Perfect Life 

As I embark on my first blog, I find myself asking, “Where do I start?” This question has lingered in my mind for nearly two months. However, after hearing my uncle deliver a sermon titled “Wake Up the Gift of Boldness,” I realized the significance of his message. God has given me an important assignment, and I have been wrestling with and procrastinating on accepting it. Sharing my life requires a level of vulnerability, which means being open and honest. As someone who values their privacy, I am selective about the personal details I share with others. Yet, I am reminded of the scripture: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and love and a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7).

It’s time for me to embrace this gift and move forward confidently. My story begins right here!

I grew up with my mom, dad, and sister in Peoria, IL. My sister and I were one year and six months apart, which made me the baby. Yes, I lived up to my title "baby." I was known as a crybaby and mama's baby. I was like a little koala clinging to my mom whenever you saw me. My mom didn't have to work, and my dad was the provider, ensuring we were well cared for. My dad kissed my mom before leaving for work. His hard work allowed our family to live in a nice neighborhood with a swingset in our backyard. My sister and I would play with the neighborhood kids for hours while Mom fixed lunch, and playtime was interrupted by lunch and afternoon naps. We placed sheets over a blowing fan, crawled under it, and napped. Life was perfect, with memorable moments, from family time to visiting family and playing badminton in our backyard. I still remember the drive-in movies, packing snacks, and my potty chair because I was too small for the potties inside. Those were the good old days. Another fond memory didn't mind. I disliked the comparison; I looked like my dad, sister, and mom. Don't get me wrong; my dad wasn't ugly, but my mom was beautiful in my eyes. My childlike mind took that comparison literally. Who knew that every time I heard it, it would cause a complex about my appearance? Looking in the mirror, I started seeing my imperfections. The darkness above my lip looked like a mustache, my thick Elvis sideburns, and my big nose on my little round head. These same views would impact my confidence. Many childhood memories I learned shaped my adult perspective and self-esteem. When children dislike their appearance or feel unhappy with their bodies, their self-esteem can suffer. Their self-image impacts every aspect of their lives—both negatively and positively—including their short-term and long-term choices.