Last weekend, I was blessed with the opportunity to be the guest speaker at a brunch for an organization called Destined Shades of Purpose. This is a program that mentors young women from elementary school through high school. They tackle hard topics like anxiety and self confidence and even teach fun things like makeup! The mentors and mentees are also quite active in the community participating in a variety of outreaches.

I was vaguely familiar with the organization when I was asked to speak. Two girls from our youth group are members and I had seen some pictures posted online of their different events and outreaches. That was about all that I knew about it, beside that it was faith based, when I agreed to be a part of the ceremony. Every thought running through my head was full of excuses and reasons that I could give the lovely lady inviting me the answer of no! I had never spoken before besides in our youth group. I quickly answered yes, before I could talk myself out of it.

I prayed and prayed about what to speak about it. I felt confident in what the Lord has given me, but that still didn’t mean that I wasn’t nervous!!

It was a beautiful brunch, I was so blessed and honored to play any small part! I was even introduced by one of my youth girls! ❤️❤️❤️❤️

I left this brunch with such a full and thankful heart!!

I watched as they honored each girl with certificates and gift bags. They also specially honored my two girls, who happen to be graduating out of the program (since they are about to graduate high school next week).

Otis and I spent some time speaking with the founder. We made sure she had our contact info. We told her that she can count on us to be praying over their work and to let us know if they ever need any help. The work they are doing is SO VALUABLE AND IMPORTANT!!

This life is not about competition. We shouldn’t feel like these girls should only be a part of our youth group. Students today face so much pressure!! They need support – as much as they can get!! It really does take a village!! Let’s support one another!