onto the line. It was at that moment that I realized that I wanted to be the same type of person. The person that others could count on to do whatever was necessary regardless of my position.
We often are told that we have a child inside of every one of us. Is there still a child inside of Cheryl, and how do you think it shows itself from time to time? In what way do you treat that little child inside?
The child inside of me is trusting and hopeful. She shows herself at times mostly when others are hurting. I’m the one bringing the single flower just to say “you are loved.” I treat her as I do any other person…with encouragement to do what is in her heart.
What is your favorite activity when letting go of your busy schedule?
I read anything inspirational that I can get my hands on. I believe that we all receive our messages differently and I’m on a mission to learn more. That is relaxing to me.
Do you have a special place in which you like to read, think and/or meditate?
We have a very long driveway that curves around the back of our yard. I like to sit at the farthest point and look back towards our home because home is where my heart is.
What is your favorite quote?
That’s a hard one. I draw inspiration from so many good quotes. The one I live by has been attributed to many authors. It is, “Happiness is a choice.” I believe that and live that every day. Despite the challenges in my life, I believe that each one provides a lesson and when I look for the lesson I can find happiness even in the worst of times.
What one person in history captivates you? What one person in history do you have the deepest respect for - Who is your hero?
My Grandfather Colley… He’s the one I mentioned above. He would give to others even if it meant that his family had less. He believed that giving, whether it was his time or money, was both his honor & his duty as a person.
What is your favorite type of food?
Homemade Pepperoni Pizza and if I have a sweet tooth, caramel.
Do you have any pet peeves?
Disrespectful people. We don’t have to agree…but we owe every person the same respect that we want for ourselves.
What three things do you value most in your life?
My family, which includes my pets; my ability to figure anything out; my passion for helping others.
Where do you see yourself in 5 yrs?
Living in Oregon and sharing the message of Simple Steps… Real Change & Good Happens on an international basis.
What do you feel is your ultimate purpose being here on Earth?
My purpose is to help others find their happiness.
What motivates you to pursue your dreams?
I’m motivated by the belief that life is meant to be happy.
What would be your ideal world?
My ideal world is one in which the media reports primarily good news…and we see the scales of life tip over to the side of positivity.
If and when you ever find yourself struggling with life, from where do you draw the most strength and why?
The last few years of my life have been challenging and stressful. I have lost just about every “thing” in my life. I still have my health, my family & my ability to deal with whatever comes my way. Others don’t have that much… I draw my strength when I focus on helping others and not on my issues.
If you could change anything about your life, what would you change and why?
I would never have moved away from my home in the Pacific Northwest. I miss the majesty of the mountains and Puget Sound. It was there that I felt at peace.
- - - - -
Tell us a little bit about your mission with Simple Steps Real Change…
The mission at Simple Steps… Real Change is to support and inspire people to focus on the positive aspects of life. As we look for the good and express gratitude our world opens up to even more positivity.
How would you like to see it improve this next year?
In the next year our focus is to expand our reach so to speak…to share the love, support and inspiration beyond our website & Facebook page.
Do you have any goals for SSRC?
Yes! Our immediate goal is to gather in excess of 100,000 friends on Facebook. In that time we plan to reach out to schools & churches with the “Good Happens” message and expand our support network with local chapters.
Is there anything you would like to say to our Fresh Connect Members and/or to the rest of the World at large?
I’d like to say Thank you to all of the like-minded souls that are spreading the word that “Good Happens.” And to the residents of the world at large I’d like to say that whatever you are going through…you are not alone! Come join our community. Find support, inspiration & love. We are all on this journey together.
- - - - -
From all of us here at Fresh Connect, we'd like to thank Cheryl for sharing her time with us. Peace, Love & many blessing to you on your journey of inspiring others.
0 comments:
Post a Comment