The Sparrow Project
Our beloved friend and sister, Debra Nixon Bowles is a strong, bold, vibrant, beautiful, mover and shaker. If you ever have the joy of meeting her, you will not soon forget her. She’s memorable in that she radiates an enthusiasm and a true joy that comes from knowing God. And, she’s a domestic violence survivor.
According to the National Coalition against Domestic Violence, 35% of women globally will experience domestic violence. On average, almost 20 people per minute are victims of physical violence by a domestic partner in the United States. And, an astounding one in three women will experience some form of physical violence by an intimate partner in their lifetime.
You see, Debra doesn’t look like the “type” of person who would have an abuser because there is no “type.” Domestic Violence exists in all areas of our communities, in varying social and economic status, across age, gender, race and religion. It plays no favorites. The statistics are staggering.
Out of the heart of an overcomer, someone who escaped the grip of death, Debra has found a way to help others like herself through Women Called Moses (womencalledmoses.org). Her organization strives to transition women out of domestic violence through education and advocacy services provided to individuals, family and community agencies throughout the USA. WCM is both her passion and her life’s mission.
Debra’s passion to eradicate domestic violence sparked JL PARISH’S Sparrow Project. CEO/Designer, Jill Lide Parish said, “We wanted to create a unique piece of jewelry to benefit Women Called Moses. Because Debra and I encourage one another’s spirits through prayer and scripture, we dreamed up something we felt would be beautiful and speak to the spirits of JL PARISH customers, too.” The Sparrow Project was inspired by the old gospel hymn, His Eye Is on the Sparrow. Widely known as a staple hymn in African-American worship services, this song was written and composed by two white songwriters. Lyricist, Civilla Martin wrote, “Early in the spring of 1905, my husband and I were sojourning in Elmira, NY. We contracted a deep friendship for a couple by the name of Mr. and Mrs. Doolittle- true saints of God. Mrs. Doolittle had been bedridden for nigh twenty years. Her husband was an incurable cripple who had to propel himself to and from his business in a wheel chair. Despite their afflictions, they lived happy Christian lives, bringing inspiration and comfort to all who knew them. One day while we were visiting with the Doolittles, my husband commented on their bright hopefulness and asked them for the secret of it. Mrs. Doolittle’s reply was simple: “His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me.” The beauty of this simple expression of boundless faith gripped the hearts and fired the imagination of Dr. Martin and me. “His Eye Is on the Sparrow” was the outcome of that experience.”
Just like the jewelry we wear has a story, we know there are many stories out there. And, let’s face it, many of them could use a more triumphant arc, happier ending or new beginning. JL PARISH is committed to making an impact in the community by sharing resources to positively change the lives of those in need. A portion of profits from the sale of all Sparrow Project purchases will be used to do just that. So, while you indulge in retail therapy, feel good knowing that every Sparrow Project purchase you make will positively contribute to another life awaiting a great new beginning to their own story.<.p>
“Do not fear, you are more valuable than many sparrows.” -Matthew 10:29-31