She Shines Anyway

Dedicated to my daughters and granddaughters

We are raising daughters who know their worth.

They stand their ground, not out of defiance,

But because their spirits were never meant to be small.

They are strong, but not hardened.

Independent, yet deeply connected.

Soft where it matters, and bold when it’s needed.

They don’t move to please the world —

They move with purpose, with clarity, and with heart.

They’re learning that being a woman means choosing themselves without guilt.

Holding boundaries without apology.

Being kind, without being walked over.

They are not afraid to take up space —

emotionally, mentally, spiritually.

And they will never shrink to make others feel more comfortable.

We’re not just raising girls.

We are raising women who will lead with love, set boundaries, rise with grace, and change the world simply by being all they are.

And when the world tries to dim her light —

She shines anyway

My two daughters had just finished the Spartan Challenge. It's a challenging obstacle course, and I am proud to say they stayed tough and completed it. Their smiles told me how proud they were to stay the course and finish the race.

And that's precisely what Jesus wants us to do.

2 Timothy 4:7 says, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."

This verse highlights the importance of perseverance, faithfulness, and completing God's task.

Hebrews 12:1 reads: "Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us."

Acts 20:24 also speaks to this idea, with Paul stating, "But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus

Essentially, "finishing the race with endurance" means pressing on in faith, trusting God's guidance, and persevering through challenges, ultimately reaching the goal He has set for you.

Here is a picture of my two granddaughters, the other girls in my life. They both have the markings of future warriors in the making.

God's Word provides guidance, encouragement, and strength for our journey.

Prayer is a vital source of strength and connection with God.

Fellowship with other believers provides support and accountability

Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus and the ultimate goal of eternal life.

Credit: Natasha Ann / Larry Edge

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