We had the good fortune of connecting with Krystal Cunningham and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Krystal, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
One of the most challenging things to decide especially when going through a rough patch with a non profit is “Should I give up or should I push through?” It can be very difficult to navigate through the non profit waters. There are so many details to manage and regulations to maintain. It can be overwhelming at times. The highs (of course) are easy to handle. The donations are flowing in, the programs are thriving and enrollment is up. There is no question about continuing at this point because the outlook is positive. Things are seemingly perfect… well, until they aren’t. In those lower moments when let’s say, we are dealing with low enrollment, lack of funds, overwhelming stress or even a world wide pandemic, the questions then become “Why continue?” “Is it worth it to keep pushing forward?” For me, that’s when it’s time to revisit the original reason for starting God’s Natural Pearls. During this time, I think on what the goal was when starting my non profit. I think about the purpose I feel is on my life and I pray to God for guidance. It’s not always an easy decision to make especially when you’ve put so much work into something but when faced with this dilemma, I usually end with asking myself: 1. Is your heart still in it? 2. Can you achieve greater results by moving on to something else? When I am able to honestly answer these questions, the decision becomes easier to make. Though there are some situations in life that do warrant stopping, most of the time we shouldn’t give up and in my case with GNP that remains true. I know there is still plenty work to do. Galatians 6:9 says “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” I hold on to that and when things get difficult I am reminded of my “why.”

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I work full time as a licensed & certified athletic trainer in the DFW area. I always say that I have two full time jobs because being the founder and executive director of God’s Natural Pearls definitely consumes many hours of my time as well. Finding the blend between the two has not been easy, but I have always known that I had a purpose outside of what I went to school to do. I think it’s because the mentors I had during my formative years helped me so much. Having healthy and caring support when I needed it most was imperative to who I am today. Their role was vital! Along the way, I have been blessed with friends and mentors who have helped me mentally, spiritually and emotionally. I’ve dealt with childhood trauma through counseling and I have emerged as a stronger, healthier woman because of it. If there was one thing that I would want the world to know about me, it’s that there is growth in every circumstance (good, bad or indifferent). We all have a story with a past, a present and a promise! My brand and God’s Natural Pearls are an extension of that belief. Everyone’s journey is different but everyone’s journey is meaningful. When we learn to accept the hand we were dealt and understand who we are in a way that empowers, enlivens and enriches us, we are able to do anything that we put our minds to!! ANYTHING!!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
First of all, I like to eat… so we would definitely be hitting up some great local cuisine. I have some staples but I also like to try new spots as well. I probably don’t venture out as much as I should but I look forward to adding new restaurants to my list of staples! In addition to the food hunting, we’d act like tourists. I like the theatre so we’d catch a show at Jubilee in Fort Worth, check the sites at Sundance Square or Klyde Warren Park, find some place(s) to shop and have a good time. I don’t feel like the entire trip has to be planned out so the activities would happen organically. No matter what we do, I know it would be full of food, laughs and memories!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I wouldn’t be who I am or where I am today without the love of Christ… He has protected me, guided me and covered me my entire life, my childhood mentors, my family (Hey mom), encouragement from the love of my life RJL (hey boo) and a supportive squad of friends (ya’ll know who you are). The constant prayers, love support from each of you have made my journey more meaningful and has helped me continue towards my goals & my purpose!!

Website: https://www.naturalpearls.org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gonaturalpearls/?hl=en
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/krystal-cunningham-06959aa3?trk=people-guest_people_search-card&challengeId=AQGZY35Yk2M0HQAAAXT_GyV_VE8YvWexUYvYeLHm7zmy28J_n968ravsi3wUkXR42R3KLHb7ORoMdIhN6BBe35Dee15v2hxntw&submissionId=3b6102e9-9b79-3b16-fd3b-15119e01e229
Twitter: https://twitter.com/gonaturalpearls?lang=en
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_c3rJyfhv8M&t=7s

Image Credits
TheLXstudios

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