MSI Spotlight: Theresa Adams
This MSI Spotlight feature is a celebration of someone who shows up with an open heart and a generous spirit. Full of support, love, and joy, she reminds us what it looks like to lift others simply by being herself. We’re so excited to share a closer look at the light she brings to our community.
Name:
Theresa Adams
Branch of Service:
United States Navy
Bio:
I served as a Naval Air Traffic Controller from 1976 to 1980 without formal schooling. I did on the job training after studying on my own for the FTC test to operate on the radio on my own and passed the test on my first attempt. For that I was awarded Junior Sailor of the Quarter. I played softball, volleyball and basketball for the 12th District Navy during my career. My leatherwork has become one of my outlets to help with my PTS. It takes me away from my dark places and thoughts I wish to keep at bay and brings me to my happy place. I usually give my works to friends and family. This piece went to my Pastor's wife for her birthday and she was really surprised to acquire it. I call my studio Blueridge Leather.
Piece:
What are you most proud of?:
I'm most proud of the fact I was the only female in my Veteran therapy class in Phoenix, and each of my classmates accepted me for who I was.
How do you celebrate your happiness and success?:
With each finished piece I just look in wonder at my accomplishment and at my first sad piece from where I began.
What is something you are currently working towards?:
Getting better at my photography and creating more in my leatherworks
What shows, movies, books, podcasts, games, experiences or other forms of leisure would you recommend for your fellow MSI Sisters?:
Just be creative at anything, get your mind going, just try!
What are your favorite foods?:
Italian........and Mexican
What is one fun fact about you?:
I love aviation. And nature!
What does MSI mean to you?:
I found new friends and also know I'm not alone in some aspects of what's happened to me in the Military.
Our monthly theme for June is Empowerment and Renewal, but Theresa submitted this in April, when our theme was Artistry April. Here’s what Theresa had planned for the month:
Continuing to work in my crafts
What words of inspiration do you have for your fellow MSI Sisters?:
The creative mind is a terrible thing to waste, just try your hand at it, what do you have to lose........nothing at all!
One of the most important parts of a community, a sisterhood, and a strong and unbreakable friendship is the mutual exchange of stories and experiences. There are many experiences that are unique to who women Veterans are, what they have endured, and survived.
The Military Sisterhood Initiative's goal is to build a community that fights together, laughs together, cries together, and heals together; therefore, we have taken the initiative to tell the stories of women Veterans through our Sister Diaries.
To learn more and to join the Sisterhood, visit www.militarysisterhoodinitiative.org.
