There is nothing like being betrayed, slandered, mistreated, shamed, ostracized, and judged for things you didn't do.   The reality is, people like gossip and will talk!  All of us will experience this, in some way, at some point in our lives. People will do, lie and say the most aweful things to manipulate, gain control, to make themselves the victim, protect their lies and faults, to excuse their bad behavior, jealousy, to hinder you from growing or moving forward and for many other reasons! Through these unfortunate circumstances, I have mastered to STAND!  I have learned the importance of safe spaces to process, heal, and how to allow God be my Vindicator. Let them talk, but let YOUR character speak the loudest.

After the loss of my husband, the most traumatic event I have ever experienced, I found myself in grief, overwhelmed with navigating my new norm, and struggling with my new identity. Although my emotions were valid, I knew it was imperative that I trust God. I shifted my perspective and began to understand that I was not alone, forsaken or abandoned. My journey to intentionally heal (mind, body and spirit) has been tough, and I wouldn’t wish it on anyone.  However, it gave birth to something beautiful. Through one of the toughest seasons of my life, I have found my passion. Trusting God to turn my "pain into purpose" has been one of the greatest testimonies God could give me. 

Unhealed individuals attract unhealed individuals, whether platonic (friends/family) or romantic. There was a time I thought that if I could be the fixer, prove my love, loyalty, and worth, then everything would be okay. One day, I finally had enough and decided that I no longer desired to be the person to attract abusive, toxic and unhealthy relationships. I commited to "doing the work", finding out "why" I was like this, healing, and learning to love myself more than what I envisioned for the relationship connection. I began to prioritize my emotional and physical peace while  realizing that my worth was not predicated on the acceptance of someone else.  Most  importantly, I learned never to change the beautiful woman I am on the inside, trust my discernment and live life unapologetically.

As I reflect on my career as an Entrepreneur, I am extremely grateful. Many doubted that I would ever make it and have shared these exact thoughts with me. They could not envision how I could desire to leave secure employment to risk working for myself.  Looking back, I realize the only thing driving me was a dream and the desire that God placed on the inside of me. I started a new career from the ground up, without any prior experience. Fourteen years later I am still standing. Not only am I still thriving, but I have expanded into several other  businesses. The experiences, growth, and the lessons I've have learned have been invaluable. Yet, I remain eager, optimistic and excited to see how God will continue to use me. If I Can Do It......SO CAN YOU!