Some Red Boots and a Dream (a five minute friday)

My Five Minute Friday on: Red

I have watched her presentation so many times I might be able to recite it myself.

A passion inspired by pain, lit by the hope of redemption.

Her words meant to encourage and teach. To give Moms and Dads tools to keep their little ones safe. And their older ones, too.

It was God that brought us together in the first place. My own experience with childhood sexual abuse meeting her compassion and love for those who have suffered.

And now, we journey together, spreading a message of protection and prevention, through Rise and Shine Movement, to whoever is willing to listen.

She stands tall in front of the MOPS group, microphone in hand and her trademark red boots on her feet. She knows the importance of her words, how sensitive she needs to be. Because it's likely one of the precious women listening today is a survivor or knows someone who is.

She gives tips and parenting advice. But more than that, she encourages parents to talk to their kids. Not just about the safe topics, but about the ones that give us anxiety. About how surprises are better than having secrets in a family and how kids shouldn't be forced to hug or kiss Aunt Polly or Uncle Joe if they don't want to. And how kids should know they can say no to adults if they make them feel uncomfortable.

I watch her with pride recalling the path that brought her behind the podium. How God gave her words for a children's book that was many, many years in the making. And how the right illustrator and the right videographer/editor came together to create a living, breathing version of the book so parents could watch it online for free with their kids.

I don't know where God is taking Rise and Shine Movement. And I don't know the amazing ways He will use this ministry to help others.

But I'm following those red boots and a dream and I hope you might, too.


Linking today with Lisa-Jo…