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…
7 comments:
Bless you on your amazing journey! Thank you for sharing on FMF!
I love the red boots. I think it sends such a message. That you (she) will not hide. That you are a light showing the world that you will not be hidden. I wish you much joy in your mission.
Thank you for sharing this so beautifully! May God continue to bless you both as you faithfully serve him!!!
Thank you for sharing a piece of you and your heart for this ministry. I agree with Kerri, love the red boots. Blessings to you as you continue to follow those boots.
Oh what a testimony!
This has glory written all over it--which is hard to do with such a heart-wrenching...I hate calling it a subject because it's more than that.
Thank you for sharing!
Thank you all for your encouraging comments! The topic is difficult, but necessary to bring out into the light. I appreciate you taking the time to visit and leave a note!
Christy
This is great. Those red boots are fantastic, too. Have you heard of the program, Darkness to Light? It was started in our community and provides vital training for parents and caregivers. It isn't an easy topic, but I'm so, so glad I went through the course. So proud of you for helping others in this way.
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