How Did PACK Begin?
The catalyst for PACK is my son, Sammy. One of Sammy’s nicknames is Sunshine Boy. It is a perfect name for this two-year-old- brilliant, beautiful, and charming, joy-to-the-world. Sammy is the most important focus in my life. He has been since the instant we met. I remember holding him moments after he was born, overflowing with intense love, gratitude, and responsibility for this tiny, beautiful person.
Within the first few weeks of his life, these feelings were so overwhelming at times, that all I could do was look at him and weep in thanksgiving and trepidation. I remember thinking he is so perfect; I don’t want to ruin him. I want to guide him through this beautiful, wonderful, challenging adventure. I want to instill in him a deep love, passion and curiosity for life. I want to arm him with a strong sense of self, respect for the journeys of others, personal responsibility, and a sense of the interconnected nature of the universe.
This feeling of responsibility was transforming. It caused me to intentionally recognize the elements of my life that are of the most importance, my philosophy of life, my journey towards self actualization, the holistic knowledge and experiences that have helped me on my own life path. It caused me to embrace all that I have learned as a creative studies student to address this lifelong challenging opportunity. It strengthened the holistic understanding of my own beliefs about creativity; that creativity is a way of life, a choice in perception and vehicle for actualization. In essence, this feeling of responsibility for Sammy affirmed my purpose in life, both as his mother and as a human being.
As a student of creative studies, I have learned firsthand the transformational power of creativity. I have learned techniques for addressing challenges and opportunities in proactive ways. I have come to understand that creativity can be a way of approaching and living life, a philosophy. All of these learning experiences have shaped me into the person that I am. Creativity has transformed my life in beautiful ways. I realized that the guidance I wanted to offer Sammy throughout his life is deeply rooted in the philosophy of creativity. This realization focused my career vision within the field of creative studies. It led to the vision of PACK, a place for families to grow creatively.
The Vision
The ultimate vision of PACK is to provide families across the country support and opportunities to nurture creativity in their homes. The bedrock mission of PACK, and my life mission, is to serve in the process of self-actualization. Nurturing creativity is the service. If we can holistically nurture creativity from birth…we can transform the world. PACK began with my Sunshine Boy, the light of my life. It is my hope that it will develop into a light for families, communities, and society.
