Adorned in Self-Worth (Part 2)

Through the Adorned Campaign, Amanda’s main message for the youth is “you are more!” She addresses the vital differences between self-esteem and self-worth, referencing Dr. Christina Hibbert, clinical psychologist and author, who has stated that “self-esteem is what we think, feel and believe of ourselves. Self-worth is recognizing that we are greater than all of those things. It is a deep knowing that I am of value, necessary to this life, and of incomprehensible worth.” (Read Part 1 here.)

Amanda states, “It is possible to have high self-esteem but not be convinced that we are worthy or lovable. Self-esteem simply does not last unless we have self-worth. I believe self-worth, or the understanding of our worth, affects and impacts every decision that we make. If we see ourselves as worthy, we will pursue that dream, we will pursue that education, we will not settle for unhealthy relationships, or those toxic friendships. If we believe we are worthy, we can truly accomplish anything.”

You are more

The topic of “You Are More” focuses specifically on mental health, depression, self-harm, and self-worth. Amanda explains that throughout the program “we will encourage the girls in their worth and value as a person. We provide resources and a comfortable atmosphere for the girls to seek help and support.” They also discuss the trappings of comparison. Amanda shares a quote of Theodore Roosevelt, who said, “Comparison is the thief of joy.” She states, “If our self-esteem is always based on how we measure up, we will always struggle.”

Amanda says her hope for the Adorned Campaign is to make a difference in the lives of those who are hurting. “Suicide is one of the worst forms of loss. I want Harlie’s legacy to not be just one of loss and pain, but also one of overcoming and hope. If we only make a tiny mark on the world, we have accomplished so much. When coming beside teen girls in any community, we have to be real. We have to come with a love and compassion for one another that surpasses all of the ugly things this world has to offer.”

Adorned

Amanda is excited about what the future holds as she continues on this path to make a tangible difference in these beautiful lives she connects with. She says, “When someone has the courage to speak up about self-hate, healing begins.” She shares that they now have their message of worth, "You Are More," printed on t-shirts and band bracelets. “We wanted something visible on their wrists to serve as a reminder that there is another way; suicide is not the answer. We want to encourage them to talk to someone and, hopefully, choose not to harm themselves.”

She explains, “Each bracelet will go into the schools on the reservation. They will have a message attached to each one that will start the conversation of being more than our surroundings, our struggles, or our pasts. Each school counselor will have access to bracelets to give out throughout the year, in hopes that it will aide in their support of the girls. By having young girls wear the bracelets, we are addressing depression, self-harm, and suicide in a safe way.”

Amanda continues sharing her hope that “seeing other girls wearing the 'You Are More' bracelets lets them know that they are not alone. If we are truly going to help young girls in any community, we must not be afraid of hard conversations. We are surrounded by hurting people of all ages, genders, and races. We must not remain quiet by ignoring a hurting generation.”

All of us at Native Hope firmly believe in the power of collaboration. We are so excited about the "Adorned Campaign" and the message of hope it is bringing to the lives of Native American youth. It truly takes all of us working together to make a tangible impact.