Miss to Mrs

Preparing for her new role.

And therein lies so many details when preparing to step into her new role. Hair… makeup… check. Not just these details, but all the internal prep work that goes into her presenting the best God-ordained version of herself at the altar.

For some, the bride’s agenda consists of a two to three hour prep list to complete before she feels ready. That is far from my story and God being my planner and coordinator knew exactly all the itemized details that we would have to go through before the exchange of I dos.

The big 30 came and passed without a ring. And sistas we all know the judgement and pressure that comes with that (smiles) from society, friends and those family members. My goodness. Those filled in brows begin to rise honey. But may I encourage you to not compare yourself to others or allow yourself to feel inferior to those with a different story. God always has a plan. There’s always a reason. And in His timing, you will find your greatest joy.

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

– 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

And in her twenties…

I had my plans (chuckles). But in this decade I was in a deep self-discovery phase. The outfits were cute honey. I had my highs in my cutest heels but certainly plenty of lows in some busted flats and chipped polish while learning who my real friends and family were. I didn’t see it then. But prayerfully in retrospect, I see the Lord was doing a cleansing and filtering of toxins from life life, all while beginning to establish healthy and well-needed boundaries, including healthy boundaries with myself. It took me really having to understand and digest the concept of submission and obedience. Listen, homegirl was still rockin her MAC Diva lipstick before learning the value of swatching the nudes. Laying bare, I had to safely be vulnerable in a quiet place with God.

Receiving his unconditional love in a deeper way by entering into a new level of trust through the pain of rejection and release allowed me to establish a more secure relationship in Him and truly offered me a clearer perspective of what a safe circle of influence looks like. It allowed me the space to truly understand how to better care for myself that would then allow me to be able to pour into others serving as a valuable gem that helped me understand the importance of pouring into my now husband from a place of overflow.

My twenties called me to a place of healing. People pleasing and timidity had to go. And girl, I was holding on to them as if we were best friends. These strongholds were a hinderance to turning my next page. Have you considered the strongholds or people that God may be wanting to release you from or perhaps the negative thinking patterns or wrongly owned self- sabotaging habits that God is strongly urging you to surrender so that you may enter his turning point for your life? Turn that page.

What you are willing to release won’t come close to what you will receive, requiring both bands. All the prep work is necessary and his timing is perfect. But you must let go and trust him.

At the altar.

With the exchange of vows came a new role and answered prayer. Little did I know, the Lord would open my womb to a little heart beat and kicking feet. My sister, remember God is faithful and his timing is perfect. Just when you feel behind, remember He knows exactly how to orchestrate all things for your story to be told at just the right time.

Mommy.

And as my life ever unfolds to this next exciting chapter, be expectant of the new roles God is calling you to. Your identity always remains in Him, being that strong woman and beautiful daughter of the most high. He designed you to embrace and own your truth, while being courageous to strut down your unique path with exciting turns. And with each pivot, give them full face, being unapologetic for the journey that takes you down the path to greatness. Sashay, girl.