Our Story
The Question
For some time, I struggled with what my purpose was and how I could I offer and be of service. I would observe many homeless individuals carrying their sad faces and signs, especially the women.
I knew that most of them would not have access to feminine products and I looked to what I could help with. I started with a bag and more questions: What do I fill it with? Would that be useful?
I came up with water, a notebook, toiletries, feminine products, a message of hope and I wanted to come up with a name for it. I liked giving things names.
In times of struggle, I would often think of my grandmother whom has since passed and others that would give their beautiful sage advice during their time here on Earth. I listened. That’s when Mahal = Love came forth, and essentially how Mahal Unlimited began to sprout seeds.
Now, keep in mind, this was a few years ago. I had just started a new job and I was wanting to see where that would take me. I was in no way equipped to start my own business, but the words: Mahal = Love stayed with me.
It would often bring a smile to my face because it’s also the nickname my parents gave me as a little girl. In Tagalog, Mahal is a term of endearment. For me, it reminds me of my connection to my roots and ancestry.
Yet, I digress. I didn’t think a bag full of items was enough. The name wasn’t enough. I thought: More. We need to do more.
Throughout my entire work experience, I sat in numerous cubicles in various company environments where I would often note how I would do things if I had the opportunity to. Someone had once asked me:
What would Athena Incorporated look like?
I didn’t have an answer at the time.
I do now.
I wanted the company culture and its Intention stem from a belief that I could fully get behind and stand tall with. After decades of helping those with their dreams, it was time I began investing in myself and what I valued most: Mahal. Love.
I wanted a platform to spread that beautiful message. I also needed a place where I could share my creations and heart in a way that served me on many levels. Eventually, I wanted to create a space where individuals that resonated with this Intention would want to collaborate and grow alongside with me.
I thought of so many women that have suffered trauma like me. Survivors of sexual assault. Women warriors on the receiving end of trauma. How could I best assist them in their realization of inner strength and empowerment? Eventually, Mahal Unlimited would become that place where women could be financially independent and be part of a thriving community embodying the Spirit of Mahal.
The Struggle
In order for those of you to understand this desire, I’ll need to delve a bit into my past. And fair warning, it’s not pretty. If you’ve made it this far, bless your heart…and thank you…
In 1999, I received the most devastating news and a loved one I was in partnership with, tragically died. I did not cope well with the news and I spiraled in as many ways as you could. Self medicating, distractions, throwing myself into work and chain-smoking into the wee hours of the night were just a few ways I ‘dealt’ with the loss. Tack on a suicide attempt and I was at the lowest I could go.
But, I woke up the next morning and I dug myself out of the pit I found myself in.
Fast forward to 2002 and I was still an empty shell of myself. More alcohol, more pills and one night I wish would have never happened…but no regrets, right?
A co-worker invited me out to a bar in the old neighborhood I grew up in. I saw a handful of people from high school and another person I recognized from work, but did not know very well. He ended up needing a ride home and I offered.
Sometimes, I wonder What If?
He offered me another drink when we got to his house and I accepted. I ended up not leaving because I nearly passed out.
I awoke to him on top of me and I get flashes of that night, even now nearly 20 years later.
It took me awhile to even realize what happened and a good friend of mine at the time suggested I seek help. He suggested I reach out to the Coalition to End Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence.
The center is now known as The Coalition For Family Harmony today.
When I came to terms with what happened, that even though I was drunk and full of pills, I never gave consent. I was raped. And, that is still really hard to share in any form.
After receiving hours and hours of counseling….after delving into spiritual healing and inner work, things did get better for me.
As I began sharing with trusted loved ones, more and more stories of rape, sexual assault, domestic violence became less of a periphery to something that I could not ignore.
I decided to utilize knowledge as another form of empowerment (and my healing journey) and commit to receiving training to become a crisis counselor. The Coalition for Family Harmony offers an 80 hour training program where you could become an advocate for survivors of rape and domestic violence.
I slowly began transmuting my anger, rage and disgust in a way that helped me channel my emotions in a way that served me then, and still serves me well today.
The Promise
As uncomfortable as that portion of my life is to share, it’s an important catalyst for me. I wanted a portion of profits generated by Mahal Unlimited to be donated to the Coalition For Family Harmony. It led me from trauma to transformation and I was able to integrate that as I do my best to walk in this life in the best way I can. I vow to offer support, inspiration, encouragement, love, respect to others especially women…and more importantly, survivors of trauma. I whole heartedly believe Mahal Unlimited exists because of ALL of this.
The Answer
If you feel called to and are able, peruse the store and see what tickles your fancy…what brings joy….what helps you to follow your bliss! Purchase With Purpose.
When I was first establishing the business, I was asked in so many different ways: why would someone buy from your store? What does your business offer that I could essentially get somewhere else, but cheaper?
After being offended for five minutes, I took some time with the question. Even if I didn’t particularly agree with the question itself and how it was executed, it was a very valid question.
At the time of this inquiry, I had one of the test products in my hand. A water bottle with the logo on it, in my swirly handwriting and beautifully intended message. I looked at someone else’s water bottle and it’s blank surface. I contemplated why I dived into this crazy venture during a pandemic and I replied (to no one in particular):
Because this water bottle symbolizes a desire to support and empower women.
Because in these crazy times were in, the message of Love can never be said and shared enough.
Because this is my Answer to: What Can I Do and Who Am I?
Remember: Mahal = Love.