Today we’d like to introduce you to Tori Lewis.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Tori. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
If I had to explain Con-Verse and Conversation, I would say dreams do come true and God has given us all Purpose!!! In 2015, I dreamed of Con-Verse and Conversation and once God gave me vision, all I had to do was walk in it. Quite naturally, I’ve always been easy to talk to, and the “go-to” person for advice or a listening ear. After going through my own test and trials, pain pushed me into my purpose. Originally, all this started as a birthday idea. I wanted to do something different. I had such a hard year, and I wanted to walk in a new year free of all the negative weight I was carrying. No hidden depression, no anxiety, no shame. My first test and trial were with a group of friends, in converse shoes, chatting about life, and what we’ve been through. We laughed and cried. It was liberating! I then established Con-Verse and Conversation in 2017 and created an Instagram account.
The goal was to share the freedom that I experienced and to serve as a constant reminder, that no one has to feel alone. I function as a support group that provides a safe place to talk, listen, encourage, and uplift others. I absolutely love what I do. Sitting among women of all walks of life, while bonding, facing their fears, and sharing their journey, brings me so much joy. Watching women overcome or leave inspired can’t be any more fulfilling than what I’ve experienced these past few years. I always remind any group, no matter the size, that I am only a vessel and they are the real victors. I believe that dream I had in 2015 was just God allowing me to see a sneak preview of my own destiny. Coming up with the name was pretty easy, because one of my favorite pair of shoes are Converse and I love Conversation, so I changed the wording to signify the word “verse”, because bible scriptures are what I stand on, to keep me lifted as I walk in my purpose.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Absolutely there are struggles! Anytime your purpose is centered around “Helping people”, expect chaos. It’s much easier to mind your business and selfishly walk this life, but the truth is we need each other. Hardly anyone knew (they know now, lol) that last year, as I was promoting, and pushing to be positive, I was going through complete Hell while working in corporate America. None of this began until I made the decision to change the way I perceived trials. It’s almost like when I decided to clean my heart from pain, heartbreak, failures and negativity, the one place I loved turned into a war zone. Now, it never turned physical, but it took my peace of mind hostage. It affected my energy and gave me anxiety from being exhausted mentally. I went in spreading love and togetherness, and the enemy didn’t like that. I pushed on and continued to pray for peace in hopes that the environment would change. I had to learn that everybody doesn’t desire peace and some have spoken dysfunction so long that it’s more familiar. I pressed on and Conversational Journey was birthed.
The plan was to journey through womanhood for the full year, covering peace of mind first. We would then meet on topics like motherhood, self-care, and finding time to celebrate life. This would all start in a small group over coffee, discussing peace of mind for January 2020. Well, December 2019, just weeks before I embarked on a new journey, I was let go from a company I was with for almost four years. God knew! By far, one of the best things that ever happened. Sometimes, God has to push you out. Otherwise, we will never move to the next chapter. I still met with a group over Coffee in January to discuss peace of mind. God was teaching me peace in the middle of the storm. I stood among that group happier than I had ever been, jobless, but full of peace. God has provided times ten. A new company offered me a new position with a higher salary. It’s perfect for working while trying to grow a business. It all worked for my good! I’ve learned pain is just your prerequisite for purpose. There’s really no way around it.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
Con-Verse and Conversation is a support group that promotes love, self-care, and encouragement. I provide a safe place to talk, one on one or in group meetings. The goal is that all women can sit at one table and have a conversation without feeling alone or judged. I’ve learned that healing is found in our testimonies, and we all can learn from each other. I plan to expand the conversations to include men and children, because we all need each other. Ultimately, we are stronger together. I think I’m most proud of the togetherness and lack of judgment as a group. The women I’ve met along this journey have been nothing short of loving and supportive. Friendships have grown from the groups. People are facing fears and taking the step to heal without fear or shame. I really don’t compare or attempt to be different. I think God does that. He knows who your people are! You will be just enough for them! I try to be consistent with providing a safe place while promoting love. Those that need it from me, I want to be sure to give it to them.
What were you like growing up?
Chatty-Mae was my nickname growing up, that wraps this one up! No, seriously, I was shy, believe it or not. I would only get chatty around people I was comfortable with. I’ve always been an easy-going, friendly person. My grandmother would tell me. I’d make friends with a tree. Lol!
Pricing:
- Con-Verse and Conversation T-Shirt $25
- Womanhood T-Shirt $25
- Womanhood Hoodie $35
- Walk & Release Event $35 (September 12, 2020)
Contact Info:
- Email: cconversation@yahoo.com
- Instagram: conversenconversation
- Facebook: Converse & Conversation
Image Credit:
Jeremy Cannon – Graphic Designer / Ebony Botchway – Photographer
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