The Greatest Love Story Ever Told | Ericka Alston | TEDxHampdenWomen

[@somethingclever7940]

I was that child who's mother said I'll be right back, it has now been 14 years. thank you so so much for all you do.

[@divinebeginnings48]

purplestarburst unicorn You then have a BIG plan over your life 🔑❤️ Use the knowing inside you that YOU are special and HAVE something inside YOU that most others were not created , to peruse a Divinely Appointed assignment in Life 📦💌 Be Blessed and KNOW that in ALL things, any door that shuts, is for the purposes of needing the space for larger doors to open! Having that awareness, and trusting that Truth causes Favor to flood in to One's experience like rushing Living Waters! Trust that everything is ALWAYS working out for YOU, and then watch how the Universe show up for YOU with nothing short than exactly that! Never have I left a comment on KZbin before but was strongly drawn to your comment with a sense of peace and certainty of the plans and purpose over your life!! Ones of Greatness and Abundance!! 🌬💫🎯 That simple shift in perception causes a MASSIVE shift in One's reality and daily experience 🙌🏼💝

[@trarondahicks188]

So sorry

[@zeeluttybara5127]

I came to listen for a couple of seconds...2minutes max...I told myself...and I stayed the whole 21minutes...because its that compelling...well that was time well spent. Thank you for sharing your story.

[@keturahsamuels9305]

Same here!!!

[@kcadler8925]

Nice Ted Talk...Not sure about the tears. I would like to understand why some one with a family and a six figure income would start smoking crack? she lost me in the beginning.

[@MegaLadylove2012]

zeelutty Bara I imagined this was prior to starting a family or a six figure business. Get the point?

[@kcadler8925]

zeelutty Bara Honestly, I do not get the point. This does not make me cry or move me the way others feel. I do not understand how she was displaced originally. She had children (her words she had her first child at15). There was a break down early. Not sure she dispelled the "myth" addicts turn their lives around. I understand she did. Statistically, I did not hear how many crack addicts return to school, sit on boards, and why it suggested that "real people" hang out in the hood. Seriously? No... I have listened to this twice. Unfortunately, I don't get the trajectory of events that placed her in the addictive point. Maybe if I did I would understand the emotional pull this story has for so many of the responders.🤐

[@bluefidle]

Kc Adler I

[@sandybloggersf]

This is the first Ted Talk that made me cry. What a beautiful story about self love. Thank you for sharing so openly, Ericka. This story has inspired me to believe that it is never too late to wake up and start finding the greatest love story of all time. Let's love ourselves more.

[@luzfigueroa1550]

sffoodphotography Amen 🙏 to that the thing is that we look for love ❤️ in others and other things that we know it's not good but it feels good at the time. Crack doesn't discriminate.

[@jadehalliday6636]

I cried too! I think this is the most beautiful love story ever told 😍

[@pixpusha]

Had me snot bubbling and heave-crying. That private type cry.

[@taesjatv6309]

Same here. 😁

[@woparasinclair44]

@@taesjatv6309 oh really? I would love to have a conversations with you

[@heleenh6307]

She is an insanely good speaker. Amazing story.

[@kyannah9]

Heleen H she is amazing ❤️🙏🏾

[@bmason7996]

Speaking from her soul.

[@laurieberry162]

I can’t stand people who try to get people to hate themselves on purpose. Like psychologists.

[@brindlebriar]

God damn, she has the gift of story telling. She could also tell her story on NPR's "This American Life." And I just have to say, she's beautiful and looks like she's 20 years old. How does she look that young with grown children? She's actually adorable.

[@catherinedavids3632]

I have been watching this Ted talk for years. I am 8 yrs 9mo in recovery. Still broken because mental illness. But Everytime I feel hopeless I rewatch this. I stand back up and keep moving forward.

[@virginiasantillan2267]

Jesus can heal what you can’t touch ❤❤❤ he loves you

[@nanaanan4731]

I hope that Erika Alston comes to this page periodically to check the comments. Thank you so much for sharing your story. You are a compelling storyteller and OMG, we really needed to hear this. What an inspiration!

[@meganfujimori6378]

This made me cry. Ericka, you inspire me to be better.

[@francoislachelier3396]

Megan oi

[@sdfghjmqwerty4540]

THERE ARE TEARS IN MY EYES OMG

[@BenefitsofBravery]

@8:50 My God she said she was #STUCKOUTSIDE My heart bursts open! I'm not addicted to drugs but honey I know. I know.

[@daniellepatrice7614]

My soul just opened 🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾😪I was that child left behind by my mother because of her addiction.,,, I became the mother to myself and my brother.,,, I wish I had a place like that to go ... I'm writing my book and I pray that the Good lord blesses me to one day be a Blessing to others like this . ❤️❤️God Bless you

[@ursoulspure]

🍀

[@nafdikyaaqsa]

Woah. I didn't expect that. These onions be strong.

[@ursoulspure]

:)

[@captainmango1355]

You are an inspiration! Thank You! I met a man who said "all crackheads should be shot!" I said wait a minute....you gonna shoot ME? He had no idea of the life I once led. He has since changed his opinion of those affected by addiction. I feel the best way to change the perception is by example - I'm living it one day at a time!

[@kaitirhea3207]

What an amazing speech!!! Thankyou very much for sharing your story! It is very admirable and soulful!! I too am a recovering addict! I used for over 14 years. I am now almost 2 years clean :) I thank God everyday for giving me the strength to pull myself out of that lifestyle!! I have decided to become a drug/alcohol counselor, so that's what I am going to school for. Anyways, I just wanted to tell you that you are a very strong and amazing lady!! Your story brought tears to my eyes. Very touching!

[@nishthapanday7976]

just out of this world....beautiful beautiful beautiful

[@Adanwanyi]

Praise God. Extraordinary woman.

[@antoinettasaunders1335]

This is AWESOME! Ericka so glad we crossed paths.

[@mazvitamusendo]

I was glued to this like my life depended on it. So incredibly beautiful

[@zonismith9367]

Very powerful it gave me chills listening to her. Very strong individual.

[@rosegold7870]

I'm binge watching TED talk videos right now and wondering "why haven't I watched these yet? these are amazing!"

[@Kaavotibinada]

This really needs way more views

[@trustandbelievewithasmile7060]

ArtemusPrime I know right u should share it

[@claudiabrown6329]

Thank you for educating me to another view of addiction. You were really funny and your tears were contagious for me. I have never been addicted to anything. But, I have a story, too where I looked perfectly normal and approachable. But, a piece of me was dying every single day. I have to find myself again. This is not something that is new for me. You probably have no clue as to what I am talking about, but we all have scars and struggles. Your strength is universal to everyone, whether​ you are an addict or not. Your kind of strength is forward, honest, self-serving, but you are able to give that strength to your kids because you are you.

[@osajohnson1957]

It's five years since you left that comment. Hoping you are doing well.

[@kackerlakensalat]

and like every great lovestory, it made me cry

[@kimwheatley8569]

YOUR story is HOPE manifested.....crying but so grateful for your story...YOUR passion...YOUR truth...inspiring a nation one human being at a time!!

[@GeorgeLRosario]

The best Ted Talks are those that leave you with tears in your eyes when they are over because they stay with you and never end. Will someone reach out to this beautiful young warrior and thank her for what she's done.

[@EstherBlissHub]

Thank you for being the voice, Ericka. This touched an unconscious part of me.

[@friggindoc]

One love sister! You are extraordinary! I was the one that used to tell my daughter i would be right back when i knew i wasnt. Thankfully i have been clean now for many years. Keep doing your good work!

[@traciewarren1701]

She didn't say how the addiction began and I don't know. But I have family members who are addicted to crack and resemble her story. It could have been a friend who asked her to try it but however it happened, it's really difficult to break the cycle. Kudos to her for turning her life around.

[@lilyzemengist8091]

Best Talk ever by anyone ever. I am glad I spent 21:18 listening and watching this. Awe-inspiring in the true sense of Awesomeness!

[@rowinggorilla9437]

I'm a cocaine & alcohol addict. You helped me

[@malemaline]

Sending love your way

[@Cindy-vo9lo]

Rowing Gorilla, I was an addict, and when I accepted Jesus as my Lord and Saviour, I was set free and new "therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new" -2 Corinthians 5:17 ❤

[@luzfigueroa1550]

Rowing Gorilla please,please try to get help much prayers going your way.

[@xolisapxo]

I really hope you get the help you deserve! God bless and i hope everything turns out for you!

[@christineowori750]

Sending love and hugs your way +Rowing Gorilla There's light at the end of the tunnel. I don't know if you believe in God but i'm going to pray for you

[@aimieanuar4969]

Woah that was great. The emotions that was being distributed was surreal. Lady you're an inspiration

[@AtheneHolder]

Never been an addict, not American, can't relate..... but I have been that person who winds up the windows and crosses the street. What a lady

[@goddessjnu6055]

this is the most beautiful story I've ever heard I wish her nothing but more love

[@f8themusicfreak]

It is, indeed, the greatest love story I've ever heard. ❤️

[@d.b.4394]

I sent this over to my niece...I am praying this story touches her life! #inspiration!

[@kimberlymurray5293]

"So I go to PennNorth...." she says and only one person claps. Thanks, Edward!

[@melri4392]

Thank you for sharing this I am truly grateful. I didn't know people who are addicted can truly change. I guess we are all simply steps away from addiction and being homeless. Thank you again for being so open in helping me see better.

[@gammiesglasses1188]

This IS THE GREATEST TED TALK EVER! GOD BLESS YOU! It was one of the hardest things you have ever done. And The Most Rewarding!

[@anyahosakue9098]

You are amazing. Im an addict on a journey of recovery. A series of events forced me into counseling and counseling has helped me realize that its alright to ask for help. Listening to you Erka has helped me realize that i have no need to be ashamed to admit that im an addict or was an addict cuz im recovering. Thank you.

[@skiniminonochie]

Thank you for so eloquently sharing your story and more importantly helping others to share theirs through changing it with self love.

[@TheRevealingOfKatiaJ]

I came across this at the moment I needed it. From what I was searching for, I knew the title was about self love. I was gravitated to it & I'm thankful. Those who haven't been lost, depressed but know you were created for greater, experienced that black hole (mentally ill, drug/alcohol abuse, physical/psychological abuse) you probably wouldn't get this. I myself was touched by grace with tears rolling. Thank you for this post! #ImInspired #StopWantingIt&DoIt "Advocate for those without a voice. Your/my steps have been ordered"

[@kyriechalmers1736]

I know this is 2 years later but I hope Ericka sees this. I'm from Baltimore and my dad is a recovering addict. Well, off and on. He functions but he's not all the way there. But he started as a kid and I truly feel that if he knew you as a child and had a place to go to where he could get some love, he might have rethought to pick up that spoon. So thank you for being there now in this very moment. You have changed so many lives more than you know.

[@KrisaWrites]

Really wish she addressed how to actually help an addict who has been told they can "go to a meeting" WAS told they "don't have to do drugs" and WAS offered a completely paid for pass to a program to get them clean and back into society. This video seemed to only really serve to shame people who haven't had any first hand experience with addicts and as a result don't know what to do with them aka, "cross on the other side of the street." rather than help inform people what to do to help someone who refuses to be helped. The most powerful thing you can do to help an addict is help the people who love the addict. Teach them what to say, what to do, how to help reach their loved one. It's such a precarious edge between loving and enabling and it would be so helpful if she spoke on how to reach that.

[@valkyria7769]

Her story is beyond gorgeous, but can we talk about how fabulous her hair is?!😍😍

[@graceolabisi]

In this day and age of performances and trying to live up to other people's standard, this is the realest person I've listened to in a while! I cried after this.

[@nzurimalkia3181]

The nature of my job, I am grateful to see that she is clean and her children are able to see her everyday and enjoy her. I'm weighed down on how many drug overdoses there are and children are left parentless.

[@wendyekole7798]

God bless her. I appreciate her telling her story.

[@daphnedaniel7978]

No one nos the hurts an pains people live with..until they talk abt it one day..blessings to u..as u end up being happy

[@PhilVerryChannel]

She is amazing. It is obvious anyone can do what she did but it required her to stop doing what she was doing, change direction and work her plan of changing daily. Thanks for sharing. It did help me think twice about initial perceptions.

[@rat-de9dv]

i don't think there are words for how much i love this omg!!! and when she said 'i am the executive director of the be extraordinary project.'

[@1coco5]

Sharing this with every brother n sister I can... you just never know.

[@emilyvreed]

the power and strength of this woman is incredible

[@wegahtah6278]

You make me cry & laugh @ the same time. what a blessed strong & courageous person.May God help you to help people who are in need .

[@jeff909860]

Thats exactly what big cities need. After school centers and recreation centers for children. --im totally going to be a human services major.

[@ariholt97]

How to install new spmc Kodi

[@luzfigueroa1550]

je0706. Great choice

[@kcadler8925]

je0706 Try Business as a major and a minor in Human Resources, so you can earn a living Ph.D. MBA JD

[@ktee2313]

je0706 please don't get a career in human service's its a joke, its not satisfying and all the companies care about is the money. The clients you'll help will manipulate you and like on you. all they want is cigarettes and soda...so unfulfillying

[@ktee2313]

I meant lie on you

[@angelawilliams7606]

That was definitely a beautiful love story. No one could have told it better than Ericka!!!

[@DJCayjuynSpyce]

Beautiful story ❤ I'm glad that Ms.Ericka was able to overcome all that she endured and be a light in the lives of many.

[@queensahara7597]

Love this story. I believe everyone should hear this. I wish Ms. Ericka could speak at my university. Thank you for sharing, Tedx

[@lyshawilliams4478]

I needed this emotional release. I hate that i just moved from that area as i wuld have liked to be more involved w these organizations. I will cheerfully support from afar and encourage others to do the same.

[@cupcakesandhappiness]

She made me cry!! Her story was absolutely beautiful and powerful!!!! Erica you made me rethink a lot of things, thank you 🙏🏾♥️

[@lelabee1562]

Stumbled across this and I was wholeheartedly inspired and amazed at your story and your strength. God bless you!

[@jaudongaines]

She has told a story of truth, that sends wave through my heart and soul!!!!!!!

[@beeley]

Her voice... it’s so calming...and beautiful

[@waltporter7707]

that was one of the best if not the best Ted Talks that I've ever seen. I don't even know her but I'm proud of her.

[@architectMd]

Proud of you, Ericka Alston ! God Almighty Bless!

[@brookerobinson6814]

Damn it! I did not come here to cry! My allergies are acting all the way up... bravo to the greatest love story ever told💜

[@9tiin]

My heart is happy for you, dear sister.

[@nzingawenham4536]

😭 of joy so happy she is standing in her power. Her mess has truly become her message. Her struggle is now her success. Hosanna.

[@shellf2015]

Really good Ted Talk... Although I'm 7yrs late. I connected to this story. I am so thankful for you and ppl just like you that do recover. I embrace and support recovery. I've always done so since I was a teenager. Thank you for this talk! You made me tear up and then I just allowed the tears to fall. Remain Extraordinary! I salute the divinity in you! God Bless.

[@Nana-jl3en]

She is an outstanding speaker. I'm freaking moved, this needs to be replicated

[@munchingmakenna5776]

Praise God for this woman! 🙂

[@keturahsamuels9305]

AMAZING!! Her spirit is infectious. I'm wondering why this hasn't gone viral!!

[@riverterrain]

I'm glad she shared! This message was inspiring and full of understanding and love. She is beautiful, extrordinary inside and out!♡

[@camilleharris5218]

Wow when I say I watched this like I was in a total hypnosis state lol that's really an understatement. Beauty comes from all walks of life. Beauty is being able to fall down and get back up. Beauty is wanting to help someone heal the wounds they hide inside. Beauty is us knowing whatever you choose to do God will be there every step of the way. Ericka Alston you are my Idea of beauty.. 👼🌌 God bless you

[@Monica-jw4tr]

Very inspiring testimony! I would never notice it if it was n't the fact she testified. An amazing transformation, keep on the divine nurturing in you. Blessings across "Negrita Linda" God most be proud of you.

[@quietlionwhp2609]

This is what extraordinary looks like. stay blessed.

[@888altamber]

Good for you girl! This world needs to multiply more people just like you!

[@s.v.6516]

THAT. WAS. AWESOME. 😢😊👏👏👏 There were so many messages in 21 minutes! Thank you for being OBEDIENT by listening and finding the courage to share! 😇

[@angelicakweku5293]

All I can say is wow!!! Touching! Brought tears to my eyes.

[@imadori1010]

this made me cry so hard so inspiring

[@qhaweqhawe8300]

jai Mzpicklez Me too

[@ciaraexantus5063]

Wow! This was so powerful. That's why its so important to never judge people. God bless this amazing soul. Brilliant.

[@bernybakkar5481]

This is, by far, my favorite TED talk! She is truly an inspiration. It was funny, animated and emotional. Beautifully articulated!

[@asmrbb44]

one of the best TED talks

[@helenavuckovic5242]

You make me cry! You, adorable, respectable, strong women. God bless you!

[@charlottew.2720]

‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers/sisters, you did it to me.’ 🙏

[@theLblk]

I'm only 2 mins in and my eyes are watering. She is so captivating.

[@morgancaptain5842]

Wow, strong woman!

[@bernadetteallen5415]

Tears. Blessings to you and your calling. Sometimes we must go through so we can go back and get others.

[@majamy7573]

Absolutely. heart-breakingly. soul-wrenchingly. beautiful.. God bless you!

[@rappeace]

More people should see this...post it on your page everyone....

[@delishadae5736]

Although this has a beautiful ending I cried the whole time. Completely overwhelmed! Thank You Ms Erica Alston

[@meifennellysieu7510]

What a woman, and what a story! I love the unorthodox way she delivered this message-- very different from a traditional TedTalk!

[@michaelronan7769]

This is by far the best TeD talk I have ever heard

[@ildiphoenix]

You are a beautiful and courageous person ,thank you for sharing your story !

[@tangerinesandbox]

Incredible story. I wish more people took the time to listen to this.

[@vanessaquinones6471]

That was very touching. It's very emotional, thank you for sharing.

[@chelleehorton739]

Beautiful. Compelling and honest. Humble and vulnerable. Authentic and oh so uplifting! I think I just fell in love with her, too! Thank you for daring to bare your soul before those "boring people "!!! I HOPE that they recognize that you....and they....are WE. The same. We are more alike and more connected than "they" may want to believe. Thank you for giving away your #sixfigures and trading it for a beautiful crown which is worn on top of the most beautiful, loving, generous head and heart. You are a hero and a saint. Your love story led you to your life calling. Its worth it....SO SOOOOO WORTH IT!!! Bless you sweet lady. Hugs and kisses to you and your family and especially to all those mommas and children who come to your center to get help and get healed and fibd better lives!!!! WHAT A GIFT you are giving to SO SOOO MANY and this will flow down through so many generations! WooHOOOOO!

[@wainssu1]

Wow, seriously of all the Ted talks I've heard, and I've watched a lot of them, this one really beats the score. Very moving talk. 👏

[@isaiahmancha17]

Why am I crying? Ugh yessss!!!! I would love to meet her. So inspiring.

[@sydneyturner2236]

this took my breathe away. It was sooooooo good. I couldn't stop watching.

[@rebbiemapama]

Waouh !! A story turned into a testimony. The who I was nurtured the who I am and will help x, y, z to be who they should be. Thank you Ericka for the best love story ever told !