GWEN'S STORY
What does freedom mean to you?
Living in freedom means everything to me. It means that I get to serve another day in another way. I get to ask Him for my assignment each morning and shine his light. I get to touch lives around me, even when it can be challenging to do so. It also means that I must remain a life student constantly learning, growing and applying new lessons every single day.
Why did you pursue the Women in Freedom Photoshoot?
I wanted others to see that there is hope in achieving large and small goals and that aspirations can absolutely be met. Do not doubt yourself or your abilities!
Share a bit about your personal story and where you are today. In what ways have you stepped into your freedom recently?
Having been born into a life riddled with adversities; I was a foster care child, I survived a murder attempt in my mid-twenties and broke the chains of a narcissistic relationship at forty-eight, just to name a few. I learned to embrace each lesson and became a life student.
I'm a firm believer that we're each dealt a hand that we couldn't possibly be prepared for, and that's when we must push in to Christ for guidance, discernment and healing.
In relocating to Florida on my own, and starting the journey of what would become my brand new life, I've been able to trust my judgement and enjoy the consequences of this new life. I've learned to love myself and enjoy spending quality time alone. I appreciate the little moments and love my family and friends deeper than ever before. I'm able to be self reliant and absolutely confident every day.
How has this experience shaped the way you see yourself?
Oh, I see myself as an example of being a survivor as well as a life student. I'm always learning and participating in personal development in physical, mental and spiritual ways. I enjoy morning meditation, reading and physical activities. Meeting new friends and having new experiences adds a larger spectrum of joy to my daily routine and expands my felicity and confidence.
How has this life of freedom had a positive impact on you?
My life in Freedom has had such a positive impact on me only by also impacting those around me. In being true to myself I have to admit that, I thrive and my heart swells when I know that what I'm doing in my wandering is positively affecting those around me. Some of the best calls, texts and other messages are from friends, colleagues and even family are reaching out in the sweetest ways to tell me how my self-determination has touched their lives and encouraged them. It's rewarding in the sense that I truly feel I'm paying it forward with an auspicious shine.
What was the most meaningful aspect of this photoshoot to you?
The most meaningful facet of this photoshoot is that I wish to leave a legacy of bravery and confidence. I have no children of my own and so I hope to pour a bit of myself into the lives of my nieces and others who must know that He is also birthing in us such supplementary creations (talents) that are essential for us to share freely. Many of us travel to unfamiliar and deep corners of our hearts and become empowered in spite of the fear. If we're successful in shining our light into those crevices not yet seen or explored by the frailty of our fears, then we should do so with an open mind and and a boldness as if we're meant to share what we've been gifted to discover there.
How do you plan to hold onto this feeling of unique freedom?
I'm reminded of Ecclesiastes 4:21 that even though alone I can be weak, and that two can fight with the hope to defeat adversity, however a cord of three strands is more difficult to break. I will keep Him center in my life, no matter what.
Anything else you'd like to share?
We could all use a good cry from time to time, after all, even Jesus wept. - Me
"Failure is only the opportunity to 'begin again', this time more intelligently." - Henry Ford
INTERESTED IN SHARING YOUR STORY?
APPLY NOW FOR A CHANCE TO BE FEATURED.