From Freedom To Flourish

When I began to think of a title for this edition of SitiGirl Midwest, I took an introspective look at my life for the last 24 months. When I relocated back to my hometown in in July of 2024, I was broken, ashamed and lost. I was broken by life, ashamed that I was broken and lost because I had no idea how to start again. I wasn't even sure I had the will to start again. To believe and dream again but there is hope even in your wilderness season. This season is not meant to break you but to establish you. Some things do have to die off in order for you to live fruitfully and abundantly. Every loss can be looked at as a divine rest into your purpose.

After giving some much of myself to others it was time to give to myself and I was unsure of what that looked like. I was scared of what it would mean to truly live for myself. Trauma often presents itself in overachievement and over productivity just to feel worthy. To feel worthy enough to be chosen. July 2024 marked a time for me that I was no longer waiting to be chosen. I would learn to choose myself; intentionally and unapologetically. I wasn't quite sure what that meant yet but I had to try. The only thing I knew was I fought to hard to survive and survivors don't quit. They don't lay down and take defeat. They are like a phoenix forged in fired; destined to rise again.

In July 2024, I chose to show up for Mariette and fiercely love every version of her from the little girl to the grown woman. I chose to protect her peace, prioritize her needs and wants and, honor her right to say no without guilt to those things that no longer serve a purpose in the life she wanted to create for herself. I allowed space for her to be soft and vulnerable without judgement. Not placing rigid timelines on what it means to heal. This time has been her sacred place.

So in July 2026, Mariette has found her "Freedom to Flourish." This freedom is not based on anyone else's standards or expectations but with a clear vision of who she was and who she is becoming. The truth is we are all becoming something. What you become is entirely up to you. I have found my voice again. I have found my joy, peace and song again. I see with clarity and precision. Whatever is not aligned with the pursuit of my purpose is cutoff; no questions asked. I do not ask for permission or apologize for my existence. I live each day with gratitude and thanksgiving in my heart anchored by my faith in my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He showed up for me with I was in the pit of despair. He bandaged my wounds, cleaned me up, showed me my worth and restored me to walk in the authority He gave me.

This journey has not been perfect but it has been worth it because I am worth it. Have I arrived yet? Absolutely not! But each day I embrace the new mercies God gives me each morning. Let this encourage you. No matter what state you are in, each day you open your eyes is a chance for you to begin again and know that you are your greatest investment. Choose wisely.

xoxo Mariette