It is said that we are a compilation of those who have gone on before us and the totality of our experiences. While some of us have fond memories of growing up with loving mothers and grandmothers, there are many who don't have such warm and fuzzy life stories.

For some, the consequences of poor decisions, unstable environments, and unfortunate situations have resulted in void and brokenness—mentally, emotionally and/or physically. The thought of such reminds me of a quote by John Wooden, the renowned NCAA basketball player and coach, “Things turn out best for the people who make the best of the way things turn out.”

The Bible puts it this way, “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28

Regardless of your family make-up and anything you've been through, thank God that you are here because He still has a great plan for you! He has positioned you to be an awesome testimony of His love and grace.

As most of you know, my mother died on my 17th birthday. Though I understand that my mother’s death was in God’s will, I often wondered, "why did it have to happen on my birthday? " After all, there are 364 other days in the year. As I grew up, God’s only response was, "use this sorrow and grief as an opportunity to emulate the qualities and characteristics possessed by your mother".

Today, my birthday and the date of my mother’s passing is marked as a time to celebrate Faith, Family, and Fun. I utilize her legacy as an opportunity to propel me towards becoming a better person—wife, mother, sister, aunt, and friend.

Remember this, your life is not defined by what happened to you, but how you respond to what happened to you. Seek God’s perspective on how you can influence your family by walking in His ways.

Challenge:

• Consider honorable qualities of women you know (family, friends, acquaintances)
• Develop a theme that can be used as a legacy you can measure up to
• Aim to walk in your greatest potential in Christ Jesus

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