When I was asked to be a guest blogger for “Loving On Me,” I had to stop and pray. After careful thought, I agreed.
My story is common. I was a young woman with gigantic dreams, a lot of ambition, and a strong will. I was loved by family, friends and those I encountered. I was determined to take the world by storm.
Unfortunately, life happened. At the age of seventeen I became pregnant. It was my senior year of high school. I was crushed. Embarrassed. Humiliated. The worst part was the disappointment I had caused my parents. How was I going to tell them? Would they still love me?
Luckily I have a mother who embraced me with open arms and I had a father (he has passed on) who was in the delivery room when I gave birth, coaching me on. My dear sweet mother couldn’t take it.
Being a young single mother was not easy. Becoming a mother of three kids before the age of twenty is crazy and damn near like setting yourself up for sure failure. Yes, seven months after giving birth to my first child, I was pregnant again with twins.
My parents’ love through this ordeal gave me the strength to hold my head up high; to challenge myself even more so. I made a promise to myself, my parents, and my children that I was going to make something of myself. I vowed to someday empower and inspire women to love themselves in spite of the mistakes they make.
Believe me, there were days I wanted to give up. I didn’t think life was worth living. My mother was very hard on me and my father constantly said never give up.
After a long journey of ups and downs, I’m now living my dream. My life has purpose. I know who I am and why I was created.
I’m a wife, mother of four and the CEO of “Women That Soar.” I’ve faced more than my share of trials and tribulations. Yet, I wouldn’t trade my life and what I’ve endured for anything.
You see, when we allow ourselves to go through the storm, we learn to appreciate the rainbow. I used to look back and wonder what my life would have become had I not become pregnant at a young age. I now know the answer to that question: unfulfilled.
Had I not experienced the discomforts I encountered, God wouldn’t have been able to mold and shape me into the woman I am today. I wouldn’t have learned patience. I wouldn’t have the knowledge and wisdom He gives freely. I wouldn’t be able to love the woman I’ve become. I wouldn’t be able to soar!
Now, when I’m asked to share my story or some people ask my secret to personal and professional success, I say, “There is no secret to success. Just allow yourself to grow through whatever you encounter. Learn to be content where you are each day. You’re there for a reason. Seek knowledge and wisdom. Enjoy life, because tomorrow is not promised. And learn to love yourself. The rest will follow.”
I’m blessed to have learned the advice I give to others. I’m blessed to wake each morning thankful for my entire life’s journey. I’m thankful for the love and patience of my parents. I’m thankful I have learned to love me some me!
Gina Grant is CEO of Women That Soar, a Dallas-based media and content development company. She is a wife, mother and resides in Mesquite, Texas.
Yvonne Crum says
You have brought the Sunshine to my life Gina.. and the rainbow is very bright because I know you.. keep on being you and never stop.. you are a ray of sunshine and I adore you… and all you do.. I am soaring because of you.. not high yet but getting higher each day with your encouragement.. !
ginagrant says
Yvonne, thank you for the lovely comment. You’re so special and dear to me. You illuminate joy and brilliance! Keep Soaring!
mrscrystalgking says
Gina, I am simply speechless! What an amazing journey filled with love that I could sense in every word that you’ve written. I admire you and I pray that you continue to shine your light so that it illuminates the path for others. I plan to share your words with others because your story is powerful. Wow, you are definitely a woman who soars!!!
ginagrant says
Everyone, your remarks warm my heart. I’m humbled. Thank you for Loving On Me.