Meet Kirsten – She is the mother of three grown children, is a world traveler and adventurer, and has worked to build The Happy Children’s Centre- a school and home for AIDS orphans in Kenya. Kirsten helped to bring in art projects to children living on the garbage dump in Guatemala City and gave up her day job working for the President of Pacific University to return to Portland State for her Master’s Degree in Social Work. Not only has she had her own floral business, but has also ran a non-profit art school for children in the Bay area. She is an amazing role model and great and giving friend to all who are fortunate enough to know her. We thank you, Kirsten!
What makes you feel fabulous?
I love being able to help other people discover their own creative beauty and tap into the transformative and healing power of art. Each time I have been able to share this experience it feels so intensely joyful that it seems energetically like rainbows are pouring down all around me. I also feel fabulous whenever I am snorkeling, boogie-boarding, or dancing salsa with a good partner.
What is your favorite age & why?
Now is good (although I wish I had the body I had thirty years ago). I feel I have lived enough life to be interesting and a little wiser. I trust my intuition and act upon it. I am grateful for my health, strength and resilience. My children are grown and so I have more freedom to explore and create my own life. I have a wonderful array of friends who have been true to me and grown with me over the course of many years.
How do you “flourish”?
I am restored, rejuvenated and nurtured by spending time in nature, whether it is in my garden weeding (which feels oddly therapeutic) or hiking, or being in the ocean. Traveling is also a way for me to thrive, satisfy my insatiable curiosity, and remember who my essential self is.
What was the biggest pivotal event in your life?
Actually, there were probably at least three: 1) Moving to Oregon in 1977 to a log cabin in the woods without any electricity or plumbing. 2) Birth of my first child in 1982. 3) Quitting my job in 2004 and doing a service project in Guatemala.
What inspires you?
People who are unafraid to speak out against injustice and act on their convictions; who are moved to work for the greater good, no matter the uncertainty of the outcome.
