Episode 4: The Power of Kindness & Love: Lessons from Khloe Thompson, Wangari Maathai, and Beverly Bond of Black Girls Rock!

Written By AMBER SESSOMS

In this episode of Living in 3D Power, Emma and I honor Black History Month by exploring the transformative strengths of kindness and love. We reflect on how Black women and girls have historically embodied these traits as a form of resistance, healing, and leadership.

This episode is part of a special series that highlights one Black girl, one ancestor, and one present-day Black woman who exemplifies Emma’s strengths. Each conversation connects the past, present, and future, showing how these figures use their gifts to impact their communities.

We highlight the impactful work of Khloe Thompson, a young philanthropist addressing houselessness through Khloe Kares; Wangari Maathai, a Nobel Prize-winning environmental activist whose Green Belt Movement empowered communities through sustainability; and Beverly Bond, the visionary behind Black Girls Rock!, which uplifts and affirms the brilliance of Black girls and women.

Our conversation also delves into bell hooks’ philosophy of love, exploring how her call for a love ethic challenges us to embrace care, commitment, trust, responsibility, respect, and knowledge in our everyday lives. Through personal reflections, Emma shares her own experiences with kindness and how young people can actively contribute to their communities.

Chapters

02:44 – Reflecting on Trauma and Resilience

04:09 – The Importance of Self-Care

05:12 – Highlighting Figures of Love and Kindness

07:35 – Emma’s Insights on Love and Kindness

09:03 – bell hooks and the Philosophy of Love

19:08 – Emma’s Top Strengths: Kindness and Love

24:59 – Khloe Thompson and Khloe Kares

27:35 – Khloe’s Bags: Spreading Kindness Locally and Globally

29:44 – Wangari Maathai: Environmental Activism and Global Impact

36:21 – Beverly Bond: Empowering Black Girls Through Leadership

40:31 – Reflecting on Lessons of Kindness and Activism

41:50 – Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Curiosity Card Prompts for Reflection

  • How can a young person like me take small actions that create big change in my community?

  • What role does environmental activism play in showing love and care for the world?

  • Why is recognizing and celebrating Black girls and women so important?

  • How can I plan to spread kindness and love?

Resources Mentioned

Connect with Amber

Like, Comment, Share, Engage

If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who would love these conversations. Engage with the Curiosity Cards and ask the youth in your life about their experiences—you might be surprised by what you learn. Share your thoughts and reflections in the comments or on social media using #LivingIn3DPower. And, don’t forget to subscribe and stay tuned for next week’s conversation!

AMBER SESSOMS
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Episode 5: The Power of Transcendence: Lessons from Powerhouse Singers Kierra Sheard, Aretha Franklin, and Beyoncé
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Episode 3: The Power of Strength: How Our Strengths Shape Us, Even When the World Tries to Erase Us