Have you ever experienced a moment so unexpectedly beautiful that it shifts your entire perspective? Recently, tour boat passengers in the pristine waters of Patagonia, Argentina, were treated to such a moment—a graceful whale approached their boat, greeting them like an old friend. You can watch this magical encounter here.

Now, you might be wondering, what does a whale in the wild have to do with your personal fertility journey? Believe it or not, everything.

The Power of Unexpected Joy

When you’re navigating the often-challenging road to conception, it’s easy to get caught up in schedules, tests, and treatments. The process can sometimes feel clinical, stressful, and isolating. But moments like that whale’s visit serve as gentle reminders that life’s greatest blessings often come when you least expect them.

That surprise encounter was a vivid reminder: nature is full of miracles, and so is your body. The journey to parenthood isn’t always predictable, but it is always full of hope.

Why Emotional Wellness Is Crucial on Your Path to Conception

Stress and anxiety can take a heavy toll on fertility. Studies show that emotional wellness significantly impacts reproductive health. So how can you cultivate hope and calm in a time of uncertainty?

  • Embrace Moments of Wonder: Like the whale’s unexpected greeting, look for small joys in your day-to-day life. Whether it’s a sunrise, a kind text, or a peaceful walk, these moments recharge your spirit.

  • Build a Supportive Routine: Incorporate mindfulness, meditation, or gentle yoga to ease tension and build resilience.

  • Connect with Compassionate Resources: Whether it’s online communities, therapists, or fertility specialists, support is key.

Bringing the Journey Home: Empowerment Through Accessible Solutions

For many, the next step in their fertility journey might involve exploring different methods of conception—sometimes from the comfort and privacy of home.

This is where innovative resources like MakeAMom’s at-home insemination kits come into play. Designed with sensitivity to diverse needs, their kits offer accessible, cost-effective options that respect your privacy and unique situation. Whether it’s overcoming low sperm motility or accommodating personal health conditions, these tools are empowering options that align with your journey.

What Can We Learn From a Whale’s Visit?

  • Patience: Just as the whale’s appearance was unhurried and gentle, patience is a vital virtue during fertility pursuits.

  • Connection: The whale’s greeting was a reminder that connection—whether with nature, a partner, or support networks—is powerful.

  • Hope: In the face of uncertainty, hope is the beacon that guides us.

Your Fertility Journey: Embrace the Unexpected

No two journeys are alike, but every journey benefits from moments of wonder and hope. Take time to notice the unexpected joys around you—they might just be the gentle nudges your heart and body need.

So, what unexpected miracles have brightened your path lately? How do you keep hope alive when things feel uncertain? Share your stories and thoughts below—because together, we build the strongest support.

Remember, your path is unique, and with the right combination of emotional wellness, effective tools, and inspired hope, you’re moving closer to your dream of parenthood every day.

Have you ever felt like life’s toughest moments might just break you? When New York City Mayor Eric Adams spoke at the funeral of NYPD officer Didarul Islam, his words carried a raw, aching sorrow that resonates deeply with anyone who’s faced loss or overwhelming challenges. He shared the heartbreaking pain of parents burying their children—a reality so profound, it shakes the very core of hope and faith.

But here’s the twist: in the darkest shadows of grief, there’s a surprising kind of strength—a beacon of resilience that can light the way forward.

What can this teach us about the journey to parenthood?

For many, the path to becoming a parent isn’t just a simple hope—it’s a test of endurance filled with emotional ups and downs, doubts, and deeply personal struggles. Whether you’re facing infertility, navigating home-based conception, or simply dreaming of holding your baby one day, the emotional weight can feel just as heavy as any other form of heartbreak.

Mayor Adams’ reflections remind us that acknowledging pain is the first step—not the end—of hope. It’s okay to feel the heartache, but don’t let it define your story. Instead, let it fuel a new kind of courage.

Embracing Emotional Wellness on Your Fertility Journey

So, how do you harness grief and turn it into strength? Here are some uplifting strategies:

  • Allow Yourself to Feel: Sometimes, healing starts with simply telling your story and giving your emotions permission to come forward.
  • Seek Support Networks: Surround yourself with people who truly understand your journey—friends, counselors, or communities devoted to fertility and emotional wellness.
  • Incorporate Mindfulness: Simple meditation or breathing exercises can ease overwhelming anxiety and help you stay centered.
  • Celebrate Small Victories: Every ovulation tracked, every hopeful test, every moment you decide to try again is a win.

But what if medical visits aren’t always accessible or comfortable? This is where innovative solutions come into play.

Taking Control at Home: A Revolutionary Approach to Fertility

Not everyone’s fertility journey feels safe or convenient at a clinic, and that’s perfectly okay. The transformative power of home insemination kits is opening new doors—offering privacy, comfort, and control.

Organizations like MakeAMom have pioneered kits designed for different needs—whether you’re dealing with low sperm motility, sensitivities, or simply want a reusable, discreet, and cost-effective option. Their approach reflects an understanding that emotional wellness and practical support must go hand in hand.

You might ask, “Does this really work?” MakeAMom reports an impressive 67% success rate, which offers real hope for those longing to grow their families in a way that feels nurturing and personal.

Finding Hope in Unexpected Places

Mayor Adams’ poignant speech reminds us that life’s challenges—no matter how heartbreaking—do not have to crush our spirit. Similarly, your fertility journey, with all its complexities, can become a testament to your resilience and hope.

Imagine turning setbacks into stories of strength, loneliness into supportive community, and uncertainty into empowered action.

Are you ready to embrace this strength?

Let grief teach you empathy, let hope guide your heart, and let innovative resources like home insemination kits empower your path toward parenthood.

If this resonates with you, consider exploring more about home insemination options and the supportive community behind them at MakeAMom’s website. Your journey is unique, and you don’t have to walk it alone.


What’s your story? Share your thoughts and experiences below—let’s inspire each other to find hope in even the darkest of times.

And for those moved by Mayor Adams’ words, watch his heartfelt tribute here: WATCH: New York City Mayor Eric Adams speaks at NYPD officer’s funeral.

Remember when society told us the ‘bounce back’ after pregnancy was the ultimate goal? Yeah, let’s just say Emily Ricketts, a personal trainer who gained over 50 pounds during pregnancy, is here to tell you: that pressure is so last decade. In a refreshing and inspiring article from Business Insider, Emily shares how being kind to herself and embracing the beginner’s mindset made her postpartum fitness journey not just bearable but way more enjoyable. You can check out her full story here. But why does this matter to anyone trying to conceive or navigating early parenthood? Well, let’s unpack that.

Have you ever been caught off guard by the sheer power of truth? In the whirlwind of our digital age, moments of honesty and accountability often shine brightest — even in the most unexpected places. Recently, a viral political exchange between California Governor Gavin Newsom and former President Donald Trump reminded us all how facing facts head-on can flip the narrative entirely. But what does this have to do with your fertility journey? More than you might think.

On July 2025, Newsom brought undeniable receipts to counter Trump’s denial regarding a controversial topic, illustrating the undeniable strength of confronting reality with evidence. This public display of truth-telling is not just a political spectacle; it's a metaphor for the fertility journey many individuals and couples experience daily. Facing the challenges of conception, especially when traditional clinical routes feel overwhelming or inaccessible, requires that same courage and determination to seek truth and alternative solutions.

Why is honesty so crucial when trying to conceive?

Sometimes, the hardest step is admitting to ourselves that the path to parenthood might be different from what we imagined. It’s okay to feel uncertain, to explore options, and to ask for help. Just like Newsom's undeniable proof changed the conversation, acknowledging your fertility realities can empower you to take control and open doors to new possibilities.

This is where innovative approaches like home insemination come into play. Companies like MakeAMom offer discreet and scientifically designed insemination kits, transforming the way people conceive outside clinical settings. Whether you’re addressing specific challenges such as low sperm motility or conditions like vaginismus, their reusable kits like CryoBaby, Impregnator, and BabyMaker provide personalized solutions that make the dream of parenthood more achievable from the comfort of your home.

Feeling empowered to try at-home insemination? Here’s why it might be the game-changer you need:

  • Privacy and comfort: No need to feel exposed in clinical environments.
  • Cost-effective: Reusable kits mean fewer expenses over time.
  • Tailored solutions: Different kits for unique fertility challenges.
  • Promising success rates: An impressive average success rate of 67% puts hope within reach.

But beyond tools and kits, the fertility journey demands emotional strength — a willingness to face uncertainty and a commitment to yourself and your future baby. The Newsom vs. Trump episode reminds us that when faced with denial or setbacks, armed with truth and bravery, we can rewrite our stories.

Here are 3 ways to harness this powerful mindset today:

  1. Be your own advocate. Seek information, ask questions, and trust your instincts.
  2. Embrace alternatives. Fertility is not one-size-fits-all — explore options that fit your lifestyle.
  3. Lean into community. Share your journey, find support, and uplift others.

The road to conception is often winding and filled with surprises. But the core truth is simple: you’re not alone, and hope is real. Let moments like the Newsom revelation inspire you to stand firm, seek your truth, and empower your journey with knowledge and innovation.

If you’re curious about how modern at-home methods can complement your path, explore resources that combine science with compassion. For instance, MakeAMom’s thoughtful approach in designing tailored kits could be the supportive companion you need.

Finally, let me leave you with this: What truths are you ready to face today that could transform your fertility journey? The first step to change is often the bravest — and the most rewarding. Share your thoughts below, and let’s keep this conversation going. After all, in this community, every truth told brings us closer to the miracles we seek.

Inspired by the recent political spotlight on truth and accountability — read the original story here: Gavin Newsom Brought The Receipts After Trump Claimed He "Never Wrote A Picture" In Response To The Epstein Files, And It's Sooo Good

Have you ever felt like your fertility journey is an emotional enigma, full of highs and lows, hope and uncertainty? You’re not alone. Recently, Lorde’s fourth studio album, Virgin, has been making waves—not just for its haunting sound but for its raw exploration of internal mystery and self-acceptance. If you thought her music was just for the charts, think again. It’s becoming an emotional anthem for people navigating deeply personal paths, including the path to conception.

I stumbled upon an article on Hypebeast about ‘Virgin’ (you can check it out here) and was struck by how the themes of vulnerability, renewal, and embracing the unknown mirror the emotional landscape of trying to conceive. Whether you’re just starting preconception planning or have been on this journey for a while, the feelings Lorde sings about in Virgin might just echo your own.

The Emotional Rollercoaster of Trying to Conceive

Trying for a baby at home, especially through methods like at-home insemination, isn’t just about biology—it’s about emotional resilience. You face moments of hope, disappointment, excitement, and sometimes, isolation. Just like Lorde’s exploration of her internal enigma, the fertility journey asks you to embrace uncertainty and trust the process of growth, even when the path isn’t clear.

You might wonder, how can music and art help us in this deeply personal experience? Here’s the surprising truth: songs like those on Virgin can give voice to feelings that are hard to put into words, making you feel seen and understood. They remind you that embracing every part of your journey, including the doubts and fears, is a form of strength.

Empowerment Through Intimacy and Self-Knowledge

One of the most inspiring things about Lorde’s new album is its commitment to authenticity and self-acceptance. When you’re trying to conceive, especially outside of clinical settings, this authenticity can be a game-changer. It means listening to your body, honoring your emotions, and choosing methods that respect your comfort and sensitivity.

This is where companies like MakeAMom come into play. They offer specialized at-home insemination kits designed for all kinds of needs—including low motility sperm and conditions like vaginismus—allowing individuals and couples to take control of their journey in a way that feels safe and supportive. And with a reported 67% success rate, they provide real hope, backed by science and compassion.

Creating a Supportive Space for Yourself

Just as Virgin invites listeners into a private, intimate space of reflection, your fertility journey deserves a nurturing environment. Here are some ways to cultivate that:

  • Mindfulness & Meditation: Practice being present with your feelings without judgment.
  • Journaling: Channel your thoughts and emotions into writing, just like an artist channels theirs into music.
  • Support Networks: Connect with others who understand your experience, whether through online communities or support groups.
  • Gentle Movement: Yoga or light exercise can help reduce stress and boost your overall wellness.

The Power of Hope and Perseverance

Lorde’s Virgin isn’t just an album; it’s a reminder that embracing your full, complicated self is a radical act. In the fertility world, where uncertainty often reigns, holding onto hope and continuing to move forward is equally revolutionary.

The journey might test you, but it can also teach you about resilience, patience, and love in unexpected ways. The music we listen to, the products we trust, and the communities we lean on all weave together a safety net that supports us through the unknown.

So, What’s the Takeaway?

If you’re navigating your own path to parenthood, consider this: the emotional landscape you travel might be as important as any physical step. Let Lorde’s Virgin be a soundtrack to your inner journey of discovery. And remember, tools like MakeAMom’s home insemination kits are here to empower you to take control—comfortably, safely, and with dignity.

After all, just like an album that unfolds track by track, your path to conception is a series of moments, each rich with meaning and potential. Embrace the mystery. Celebrate your strength. And never underestimate the power of hope.

What emotional anthem has supported you in your fertility journey? Let’s start a conversation below and lift each other up.

Ever wondered what elite athletes like WNBA stars can teach us about pursuing one of life’s most profound dreams—becoming parents?

Recently, Paige Bueckers, Napheesa Collier, and other WNBA players shared their dream 1-on-1 matchups on 'Good Morning America,' showcasing not just their competitive fire but also their mindset towards challenges and aspirations. Their reflections offer surprisingly powerful lessons for anyone on the journey to parenthood, especially those navigating it through at-home conception methods.

What Can Basketball Stars Teach Us About Our Fertility Journey?

At first glance, the high-energy world of professional basketball and the intimate journey of conception might seem worlds apart. But peel back the layers, and you’ll see common threads. The drive for success, resilience through setbacks, and the importance of support systems are universal themes.

Take Paige Bueckers, for example. She openly speaks about the importance of persistence, even when faced with obstacles that feel insurmountable. That same spirit is vital when couples or individuals pursue pregnancy, particularly when exploring at-home insemination as an alternative to clinical treatments.

Overcoming Challenges With Innovative Solutions

One key takeaway from these athletes’ stories is the embrace of innovation and personalized approaches to reach goals. Similarly, in the realm of conception, companies like MakeAMom are empowering hopeful parents with versatile at-home insemination kits tailored for different needs—whether working with low-volume or frozen sperm, low motility sperm, or conditions such as vaginismus.

These kits offer a discreet, reusable, and cost-effective option for those wishing to conceive in the comfort and privacy of their homes. The success rate is encouraging, with an average of 67% reported by MakeAMom users.

The Power of Support and Community

The WNBA players talked about their ideal matchups and the joy of competing alongside and against each other, underscoring the power of connection and support. This sense of community and emotional wellness is crucial for couples navigating fertility challenges. Whether it’s to share experiences, find encouragement, or access expert advice, leaning on supportive networks can make all the difference.

At-home conception journeys often require emotional resilience and the right information—both of which are available through resources like MakeAMom’s website, which also features testimonials and detailed guidance to empower users.

What Does This Mean for You?

If you’re on the path to conception, consider how the mindset of determination combined with innovative tools and community support can transform your experience. Like those WNBA stars aiming for their dream matchups, your journey is unique but shared by many, and there are tailored solutions designed for your success.

Final Thoughts

The intersection of sports inspiration and fertility technology might not be obvious at first. But the lessons of perseverance, creativity in overcoming challenges, and reliance on a strong support system are universal.

As you move forward, lean into these lessons and explore options that bring you closer to your goal—whether that's trying at-home insemination kits from trusted providers or engaging with communities that uplift you.

For more inspiration and resources on empowering your conception journey in the comfort of your home, explore the wealth of information and options available through MakeAMom.

If this post resonated with you, check out the full interview with WNBA players sharing their dream matchups here.

What’s your dream matchup—whether on the court or on your journey to parenthood? Share your thoughts below and let’s keep the conversation going!

Imagine celebrating a life milestone—and then watching your partner follow through with an equally incredible achievement shortly after. That’s exactly what happened recently on the hit game show Jeopardy! when Maine real estate agent Jason Singer won the episode, joining the ranks of his wife, Susan McMillan, the 2021 Jeopardy! champion. Their story isn’t just about trivia mastery; it’s a powerful reminder of how teamwork, mutual encouragement, and shared dreams can fuel extraordinary success in any arena—yes, including your journey to conception and parenthood.

You might be wondering, what does a Jeopardy! power couple have to do with fertility and wellness? More than you think.

1. Partnership Is Your Greatest Strength In the story of Jason and Susan, it’s clear that having a partner who understands your goals and supports you fully can elevate your chances of success. Whether it’s mastering trivia questions or navigating the emotional and physical ups and downs of trying to conceive, a committed partner makes the journey less daunting and infinitely more rewarding.

2. Celebrate Small Victories Together Every episode win for the Singers symbolizes the power of celebrating wins, big or small. When on the path to parenthood, it’s crucial to recognize and honor each step forward. Did you track ovulation this cycle? Did you maintain a nourishing diet or take time to meditate together? These achievements build resilience and keep hope alive.

3. Perseverance Is Key, No Matter the Challenge Whether learning the answers to complex trivia or exploring fertility options, perseverance matters. Jason and Susan’s story shows that consecutive victories come with practice, dedication, and a positive mindset. If you face setbacks in your fertility journey, remember that perseverance keeps the dream alive and opens the door to new possibilities.

4. Tailored Tools Empower Your Journey Just as the Singers used their knowledge and strategies to win, you can empower yourself with tools tailored specifically for your unique needs. For example, if you’re exploring at-home conception methods, companies like MakeAMom offer specialized insemination kits designed to maximize your chances—whether working with low motility sperm, frozen sperm, or navigating sensitive conditions. These thoughtful, reusable kits provide a discreet, cost-effective, and user-friendly path toward your family-building goals.

5. Embrace the Joy in the Journey The Singers’ story reminds us not to lose sight of joy amidst challenges. Embracing laughter, shared moments, and mutual encouragement can transform stress into strength.


Embarking on your conception journey at home or supporting your partner through it is a beautiful act of love and courage. Learning from inspiring stories like that of Jason and Susan can remind us that success often comes one step at a time, supported by a strong partnership and the right strategies.

So, how will you and your partner champion your dreams today? Whether you’re seeking new tools, emotional support, or simply a fresh perspective, remember that you’re not alone—and sometimes, the greatest wins come from believing in each other and never giving up.

For more empowering resources and tailored solutions to support your at-home conception journey, be sure to explore the thoughtful options available at MakeAMom.

And if you want to catch a glimpse of this inspiring Jeopardy! story, watch the full video here: WATCH: Man joins his wife as ‘Jeopardy!’ champion.

Here’s to your continued strength, partnership, and the incredible journey ahead—because sometimes, winning truly does run in the family. What will your next victory look like? Share your story in the comments below!

Have you ever thought that a music icon's story could hold a powerful message for your fertility journey? It sounds unlikely at first, but the recent reflections of Cyndi Lauper, celebrating her induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, offer an inspiring metaphor for anyone navigating the challenging path to conception.

In a heartfelt interview on Good Morning America, Cyndi Lauper spoke about her induction as a “full-circle moment” — a celebration not just of success, but of perseverance, hope, and belief in oneself despite obstacles. As someone who has faced ups and downs in your own journey to parenthood, this story resonates deeply.

Why is this so relevant?

Because much like Lauper's career, your path may feel full of unexpected twists, doubts, and moments where giving up seems easier than moving forward. But the key takeaway is this: the things that seem like setbacks are often setups for your biggest breakthroughs.

Now, you might be wondering, how does this connect to your fertility journey?

Well, many individuals and couples pursuing parenthood at home face barriers — whether due to medical conditions, emotional stress, or simply the high costs and invasiveness of traditional clinical insemination. This is where innovative solutions come into play.

Companies like MakeAMom are revolutionizing the way conception can happen, making it more accessible, private, and empowering. Their at-home insemination kits, designed for specific needs—whether it’s low motility sperm, sensitivities, or the use of frozen sperm—offer a hopeful and cost-effective alternative to clinical methods.

Imagine embracing your own ‘rock & roll’ moment: taking control of your journey, armed with tools tailored to your unique situation. This does not just symbolize hope but active empowerment.

Here are a few empowering lessons from Cyndi Lauper’s moment and your fertility path:

  • Celebrate Every Milestone: Just like a music career is built one song at a time, your family is built through each hopeful step. Celebrate each try, each sign of progress.
  • Know Your Unique Path: There’s no one-size-fits-all in life or fertility; embracing options like MakeAMom's reusable kits can align with your personal needs.
  • Stay Resilient: The road might be tough. But remember that success is often born from persistence and learning from each experience.
  • Seek Support and Community: Connecting with others who share your journey can be a lifeline — sharing stories, tips, and encouragement.

Cyndi Lauper’s story reminds us that achieving your dreams is a journey marked by resilience and hope. Your dream of parenthood is no different.

If you’re exploring ways to make conception at home a reality, consider how innovative, thoughtfully designed solutions can help you stay on track with confidence and privacy. You can learn more about accessible options tailored specifically for your needs through trusted resources.

Inspiring, isn’t it?

Before we wrap up, let me leave you with this question: What’s your personal ‘full-circle moment’ going to look like? How will you celebrate when you reach your milestone?

Share your thoughts and stories in the comments below — we're all in this together, turning hopeful dreams into joyful reality.

And if you want to explore empowering tools designed to support your unique journey, check out the inspiring options available at MakeAMom’s website.

Remember, just like a legendary rockstar, your perseverance and hope can take you to unforgettable heights.

Have you ever witnessed a moment so powerful it reshapes your entire perspective on perseverance and triumph? That moment happened recently, when the Oklahoma City Thunder stormed their way to their first NBA Championship by decisively beating the Indiana Pacers 103-91 in Game 7 of the Finals. This wasn’t just a victory in sports; it was a testament to resilience, focus, and unwavering belief in the face of challenges. You can watch the highlights here.

Now, you might wonder,

What could a small island’s high-stakes drone industry possibly teach us about starting a family? At first glance, it might seem like an unlikely comparison—military technology versus the intimate, hopeful process of conception. But as Taiwan races against time to build its own drone capabilities, there’s a powerful lesson for anyone embarking on the road to parenthood, especially those choosing the path of at-home conception.

I recently read a captivating article on WIRED titled Taiwan Is Rushing to Make Its Own Drones Before It's Too Late. Taiwan is facing the urgent need to innovate and become self-reliant amidst looming challenges. This urgency fuels a spirit of resilience and self-empowerment—a spirit every hopeful parent can embrace.

Taking Control: The Power of Self-Reliance in Your Fertility Journey

Just like Taiwan is building its domestic drone industry from scratch to protect its future, you too can take proactive steps to safeguard and nurture your path to conception. Whether you’re single, in a couple, or exploring different options, the idea of taking matters into your own hands is incredibly empowering.

This is where at-home solutions like the ones provided by MakeAMom come into play. Their tailored insemination kits give people a chance to try conception in the comfort and privacy of their own homes, offering hope without the barriers of clinical settings or high costs. It’s a modern, innovative approach that aligns perfectly with the current zeitgeist of reclaiming control over one’s own body and choices.

The Bright Side of Urgency and Innovation

The urgency Taiwan experiences reminds us that sometimes waiting passively isn’t an option. For many, delays in pursuing pregnancy can bring additional stress and uncertainty. But innovation and action—just like Taiwan's drone pioneers—can turn this urgency into motivation.

Here’s how you can embrace this mindset today:

  • Explore innovative tools: Research and consider at-home fertility options that fit your unique situation.
  • Be resourceful: Learn about kits designed to address specific challenges, like low sperm motility or sensitivities.
  • Prioritize privacy: Choosing discreet options lets you focus on possibilities without outside pressures.
  • Maintain hope: Even with obstacles, success is often within reach when you take charge.

Why MakeAMom Stands Out as Your Fertility Ally

Much like Taiwan’s focus on building quality, reusable drones that adapt to difficult conditions, MakeAMom designs reusable insemination kits crafted for various fertility needs. From frozen sperm to sensitive conditions like vaginismus, their product line reflects thoughtful innovation and inclusivity.

With an average success rate of 67%, these kits show that taking control in your own surroundings can be both practical and hopeful. And with discreet packaging and cost-effective approaches, it’s a compassionate way to bring your dream closer.

What This Means for You

The world is evolving rapidly, and so are the ways we pursue parenthood. Taiwan’s battle to innovate under pressure is a vivid reminder: sometimes the best step forward is the one you take yourself.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the fertility journey, remember there are new tools and resources designed to empower you—right at home.

Ready to explore this path? Dive deeper into how you can embrace self-empowerment with innovative at-home conception solutions by visiting MakeAMom’s resourceful site.


So, what’s your takeaway? Are you inspired to take that next step with confidence and hope? Share your thoughts, experiences, or questions below—let’s build a community of strength and encouragement together!

Because just as Taiwan races forward to secure its future with innovation, you too can forge your path to parenthood with courage and creativity.