we’re all heart

Our Inkandescent Intern Erin Li’s Empowered Together Network article is featured in South Asian Herald, “The Changing DEI Landscape: The Challenge of Finding Steady Footing”

Erin writes: I’m a first year student studying healthcare policy at the University of Pennsylvania, where I’ve been inspired to dig deeper into the complexities of our healthcare system. I’ve always believed that access to quality care is a basic human right, and my studies help me understand the legislative, economic, and social factors that affect who gets that care and why.

March-April 2025: Debbie Venus shares, “It’s never too late to find your purpose. I’m working on a memoir and by sharing my story, I hope my loved ones will gain a deeper understanding, and that at least one person—someone I may never meet—will find hope and strength through my experience.”

What advice do you have for others about creating your best life? Debbie says, "It’s never too late to find your purpose. I’m working on a memoir, and right now this project feels overwhelming. I have scraps of notes everywhere. It’s been years in the making, and as a relatively new writer, the process can feel daunting."

Ep3: Elaine’s Literary Salon – Meet Children’s book author Karen Leggett Abouraya and learn about her latest international pageturner, Zamzam

Zamzam is a young boy who enjoys life with Egyptian grandparents in Alexandria, Egypt, and American grandparents in New York City. He shares big and little differences in his daily experiences in each country – including phrases in Arabic and English — but ultimately realizes that the most important experiences are exactly the same​ across cultures.

The Power and Romance of Rosaries

Your “garland of roses” is the origin of the rosary, which comes from the Latin word rosarium. Holding it takes you on a prayerful journey, for your rosary transcends cultural and language barriers.

The Meaning of Malas

The word Mala means “garland” in Sanskrit. Typically made from wood, seed, bone or stone, these strings of prayer beads help to focus your awareness and concentration. Malas by Hope are the traditional string of 108 beads, with a larger “guru bead” to keep track of the repetitions of 108 and to evoke your connection to your highest power. What does the number 108 represent?

The Little City: “How many educators get to say that they have had an opportunity to work at every school in their school division? This is what makes Falls Church City so special.” — Allison Klink, Director of Early Childhood Education at Jessie Thackrey Preschool in FCCPS

Last year, I lined the halls with the staff and students at Mount Daniel, awaiting the arrival of the graduating class for their yearly tradition of walking the halls of all the city schools in caps and gowns. I knew I needed a prime spot as I excitedly waited for “The Mayor.” He was no longer the 7-year old boy who walked (or ran) in the building, he was an 18-year old man, but with the same charm and radiant smile.

September 2022: Preparing for Seasonal Blues

It’s September … we are nearing the transition from summer to fall. While we’re still baking in heat (at least I am here in DC), we can start to look ahead and prepare ourselves for the seasonal transition