grow.
2 Peter 3:18 AMP
“…but grow [spiritually mature] in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be glory (honor, majesty, splendor), both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.”
For the past four years, a project called "Grow with Grace" has been blossoming in my heart and mind. Its roots trace back to a series of unexpected and deeply challenging events that unfolded in my life at a time when everything seemed to be falling into place.
It was February 14, 2020—a day that would change everything for me. I’ll never forget the moment I took that pregnancy test. I positioned a mirror just so I could witness my own reaction. When I turned the test over and saw those two lines, pure joy flooded my heart. All I had ever dreamed of growing up was to be a mom, and here it was—my dream finally coming true!
But that joy was short-lived. In the blink of an eye, happiness gave way to shock. I remember staring at myself in that mirror, whispering, “HOLY SH*T.” With excitement, I rushed to share the news with my then-husband. His reaction, however, wasn’t what I had envisioned. In hindsight, it became clear that he wasn’t truly happy, even if he said otherwise. Deep down, I felt something was off—my intuition was trying to tell me something.
The truth eventually unraveled. At eight months pregnant, just after we had closed on our family home, I discovered he had been having an affair. We attempted to salvage our marriage through counseling and therapy. I sought help for my mental health and postpartum struggles, believing he was genuinely trying as hard as I was. But eventually, the truth emerged: I was being gaslighted, and I felt like I was losing my grip on reality.
I share this not to vilify my ex-husband but to illustrate the power of resilience. If I can overcome such a tumultuous experience, so can you. Perhaps you’re facing something similar, or maybe your struggles take a different shape. Regardless of the specifics of your story, remember: you have the power to change your outcome.
Throughout this journey, I have faced numerous unexpected challenges, yet I strive daily to be the best role model, mother, and person I can be. It’s not easy, but as humans, we are works in progress. Growth takes time, patience, and grace.
"Grow with Grace" is not just a project; it’s a reminder that we can emerge stronger from our struggles. Let’s embrace the journey, support one another, and continue to evolve into the best versions of ourselves. You are not alone in this, and together, we can thrive.
