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Women on the Grow sharing their story...
I received
an email today from you called “you are amazing”. Laurie - Minneapolis, MN -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Praise The Lord Sis Taylor:
I just wanted to send a
short e-mail out to the Lady who had the courage to admit
that she is in a relationship with a married man. I for one
commend you for being hones, confession openly is good for
the soul. I was in a similar situation in 2002 & 2004. I
grew up in the church and I am a saved woman. I fell, and
when I came to myself I was totally in a confused state. I
allowed my spouse of 20 years to make me think that I was no
good and that God would not forgive me. We all know that
this is a lie. I have come back to Christ, repented, and am
living for the Lord and witnessing about his love,
compassion and mercy...... I will admit it was not easy but
the Lord allowed my Pastor Carl Johnson of Pillar & Ground
of Truth in Chester PA to standby my side along with his
wife, the saints and the prayers of the righteous to see me
through. I prayed , fasted, laid on the altar and stayed
before God so that I could get my soul right with Jesus: I
thank God for the blood that Jesus shed on the cross, and
how he took the victory out of death and sin......... Just
like Mary of Magdalene I found peace with God and life is
now so sweet. If I can move on so can you. Remember it is
just a temporary inconvenience for a permanent
improvement..........I will continue to pray for you.
God Bless,
Sis Ira Deal of Pillar &
Ground of Truth, Chester PA (I give you permission Dr.
Taylor to reprint and use my story in and on your website)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- "I am new to the website. I read your book "Shift Happens" and the book has helped me to cope with my life as a whole. I started being honest with myself before I read the book but since then it has made my life more bearable. Just recently I lost my home on my birthday due to financial difficulty in my life not being able to balance or budget my money right and my sister was living with me so I felt responsible for her. I am still depressed and down on myself, I have a relationship with the Lord and a active member in church. I have been through so much in my life this threw me over the top, and I felt like my whole world was crashing in. I wanted to ball up and just die but I know I have so much to live for I am only 31. Ms. Jewel, you are a blessing not to only me but millions of women around the world who feel they are in this by them selves . I thank God that he has given me another chance to change my life for my good and for the generation to come. I would like to know how I can be apart of the Women on the Grow . I want to be apart of something bigger than me and I grew up as an only child, so this experience would be great. I am wondering when you are going to speak in Pittsburgh? God bless you Ms. Jewel. Thank you." ~ D. Blackshear -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hi Dr. Taylor I have been reading a lot of people’s stories on your web site and I can relate to so many! First I would like to thank you for being such an inspiration to me and all women on the grow! We have never met but I feel like you are a very good friend! I see you God in you! Second, I would like to thank every one who has posted their story on your web site. I read their stories and start to think my life is not that bad. I relate with so many of the stories. I am also currently involved with a married man. I am not proud of this and feel very ashamed. I fell into this relationship after my son’s father took me through four years of heartache and pain. I started feeling as if I was nothing. I gave this man everything. For the first time in my life I felt like I was not pretty and had nothing to offer anyone else. I am also afraid and tired of being alone. I also can relate with women who wrote about their torrid past sexual relationships. I am very upset with myself for letting men use me and not caring about myself. I want to start over, but know that I can’t. Now I just want to start new. I want to go from today and change my life. I have a handsome son whom God has blessed with. Reading the stories people have left on your web site has made me want to change things in my life starting now. I have decided to break the relationship off with the married man. I am going to start praying more and wait on God to send me someone that He would have to be with me and in my son’s life. I want my son to have a good role model in his life. I also don’t want to have any more sexual partners. Having different sexual partners opens me up for so many harmful things and my son deserves to have his Mommy around. So I ask that you pray with me while I start a “new” me and have faith in my Lord that He will do all things He promised He would do. I was raised in church all my life and somewhere along the line, I let the devil in and take over. Well, the devil is a lie and I am taking my life back today! God bless you and continue to do what God has you doing for the glory of His kingdom. You are touching lives and reaching women everywhere and I know you will be rewarded! You have my permission to reprint – D. H. in Oklahoma City, OK -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- "Four years ago I weighed 400 pounds. For my birthday, that year, my doctor told me that I was "morbidly obese" and that if I didn't get control of my weight, the quality of the rest of my life would be zero and I might as well be dead. He just didn't know that for years, I had already been praying for death. I didn't want to live another year, month or day as a 400 lb. woman. Obesity is not a choice. It's a disease, just as real and deadly as alcoholism, drug addiction and a nicotine addiction. Believe me, no one wants to be an alcoholic, a junkie or a fat person. I wanted out - I wanted death. Four years ago today (February 24) I underwent weight loss surgery. That's the day my prayer was answered. 400 lb. Karen died. I lost my job I had for 20 years. I lost my house, my retirement and even some of my friends. But God gave me more than I knew what to pray for. I prayed for death and He gave me that and a new life. God allowed me to lose 240 lbs. Today I have a new job, the best job I've ever had. I have a new car (with a sunroof), a new house with a jacuzzi tub and God blessed me with the best friends anyone could ever have or will have. I have an amazing Pastor and a wonderful church family. This morning, 4 years later to the day - I died and was reborn. I want to thank God for the death and thank and praise God even more for my new life." ~ Karen – Bowie, Maryland --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hi Jewel,
Thank you for the encouraging e-mail. Since you were here in
Dallas the last time (in 2007) there have been so many positive
occurrences in my life. Where do I start? First let me give
you props for being a catalyst in my transformation, but the
major glory goes to God. I woke up and got up. I have lost 35
lbs so far and am still losing; numerous inches, from size 18/20
to 12/14. I also lost some dead weight in the form of a man - I
got a divorce. I recently went to the doctor and she declared
me diabetes-free. My life is more balanced. I enjoy myself
more, hey I love myself. You know why? Because God loves me.
I have improved relationships. I am now able to give love
freely whereas before I was so bound by past hurts and
bitterness. And guess what? God put a song in my heart and now
I can sing. I had my 'spiritual Broadway debut' in church
during Black History Month. I tell you it was absolutely
awesome the way God orchestrated His purposes in that event. It
has been miracle after miracle and blessing after blessing. The
most important thing is that I live my life fully committed to
the up building of the His Kingdom. I love you, Jewel and thank
you very much. Be blessed. ~ Blessings and love, Mildred
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Jewel I wanted to let you know that I have read your book " You
Deserve More" and truly enjoyed reading it. Since 2004, my life
has been an emotional roller coaster. Today, I am able to really
say that I deserve more and surround myself with positive &
inspirational people. In November 2004, after telling my husband
that I was no longer in love with him, he pulled a knife on me
& raped me in front of my 1 year old son. I filed a protective
order against him, but 2 weeks later he kidnapped me from a
local shopping area and held me for two hours telling me that he
was going to "blow my brains out". He only released me after I
had sex with him in the front seat of my car. In February 2005,
my husband made one final attempt to get me. He entered the
home where I was staying and proceeded to assault me. God only
knows why he did not kill me. I was kicked, bitten and pistol
whipped. Later, on at the hospital I was informed by police
that he committed suicide in his car. If that was not enough for
me to loose my mind, In May 2005, my eldest son, 18 years old at
the time was arrested for 1st degree murder for a former
childhood bully. On May 3, 2006, on my late husbands birthday,
my son was convicted of the murder and sentenced to 35 years at
the Maryland Department of Corrections. It is now 2008 and
I am attempting to move forward. I have purchased a condo for me
& my younger son, I am a member of the National Coalition
Against Domestic Violence and with the grace of God, I am the
founder of Mentor, Encourage, Lift and Love, Inc., a non profit
organization for teen parents. I thank God everyday for keeping
me alive on February 10, 2005. He wanted to do so much more with
my life. My younger son, now 5 years old, is a blessing. He
attends a Christian school and is able to recite simple bible
versus and my older son, now 21 years old is coming to terms
with his prison sentence.
I
feel truly blessed. I just want women to know that no matter
what they are going through or have been through, that there is
a tomorrow. Just pray and have faith." ~
Tammie
Odenton Maryland
You have my permission to
publish and use my name
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- My name is Lakisha Ivory. I was recently let go from a stressful job. I am not wanting or lacking for anything, physically and financially. It is my dream to be self employed and to work in the entertainment industry. I am currently an honor roll student at an online university. Now I have so much time on my hands, I am always asking for the Lord to reveal himself unto me, as far as what I want to do with my life. I know that I want to be an actress, but I don’t live in the market (California or New York) and can’t afford to take my son from his father and travel around chasing my dream, also, I do not look like the actresses that you see on television. I am 5’0, size 10, with facial skin flaws. The funny thing is that everyday, I pray for God to reveal his purpose to me. Let me know what I should be doing. I cry every time I see someone on television, internet, etc., get the chance to live there dream, yet still I wonder what I am here for. I am a Christian, so I know that “I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me!” (After all Whoopi Goldberg is an actress). But yet I still try to deny what’s in me everyday. I heard so much as a teenager, that I should be on television. At that time nothing was there to stop me from doing so, (other than fear of change and failure) but as a mommy, I just can’t leave my son and don’t have the heart to take him from his father. So what do I do, besides cry and try to deny? I pray…. Results… Same thing!!!! What do I do? Today… I typed in my Comcast search engine…”Lord help me please!” and your poem came up. It helped me tremendously. Thanks so much for being obedient to make sure those words were there for others in their time of need. I may be in the same place that I was in yesterday, but I am there, encouraged and willing to be guided and strengthened daily until my dream has come true. I know, “Faith without works is dead!” So, now I am praying for guidance to get me where I need to be. Today, I just wanted to take time to say thanks! Thanks for your “Women on the Grow” words and website. Keep this up. It helped me and I am sure it will help others. Here is a poem. Note: I am free styling as my previous laptop with all of my poetry was stolen and I have not taken time to write anymore. “Today” Today is not like yesterday, Why? You may say! Because today, I get my way When I got on my knees to pray Please don’t leave me astray You know what He said? “My word will not return to you void or dead, So lift up your head Be strong and take up your bed” Cry no more for I am here To decrease pain and fear For new things shall appear Your hearts desire I hold near and dear Remember all that has been taught Chase dreams? Hmm… that have already been caught! Look forward and not behind Avoid becoming a pillar of salt Keep the faith, continue to exalt My name and not the fame He or she is not to blame Let’s not play that game You are the reason I came To bring life not death For into you is the breath Of he who brings wealth So… Today! Continue to seek me And I will bring to you All things you desire And trust me, because all I say is true. ----------------------------------------------------
I wanted to thank
you for Lord, I am a woman-on-the-grow. At this time there are
many things going on in my life, teen pregnancy, addiction
crisis, job struggles, but GOD is above all things. And your
poem I will read it daily. Please keep me in your prayers.
Sincerely, Ingrid D. Harris A woman on the Grow.
---------------------------------------------------- I met a man and thought I was in love. I should have known something was wrong because he was older than me and living with his mother. He ended up moving in with me and everything was fine for a while. Then he started quitting job after job, and would lie around the house all day and stay out all night. I was working two jobs and living a daily hell. I had found out I was pregnant and I felt as if I had no option but to try to work it out. Even after the baby he would not work and I didn't even get to stay off my six weeks because the bills were still coming in. We had a joint checking account and my check was direct deposited. He would take my money and buy flowers for other women. These women would even threaten me with bodily harm. Finally in Dec. 2004 I decided to start the next year off right and I left him. He told me I wouldn't make it on my own. I will admit it was rough and it still is. At first my son and I lived in a seedy one bedroom apartment in a bad neighborhood. I was so depressed and I asked the lord all the time, why me? I am trying to do right and I just can't get ahead. Then my car broke down and I had no way to work, but the lord started blessing me in abundance. I was able to get another car and then he blessed me to be able to move into a new 3 bedroom 2 bath house. It is still hard being a single mom with all these bills. I am working on my relationship with God and I pray he sends me a husband who is caring and a good father figure for my child. Sometimes it just eats me up that his father doesn't pay child support hardly at all but can afford a new truck but I am working on my anger and I am going to let the lord deal with him. I would just like to say to everyone be blessed and take care and even if you want to give up and you feel like hope is gone just pray to the lord for guidance. ~ N. F. ---------------------------------------------------- Jewel, thank you for the website. I find your website very encouraging and inspiring. Please add me to your mailing list. The journal entries are so motivating and touching. It is truly great to be able to bond with my sisters and have them to share their stories and offer positive advise. I am a 33 yr old single mom of two sons ages 11 and 9. Even though I find this job rewarding, I also find it very trying. Currently I am trying to work on getting back into school and obtain my Bachelors degree. I have delayed going back to school for so long due to the fact that I am raising my sons alone and that is a process. I have to work full time, then when I leave work, I have children to come home to and make sure they complete homework, have dinner and get into bed just to have to start all over the next day with the same routine. However your website has motivated me so much. I have actually contacted a college that will suit my needs and hopefully I can start towards the end of this month. I know that if I focus and remember that God has my back, there is nothing that can stop me. So, I will continue to pray and keep my faith and ask God to continue to lead the way for me. You have my permission to reprint this message and please add me to your e-mail list. Thank you. ~ msbrenincola ----------------------------------------- I just wanted to thank you for giving me new hope and understanding! Though it was only yesterday when I first heard your ever so soothing voice and felt God’s serene spirit flow from you (all the way to the back of the church), I am already greatly changed for the better! I am confident that this is not just momentary motivation I am experiencing. I know that you have been sent by our Mighty Lord and Savior to firmly plant me in position as a life-time member of “Women on the Grow.” Since I wanted to purchase all four of your books (like all women, I love a discount) but was not able to do so yesterday, I have started walking in my New Day with The 12 Faces of Eve. It is amazing how much my spirit has been fed already. I would love to spend more time telling you how much this little book has already empowered me (I’m only half-way thru it) but I vowed to finish my first reading of it today. Thank you so much for allowing God to use you to jumpstart the lives of women! As a mother of four sons (41, 40, 35 and 28), now raising my beautiful 14-year old granddaughter. I have always had so much I wanted (and still want) to give to others. But God, through you, has shown me that I can now freely start my Grow without guilt! Hallelujah! (Just learning what you said... that “No.” is a complete sentence, made my day, Okaaay!) Much honor, love and thanks to you, for you are truly gifted of God. I pray God’s continued blessings on you! - Fran (California) --------------------------------------------------------
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Hi
Diamond
I want to thank you for being who you are. You
haven’t met me and I haven’t met you. But just visiting your web
site has really given me a whole new look about life and about
the way things happen. I have came to know the truth about the
things that happen in my life that I do have a choice I can
either complain about it. Or I can get up and do something about
it even the things that I can’t change I can choose how to
respond to the changes in my world. I was feeling down just a
few days ago and that is when I found you. In so many ways you
have save me from worry pain and disappointment. To me you are a
gift from God and I thank him for you. You have really inspired
me. You have let me know that what ever I am going through I
will come out on top. All I have to have is a little faith as
small as a muster seed and I can move mountains. Have
you been to Philadelphia Pa there is a community collage called
Montgomery county
community collage? They
have this woman’s group at the collage to help women make
changes in their lives and met other women just like them that
are going through changes too. I gave the Lady that talks to the
women your webs site because you are such a big help to women
all over the world I know that she can use your web site to help
the other women. The name of the group is called
new choices new option
that group have really help me make my changes in my life when I
was in Philadelphia. Thank you so much my sister in Christ.
To The Self-Esteem DR
You have my permission to reprint
-------------------------------------------------------------- I just wanted to let you know how much you encouraged me! Saturday (March 2006 Women on the Grow Day) was the first time I had the pleasure to meet you and to be blessed with your message first hand. WHAT A BLESSING! I went straight home and cleared out clutter in my home that had been there for at least three years (stagnation). I know now the psychological connection I had to those things, a fear that I had that prevented me from releasing those things. I have been able to sleep better, be more productive in my job and more loving to myself for just these past three days. l am loving the change in ME! Also, I lost my beloved grandmother last year, your message was right on time, to "sit with your grief" I miss her so much, but your words were oh so encouraging. I have been sharing with everyone that has an ear how your message touched me. THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! ~ Sharrone - Richmond, Calif. ---------------------------------------------------------------
Dear Jewel
"After reading your inspirational messages for about 10 years, I attended my first seminar with a friend on Saturday in Silver Spring, MD. I GOT MY BULLETS and I am ready for this journey! I always thought I had no problem with self-esteem; feeling that I'm a pretty confident 52 year old woman. I know now that it is a problem for me. The issues you brought up were great for the younger women who were present because they can possibly (and hopefully) avoid some of the problems low self-esteem can cause. However, for this "seasoned" woman, I came away with a new lease on life. I will do things differently now. I will react to situations differently now. I will go out and purchase a crown from a costume store so that I will be a reminder for me to not let it drop. Should it drop along the way, I'll see it and remember to pick it up and get back on track. My girlfriend who came with me said she was going to get one on her way home and go in her house wearing it.
I
am so glad you came to the East coast and I pray that you will
come back for an entire weekend of sessions! Stay strong and
may God continue to richly bless you!"
~ A woman on the grow from Pikesville, MD
--------------------------------------------------------------- Dear Jewel This year for me has been an
emotional roller coaster! Response from the Self-esteem Dr.
The fact that you are reaching out is a GOOD start.
You can't hide anything from God. He is not
disgusted
with you. He can and will forgive you. God is not
your problem.
The call and seduction of sex, alcohol and the temporary
comfort of a man are your problems.
If you feel ashamed going to the same church where he
attends...then find another one. You're probably still
going there so you can see him. Honey...he is not going
to leave his wife.
Being alone is not the worse thing in the world.
You can't die from being alone on Friday night.
You can die from creeping around and killing
your
body with alcohol.
You are blessed. You have been pre-approved for a home.
GO GET YOUR HOUSE GIRL !!!!!
Stop the foolishness and get busy living your life in order
so God can REALLLLLLY bless you.
I know it will be a daily struggle NOT to pick up the phone
and call him....but if you really want a new and free life
so Mr. Right can find you...then anything is possible with
faith, wisdom, discipline, a willing heart and the joy of the
Lord in your heart. Change your focus and you will change
the results in your life.
---------------------------------------------------------------
My dear Sister in Christ,
I thank God for the wonderful way he is shaping you and
directing your "ministry." I was thrilled to see the loving
outpouring of support for you on Saturday. It proves
without a doubt that you have a committed and loving circle
of sisters who are sitting at your feet listening like
attentive children to the sage advice of a mother.
Jewel, I have to tell you that when God touched you to
share with us that you life has not always been as wonderful
as it seems and that you too have had challenges in
relationships, it was affirming that you are sharing what
the Holy Spirit has given you through your victory. We
bless you for the courage and willingness to be transparent
with us.
As I mentioned before, I have walked through the storm,
listening to the Word of God, leaning not unto my own
understanding, but with every step following the path
designed for my life. I want you to know that my
realization as to why I was stuck in depression, low self
esteem and the inability to even stand was directly related
to the toxic 12 year relationship I allowed to continue. I
allowed it to continue because after a few years he had
separated me from my friends and family and I didn't believe
anyone would be there for me. I was convinced that no one
would love me but him. And in the most twisted way - he
convinced me that it was best for me to be with him. But
honey, "him" was married, but not living with his wife,
"him" was living with another woman all the 12 years, "him"
left her promising to have a live with me, I gave up
everything to get a house to make a "home." "HIM" stayed
THIRTY days! Then he left and went back home. But that
wasn't enough for me, I let him convince me that in fact I
would have the best of both worlds. He would still me "my
man" and take care of me. Just not in the middle of the
night when I might want to reach out, or on holidays when I
want to share special times with him. And for 12 years, I
tried to get out and he always had a clever way to convince
me to stay.
But Glory be to God. When I recommitted myself to walk with
Jesus and he wouldn't go to church we me, didn't want me to
go, accused me of having affairs with the pastor and any
other man in the church, I said "wait a minute" I've given
you too much and will not let you steal my blessing and my
salvation. Oh girl, I sat him down, full of fear (because
he had a violent tendency) and confronted the evil spirit
that would not let me go. I told him that it was "God, the
Father" whom I love and I hadn't loved him for a long time.
I was held hostage and sinning myself into hell. I said
with conviction that I will not allow you to make me burn in
hell.
This was the only augment I had ever advanced that he would
not respond to. He just said, well if you say so, you go on
with your life and see. It won't be long before you realize
that you can't live without me.
Oh no? Well Jewel since then, I got up, I wrote down my
goals, I scratched out and off any plans that included him.
I forgave myself for being foolish, allowing him to
manipulate my finances, distance me from my professional
development and began to meditate on being free. Free to
make my own decisions, free to try to do the things around
the house he would do = when he could get by. Free to love
the Lord without qualification or explanation - free to
minister to other sisters by my testimony.
I worked out my finances, used my own assets. Refinanced my
house, became debt free - living a purposeful life and
marveling in the spirit of sisterhood that has helped me on
this journey. I know there were some praying sisters who
were lifting me up in prayer. There are the sisters in my
immediate circle, but sisters like Judith who I knew felt
the pressure of my heart and with her smile encouraged me.
I can't tell you how much your love and support has done in
my life. A few years ago, I was seeing a therapist, taking
medication, crippled by depression. When I began to take
off the 12 faces of eve, knowing that I am too blessed to be
stressed, picking up my crown, remembering my jewels and
acknowledging that Desperation is not a fragrance I will
ever wear again - I know the fullness of life and all its
glory. God's grace has brought me through, administered the
Balm of Gilead on my wounds and now, nary a trace of the
toxic environment shows on my face. Praise God for you,
Jewel - You helped me grow into a woman of purpose and
conviction.
I love you my sister. Stay strong and "do not give up!"
Peace and blessings,
Sheila (Washington D. C.)
--------------------------------------------------------------- One of the biggest stumbling blocks
to our peace of mind, self-esteem and spiritual growth is the pain
of disappointments in our relationships. What does healthy love look
and feel like? Why did I ignore the red flags waving? Why do I sit
by the phone waiting and waiting? Will somebody love me?
Why am I still alone? These questions can haunt you and hinder you.
Is your life on hold? How is your self-esteem?
Dear Jewel and Denise, ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Praise the Lord Jewel , Hi Diamond, Thanks for all the motivation you give through your weekly email messages. This particular hit me real hard because I have felt God calling me to greater heights of success but I have felt tired and felt I needed to have a break. But I think the real reason for not going on with it was the fear of the load of responsibility. Thank you for the encouragement to get out of the comfort zone and start climbing the ladder to success one step at a time. Thank you, Sheila Mbabazi, Kampala, Uganda East Africa ---------------------------------------------------------------
Hi Jewel,
I have been
receiving your emails for quite some time, at least 3 years I
think. This email really hit me today. God has been speaking
to me about my calling, in a very big way. I keep thinking that
I am not ready, because what He has given me to do is so much
larger than myself, I guess that is why He gave it to me,
because I have to do it in His strength. Thank you for
encouraging me to receive what I have been promised.
Blessings,
veruschka buhrmester
surry hills nsw 2010 australia --------------------------------------------------------------- "My name is Brenda and I am 54 year old African American sista who met you at the Stay in the Light Akiele Woman's Retreat in New York. Since hearing your words of motivation and inspirations I went back to college and completing a Bachelor's of Science in June 2005. Your inspirational books and you have inspired me and help to build my confidence in myself. Going back to school and completing this first degree was among my wildest dreams, however, my future plans entails me a Masters Degree in SW at Hunters College. Please add me to your weekly distribution list. I am going to need your motivational e-mails. " Lots of love Brenda C. - easy does it -------------------------------------------------------------------------- HAVING BEEN A WOMAN OF
CHRIST I HAVE BEEN BLESSED IN SO MANY WAYS. LAST YEAR (2004) I HAD
A MAJOR ILLNESS, COULD NOT FIND ANY HELP BUT I PRAYED DAILY WITHOUT
CEASING ASKING GOD TO HELP ME, ASKING HIM NOT TO LEAVE NOR FORSAKE
ME. AND HE DID JUST THAT. WHEN A CLOSE FAMILY MEMBER DECIDED TO
TAKE ME FOR "HELP" THE TRADITIONAL WAY ( I LIVE IN SWAZILAND,
AFRICA), I SAID NO, INSTEAD I OPTED TO GO TO A DOCTOR IN SOUTH
AFRICA. AND TRUE TO HIS WORD, GOD WAS ON MY SIDE, I WAS HEALED, NOT
BY THE DOCTOR BUT BY THE POWER OF FAITH, I HAD FAITH IN THAT DOCTOR
FROM THE MOMENT I ENTERED HIS SURGERY. I AM PROUD TO SAY TODAY THAT
I BELIEVE IN THE MIGHTY POWER OF PRAYER AND WISH OTHER WOMEN WOULD
DO THE SAME. PRAY WITHOUT CEASING. --------------------------------------------------------------- My name is Rosslyn Wright and my spirit is always lifted when I receive your e-mails of encouragement. I would like to tell my story to women who may be going through something. Whether they are seeking a mate or trying to find themselves, I would like to offer words of encouragement. Inspiration in Desperation - When I look back over my life experiences, I can truly say that I have been blessed in a lot of mess. I am a single black woman with no children. I desperately seek God for a husband and children. I have been proposed to several times. I believe God had his hand in it at all times. Who I thought was the perfect mate, God knew it wasn't so. What I have learned through all my relationships is that I had to get me together. Although, I thought I had it going on with a great paying job, car, etc. I had some things in my life that needed addressing. I wasn't aware of how dominate and controlling I was, until I observed my closest family members who were women and realized I act just like them. I didn't like how they would act motherly to their spouses. I didn't like how they told them what to do and how to do it. I said Lord Help me, I am just like them. I found that I attracted the same kinds of men, needy men. Men that didn't have much and the women in my family were acting as the head of the household. You see, sometimes if you ask God to expose you and anything that isn't pleasing in his sight to reveal it, make sure you are ready for the truth. I always like handsome men. I have learned now to like a man who loves me and loves himself. When two people get together they bring on all their past experiences, hurts, pains, baggage, etc. Most people came from different backgrounds and upbringings. You must learn where they came from and what it was like to live in their home. You must try to walk in his shoes in order to understand your man. Everyone needs deliverance before they get together with a mate. Seek love and compassion in every situation. Trust that God will give you the desires of your heart when you are ready. In the meantime, while you are waiting on God to bring you that special mate. Focus on you, get you together. Write a list of the things you always wanted to do and do it! Clean out that closet in your house and in your mind of all that old belongings. Some people are still holding memories of Johnnie, Tony, etc. They have been out of your life so why do you continue to let them live in your life, your mind, your heart, and most of all your mouth. So what he walked out on you and you are still trying to figure out what happen. What happen is he exposed himself to you for who he really is. Do you want to be with the wrong man just to say you have a man? Or would you prefer a man who loves, respects, and cherishes you. Pay attention to all the signs of the man you are dating because there are signs. Decide if this is a man you could live with for the rest of your life. The most important thing is does he have a relationship with God. Does he fear God? When a man fears God, his conscience will remind him when he is wrong and he will seek forgiveness. So, thank God for taking all the mess out of your life, so you can live a enjoy a good man when he finds you. Deliver thyself. Pray for God to deliver the man you love. God has now blessed me with the man of my desire and a God fearing man. We pray together, fast, and seek God for guidance. I pray that someone who reads this may transform their life and know that if that man broke your heart praise God, thank God for saving you. It may not seem as though God cares, but honey he cares that's why he allow that man to walk out of your life because he loves you so much. Trust God, all you were going though was nothing but life experiences to make you a better person for humanity. Pray, Pray, and Fast on anything you what God to do for you, to you, and he will grant you the best answer. Not the answer you may be wanting but God knows the plans he has for your life, just trust him. Speak those things into existence that you are seeking God for. Find scriptures and meditate on them day in not. Allow your heart to align up with your mouth. Stop saying men are dogs. The more you say men are dogs, the more men you will encounter that will treat you the way you expect them to. So, speak out of your mouth the kind of man you want, with the qualities you desire and believe he is coming. Expect the best for yourself. ---------------------------------------------------------------
Jewel, I just wanted to write to say thank you for being you. I
attend several of your workshops when you spoke at the BIG
conference in DC. At the end of one of your workshops I came up
and talked to you and told you that you'd really inspired me.
You asked me what it was that I was supposed to be doing and I
told you for years I'd been called to work with teenage girls
but I just hadn't done it. You told me that I needed to hurry
up and get started because they (the teenage girls) really
needed me. Within 2 days I had written out the whole program.
I started my first session of the Young "Ladies" Programtm
in October and the first set of girls are
going to be graduating from the program next month. The program
focuses on teaching them about integrity, self-respect,
self-image, and high self-esteem. It has really been awesome,
my only regret is that I didn't start sooner. Thanks so much
for your words of encouragement. Respectfully, K. Rice -
Baltimore, MD
--------------------------------------------------------------- Hi, my name is Jacqueline and a
friend of mine share with me one of your motivational uplifts. I'd
like to share my testimony with you. I use to hang out with two
partners - doubt and fear. Five years ago while recuperating from
surgery, God gave me instruction to make a Christian board game. He
told me what to put on the board, design and rules of the game. My
first step away from fear was two years later. God directed me to
go to Las Vegas to a board game trade show. Because doubt was still
hanging around, I needed confirmation and affirmation from God that
it was really Him telling me to go. And because of how He is, He
gave it to me (3 times). Still holding onto doubt and not really
letting go of my friendship with fear I just made my hotel
reservations, but was holding off making my plane reservations - I
looked it up, the fare roundtrip was $244. I then had problems with
my car that required a $400 repair. I told God, there goes my plane
fare, but I believe that you want me to go and You will make a way.
This happened on a Thursday. I serve in the baptismal ministry at
my church and that Sunday a little girl we baptized told me that she
would pray that God blessed me. When Monday arrived I got a message
from a dear friend of mine. Apparently, she had a flight credit of
$244 that had to be used by March 1 and she asked me if I was still
going to Las Vegas. She gave me the credit and made my reservations
for me so that I would not decline. I went to Nevada alone - fear
and doubt were afraid to fly. I was the only black woman at the
trade show - the majority were 20 - 30 something years of age white
males and females were partners. All I saw were dungeon and dragon
types of games. The purpose of the trip: To lean not unto my own
understanding... And to see there is a need for popular Christian
games. The game (called Testimony/Test-a-phony) is now in the
manufacturing mode - all is left is to get the monies. I have faith
that it's there and God will lead me to find it. --------------------------------------------------------------- Dr Taylor: After being married for 20 years and finding out that my husband had been unfaithful and all of his monies were being spent on philandering, I became strong. I had been an in home child care provider for 14+ years, so therefore I was at home during the day, taking care of my children as well as other people's, taking care of the home (cooking, cleaning, nurturing, etc.). My husband started not having time to spend with the family, money started disappearing and the numerous phone calls started from several different women. First it was the "hang up calls," then I started checking the cell phone messages and got Caller ID and started returning calls. After having conversations with several different females that went all the same (They were told my husband and I were separated and in the process of divorcing, etc.), I confronted my husband with my evidence (which was also tape recorded). His initial response was to look me straight in the eyes and lie, "It's not true" he said. I continued to count my days, I prayed and went on a fast, asking GOD to show me what I needed to see. All things came to light. When confronted again, I was told, "If you are not happy, Get out" (put in nicer words than he used). This was said to me numerous times. After looking back on the situation I realize I was told this because of my income and he thought I just couldn't get out. He paid most of the bills (when he felt like it). The house was foreclosed on several times (unbeknown to me) and had even been refinanced (also unbeknown to me). The car was taken several times (for non payment). All of this transpired while he used our families money to wine and dine others, help pay their bills, clothe their children, etc. (YES, I have proof of this.) So, his "Get Out" was all about control, he just knew he had the upper hand. Things started turning around quickly, In December of 2003, I applied for a job outside of my home and was hired in February 2004. In April of 2004 when I was told "If you are not happy, GET OUT," that's just what I did. I packed all of my belongings and my children and moved and never looked back. I just want to inspire all women, When they get Sick and Tired of Being Sick And Tired, seek God, hold fast and be strong. HE will make a way out of no way. I am now working full time, making more money than my husband does. I was able to rent a lovely home, purchase a car for my oldest daughter and have PEACE. I am now looking into purchasing my own home. My children are happier and so am I. My soon to be ex husband now calls 2-3 times a day, seeking forgiveness and whatever else. Since I am a child of God, I forgive him, but I won't forget where I came from and what I went through to get here. I pray for him, but I will NEVER go backwards because God has brought me a mighty long way. I THANK YOU for your words of wisdom and empowerment. I pray that your ministry will reach ALL women who are in need of a word from a "STRONG WOMAN." God Bless You ----------------------------------------------------------------
“Jewel…I want to
say thank you for your newsletter. As I read the one sent today, I
was almost frozen in my spirit from the work you do. I felt that I
was OK and that my life would be OK. I had to take a minute and
thank God for life and today. I had to thank Him for allowing you
to do the work you do. ---------------------------------------------------------------- I wouldn’t say I really feel inadequate, embarrassed or desperate and I definitely don’t settle for anything but I do have moments around Christmas, Thanksgiving, Birthdays, Family gatherings, Valentines Day, I guess really all special occasions, I get depressed and am really tired of being alone or not having anyone to share those things with. ~ S Jewel's response... I completely understand your feelings and frustration. There seems to be no easy answers as to why love makes so many wait. But when love comes, I'm sure you will be rewarded for your patience and willingness not to compromise. Just keep on living your life. Don't put anything on hold. Don't discount yourself or think your value only comes from being in a relationship. The media does such a job on us. The commercials, movies, music and reality shows can make you feel like you're missing something. Buy yourself some candy and flowers for yourself on Valentines. Fall in love with yourself. Having confidence, self-esteem and a joy for life is an attractive appeal that could attract the right person into your life. Self-pity, gloom and desperation are a terrible perfume to wear. read affirmation for single women ---------------------------------------------------------------- Happy Birthday Jewel, and you are a jewel. Please add me to your list. I am a 60 soon to be 61 year old woman who can use as much inspiration as possible. You see Jewel, I have 3 grown children, 2 in prison and 1 on drugs. I am taking care of 3 of my grandchildren on a daily basis and I have the other 3 every weekend. God has been so good to me. I get depressed sometimes, but HE keeps me going. Thank you for your inspiration.
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I am a 51 year old grandmother of two and mother of three grown children. In addition, I am surrounded by nieces, nephews, sisters and one brother. We are a close family. We celebrate life with an annual family reunion and plenty of family gatherings throughout the year. I am the family's webmaster and I also publish a bi-annual newsletter for my family.
Life has been good. I am a former teacher who switch
professionals and entered corporate America at mid-life. This
was a necessary to reduce my stress level. I hope to grow older
and wiser and continue to serve as role model for younger women
to find their way. I surround myself primarily with positive,
upbeat people, at home, work and play. I've been on a mission
to eliminate those people from my life who do not add value.
These people included men in relationships as well as close
friends and family members who were bringing me down with
constant criticism and complaints. I tell you it is the best
way to live! It makes me feel free to be creative and live my
life on purpose. You will love it. ~ Lillie Fortenberry
---------------------------------------------------------------- In response to Jewel's message about coping with change...Marsha B. of Seattle, WA writes... "Oh how true this is! I am losing very close friends right and left and this is so difficult -sometimes I feel like I just want to run and hide, cry my heart out, scream, scream, scream! Besides illness and death, there are all those things you have mentioned. My body is certainly changing which is kind of scary. I feel like I look great for my age - I like the little weight I have put on (because I have always been too skinny), but it's the way I feel that I've got to deal with and work on. The aches and the pains make me frightened that something bad is happening. I could go on and on, but, the bottom line is that I am learning to endure and you're absolutely correct, some of these changes are good! My relationship with my three daughters if ever so close and good, I'm making it a point to get closer to God, I like me better, I don't surround myself with negativity, I don't let bitter people, people who are always complaining, etc., come into my space. I don't deal with men folk who are not coming at me with honesty, respect, good intent and friendship. You said it - "SHIFT HAPPENS" - now deal and stop the 'PITY PARTY'! ---------------------------------------------------------------- I really need to grow in some areas of my life and I need support from other women to know that I am not in this alone. I am 29 years old. I have been married for 10 yrs to a wonderful man. I have 4 beautiful children ages 12, 10, 9, 3. I started my college education late and my career late as well. I still need to finish school and obtain my degree, but I do procrastinate. I am looking for other job opportunities that will give me room to grow, with more incentives. I am also afraid of the change and coming out of my safe little box. I think Women on the Grow would be great for me. Thank you for this web site. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Hi: This is the first time I ever heard about your website. I love to read about women who are inspired, motivated, and energized to move forward. As a woman of color, I have taken major strides to empower my life as well as my family’s life. I am a single woman (early 50s), who is raising two teenage nieces (aged 16 and 17 yrs. old). In addition, as a recovering drug and alcohol individual (8 years), I have turned my life into a very positive experience. Presently, I am working on my master’s degree in management. I have also realized that this is something no one can take away from me despite the stresses, ;discrimination, and challenges I face daily on my job. Also, I am a positive role model for my two nieces. Trust me, they challenged me several times over the past 4 ½ years, but I persevered. I feel so much better about me because it took me over 30 years to finally grow up, (women, if you know what I mean). I’ve been through the ‘ringer’ dealing with relationships with men (younger and older) only to find that they did not want to be committed or not even close. But I persevered. Today, just for today, I am older, single, and smarter. ~ Carol Dayes, Financial Aid Specialist, Rochester, N. Y. ---------------------------------------------------------------- I am an author, a poet and a fifty one year old woman living with AIDS, Hepatitis B and C, and now diabetes and cancer. I wake most days with severe pain throughout my entire body and the doctors don’t know why as of yet. I grew up with low self-esteem and fell victim to drugs, pimps and prostitution. I was a person with no voice I was homeless, addicted to every drug you could imagine. I overcame that and I know I will over come this.
In April 1993, I founded Heaven In View, Inc., and “A Positive Force" (HIV, Inc.) a nonprofit organization providing services for people infected with and affected by HIV/AIDS in all stages of the disease. HIV, Inc.’s mission is to provide education and prevention information and support services to minority and disadvantaged population infected with or affected by HIV or AIDS.
In 1994, I wrote a children's book " My Grandma Has AIDS, Annisha's Story" to help brake the stigma of AIDS with my granddaughter and other children. My Grandma has AIDS, is a fully illustrated fifteen page children's book with colorful detailed pictures that include animals, trees, books, other children and a school. In the book Annisha let children know that I grandma is no different from theirs except I disease. Annisha tells children all the wonderful things she and I grandma do together I like homework, reading, brushing I teeth, cooking, and dressing. Annisha also tells them that she hugs I grandma, kisses I and loves I very much. This book appeals to children because it speaks on a delicate subject from a child’s perspective to other children.
Almost two years ago I had to give up working and traveling as much as I was doing because my T-cells were dropping and my liver began to fail. My quality of life had sunk to an all time low. Then my husband who was my soul mate died in January.
Today I am fighting hard to regain all the devil has tried so hard to take from me. I have always been an energetic, active and well-respected woman. For years I have used my illness as an opportunity to educate others. But I have gotten so tired of teaching people how to die and how to cope with it that I have decided to start a foundation just to teach people how to smell the roses and enjoy life. I teach from experience and I cannot teach people how to live if I am not living. This is why it is so important to me to regain control of my life again. ~ Best regards,Valerie Reeder-Bey ---------------------------------------------------------------- Hello, My name is Abbie and I have received so much encouragement from Jewel Diamond and her CD "Action speaks louder than fear". I plan to buy more CDs and books. I would like to join Women On The Grow, My am 53 yrs and I am single. I have had my share of life's ups and down. I am the Mother of two sons now, one turned 35 yr old on today 9/14 and I have a 25 yr old with me, he is autistic and moderate mental retardation. My 2nd born was killed at the age of 30 yrs old in 1997, a homicide shot in his chest on our front porch. This is a yet unsolved homicide. But GOD knows I have forgave whoever killed him, I have peace in Christ Jesus. My oldest is a graduate of MSU Memphis,TN with a degree in business and acting. My autistic son is a blessing and can do for himself; bath, eat and very creative, Tony who was killed but lives in my heart, was athletic, loved helping the impaired, elderly and children. He just got with the wrong company. He was a good son. I have had my share of painful relationships, false friends and I love the song by the Williams Brothers "I am still here" and Harvey Watkins, Jr. of the Canton Spiritual Singers, "It's In my Heart". I love music, like to help others, as a child growing up I was painfully shy. As I grew older I have has been mistaken for a snob, unfriendly, but in Jewel's tape "Action speak louder than fear", she tells us to not let people scare us or pull us down. Life is better now. I still have my tests, health issues, but God is a healer. I am reaching out for friendship. I am here if anyone needs me. That's all we can do is offer our love and true friendship and let others decide if they want to reach out. I try to help others and lift them up. So please pray with me and for me and God bless all Women On The Grow. ~ Abbie afaulkner@iopener.net ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- If you want your message posted, include in your e-mail to the Self-esteem Dr.: 1) you have my permission to reprint 2) indicate whether you want your name, e-mail, or just your initials, city and state posted with your message...send e-mail to WomenOnTheGrow@aol.com |
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