Hi Friends,
Welcome to this week’s issue of The Advocate Next Door—your guide to living with intention, connection, and care.
This week, I want to honor the quiet strength of Gisèle Pelicot. After surviving years of unimaginable abuse and rape, she stood up in court and spoke her truth. Her bravery didn’t just hold her abusers accountable (her ex-husband included)—it sparked conversations around justice, consent, and what it really means to support survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence.
For those of us living in Ohio, let me just remind you: Ohio didn’t close its spousal rape loophole until this year. Yes, 2024. A law wasn’t passed until this year making it illegal to drug and sexually assault your spouse. Think about that.
Gisèle’s story reminds us that creating change doesn’t always come from loud declarations or grand gestures. Sometimes, it’s the tiniest spark—a conversation, a choice, or a moment of connection—that ignites something greater.
🎯 Small Good Things: Tiny Sparks, Big Change
Here’s the deal: Too often, we brush off the smallest actions, thinking they’re too insignificant to matter. But these sparks—small, thoughtful gestures that radiate kindness and connection—are the foundation for transformative change.
Small good things don’t ask you to take on more. Instead, they invite us to live out our values in ways that feel natural, joyful, and real.
So, here’s what those sparks can look like this week:
Give: Columbus shelters are in crisis as pandemic funds dry up. A small donation to the Community Shelter Board, LSS Choices, or YWCA Columbus can help provide meals, warm beds, and safety for families and survivors who need it most.
Connect: Talk to your kids about consent with books like C is for Consent by Eleanor Morrison. It’s a fun, age-appropriate way to teach them about boundaries and respect. This book is in my family’s library. But, you can grab a copy on Bookshop and support local bookstores while you’re at it. (Double points for that—whoo-hoo!)
Share: Spread the word! Share this article about Gisèle Pelicot’s story with your group chat or on social media to spark meaningful conversations about justice and consent.
These small good things may seem tiny, but trust me—their ripple effect is huge. When we make these moments a regular part of our lives, we become the change we want to see.
✅ Reflect: Living Out Your Values
Alright, so here’s my challenge for you this week: Take a moment to reflect on how you’re living your values.
For me, I have a weekly reminder on my calendar to pause and think about love, kindness, and grace—my core values. It’s simple, but it keeps me grounded and helps me align my actions with what truly matters.
What are your values? And how can you infuse them into your daily life, one small good thing at a time?
💛 Closing Note
Gisèle’s story reminds us of the extraordinary power of the ordinary. Small good things, lived out with heart and intention, can build a stronger, more connected world.
Let’s spark something beautiful together this week. Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, Happy Winter Solstice, Hanukkah, and all the good joy and cheer for everyone!
Cheering for you always,
Sophia
Share this post