We were lucky to catch up with Acetra Russell recently and have shared our conversation below.
Acetra, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
Dealing with the unimaginable loss of a child and working through the difficulties of a divorce, I stumbled upon a profound realization. It was during these challenging times that I discovered my purpose. Instead of letting the pain define me, I saw an opportunity to turn my experiences into something meaningful. It hit me: my story wasn’t just a collection of hardships; it was a calling to help others going through similar struggles. The journey through my own hurt and disappointment became the catalyst for a purposeful mission – to share my story so that it could serve as a source of healing for others. It was like a lightbulb moment; I realized that my experiences happened to me so I could connect with and support those on their own paths to healing. And that’s how I found my purpose – in the midst of my own pain, I discovered a way to bring hope and resilience to others.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I am the founder of Moving Mountain Ministries, where I proudly wear the hat of what I like to call a “Healing Coach”. As a Healing Coach, I’m passionate about guiding women on a journey to reclaim their self-identity and inspiring them to make a positive impact on others facing similar challenges.
What truly excites me about my work is witnessing the transformative journey each woman takes. It’s about rediscovering strength, purpose, and the ability to effect positive change not just in their own lives, but in the lives of other women. At Moving Mountain Ministries, we believe in the power of shared healing experiences and the strength of a supportive community.
At Moving Mountain Ministries, we offer a range of services designed to create a supportive community for women on their healing journey. Our signature 6-week group courses provide a space for like-minded women to come together, share experiences, and explore strategies to heal from common pain points. Picture it as a collective journey towards growth and empowerment.
For those who enjoy a touch of vintage charm, our vintage tea parties are perfect. Held at church women groups or social gatherings, these events offer a delightful blend of camaraderie and discussions around everyday life situations for women.
If you prefer a more personal touch, our virtual or in-person healing boards are a unique way to dive into affirmations and aspirations. It’s a visual journey of self-discovery and positivity, providing a daily dose of inspiration.
And for the book lovers among us, our book club is tailored to feature reads that contribute to healing the heart. We believe in the power of literature to inspire and guide us through the complexities of life.
We’re not just offering services; we’re crafting experiences that foster connection, growth, and healing for women everywhere.
I am also I’m one of the co-founders of Words and Wisdom Ministry LLP. My partner and I started this journey because we noticed a gap in the discussion about women in the Bible. There were incredible stories that often went unnoticed, and we were eager to learn more about them.
Our passion led us to create a curriculum tailored for Christian schools and universities. The exciting part is that our curriculum wasn’t just a project – it became the focus of our graduate thesis. Even more fulfilling was the opportunity to teach the course ourselves.
I’m thrilled to share some upcoming events where I’ll be pouring my heart into empowering others: Join me for a live and intimate conversation on Facebook with the Women of Destiny on February 20th. Catch me as a speaker at the Powerful on Purpose Summit in Columbia, SC, on February 24th. I’ll be among the many authors at the Books and Brunch event in Sumter, SC, on April 27th. And!!! Save the date for an amazing experience! I, along with three other amazing women, will be hosting our first Conference titled “The Power of WE Conference” at the Ridgecrest Conference Center in Black Mountain, NC, from October 25-27.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Reflecting on my own healing journey, three pillars truly stood out – resilience, the art of self-reflection, and the power of community.
Firstly, resilience became my anchor. Life’s challenges are inevitable, but building resilience was like unlocking my inner strength. It’s not about dodging difficulties; it’s about bouncing back with newfound strength. My advice for those embarking on their healing journey? View setbacks as setups for powerful comebacks. Every stumble is an opportunity to rise higher.
Next up, the practice of self-reflection. Delving into my thoughts and feelings opened a profound dialogue with myself. It’s like a heart-to-heart with your own soul. To those starting their journey, I recommend carving out regular moments for introspection. It’s in these quiet spaces that you discover your true self and pave the way forward.
Lastly, the magic of community played a pivotal role. Healing isn’t a solo endeavor; being part of a supportive community was a game changer. To fellow hearts on the mend, my advice is simple, surround yourself with those who uplift you. Share your victories, navigate challenges together, and witness the power of collective strength.
For those commencing their journey towards healing – fortify your resilience, embrace self-reflection, and find peace in a supportive community. You’ve got this! Remember, it’s not just about reaching the destination; every step of the heart’s journey holds significance. Embrace, learn, and move forward – your strength is immeasurable.
Thanks so much for sharing all these insights with us today. Before we go, is there a book that’s played in important role in your development?
The book that played an important role in my development is undoubtedly “100% Healed: A Mother’s Journey of Moving Mountains to Heal the Heart from Death and Divorce” – a journey that was as much about writing it as it was about living it.
Crafting this book became my sanctuary for vulnerability and healing. Pouring my story onto the pages allowed me to confront the rawest corners of my journey – the pain, the loss, and the triumphs. In the act of writing, I found a therapeutic release, a cathartic unraveling of emotions that had long been dormant.
It wasn’t just about sharing my experiences; it was about embracing them, acknowledging the scars, and allowing them to transform into stories of resilience and strength. The process of penning down my narrative became a journey of self-discovery, and in that vulnerability, I found the strength to heal.
“100% Healed” is not just a book; it’s a testament to the power of storytelling as a tool for personal growth and collective healing. It’s a reminder that our stories, no matter how painful, can be the catalyst for transformation – both for the writer and the reader. In opening up my heart on those pages, I discovered a profound sense of healing and a connection to others who resonated with the journey.
So, in essence, this book isn’t just a creation; it’s a living, breathing part of my healing journey. It’s a reminder that vulnerability is not weakness; it’s a source of incredible strength. And in sharing my story, I hope to inspire others on their paths toward healing, resilience, and the courage to move mountains.
Contact Info:
- Website: acetrarussell.com
- Instagram: @acetrarussell
- Facebook: Acetra Dee Russell
- Linkedin: Acetra Russell
Image Credits
Denise Washington Photography LLC
