As we honor the past women and celebrate the women of today, I can’t help but be utterly grateful. I am grateful to the author and perfector of my faith for the young woman I am becoming, but primarily for all the intelligent, brave, and inspiring women in my life.
While I continue to grow into the leader that God has called me to be and to serve those in my community, I can’t say I would be the leader I am today without the guidance of these women. Women who have guided me with grace, who have pushed me to achieve my maximum potential, and women who raised me to be the individual I am today.
God has blessed me with a sister who has not only been my biggest role model but also the mother figure in my life. She is the best person I know and my biggest supporter. I admire her intelligence, perseverance, and her heart. She raised me to be the best version of myself; she has taught me not to be afraid to chase my dreams, even if it means traveling hundreds of miles away, because no matter where I went, she would always be present. She taught me to have a strong work ethic and to be kind and compassionate. I want to give when I am able and be grateful for the small and big things in life. Her role and guidance in my life have empowered me and my character in more ways than she will ever know.
Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. – 1 Thessalonians 5:18
About three years ago, a family friend introduced me to one of my favorite pastors, who has become an inspiring role model for me. She has taught me to step outside my comfort zone, use my voice with purpose, and lead with joy, passion, and honesty. I see the significance of leadership and the joy it comes with. From organizing coat drives for the cold winters in New York City to hosting internship programs for young students to opening an Immigration Resources Center, where I’ve gained knowledge on how to better assist current and newly arrived immigrants in our community. She has taught me the importance of building community, that God is inclusive, and that we are all gifted in our own beautiful way. I hope one day I can be half the leader she is to other young women and embrace them as she embraces me and my gifts.
Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its variant forms. – 1 Peter 4:10
During my first year in NYC, I was fortunate to receive an opportunity to volunteer at a remarkable organization. I met some of the most brave, kind and inspiring women in my life today. They have supported me beyond imagination and taught me that no dream is too big or small to reach. They inspired me to see beyond my story, beyond my struggles, because we each have a story, and it’s what we make out of it that matters. They are the village I didn’t know I needed until I met them.
God works in mysterious ways, but I don’t believe He does anything by accident.
If God placed that dream in your heart, you are meant to chase it, and if He closed that door, it’s because He has something much better to offer you. Don’t give up, don’t lose faith, and keep your eyes on Him because you are worthy of it all and have a purpose.
Embrace one another, build your village of women, and never doubt that you are worthy, powerful, and deserving of every opportunity God sends to pursue your dreams.
Happy Women’s History Month!