Girls who have experienced trauma and abuse as children often struggle to find purpose, meaning, and joy in their lives. For some, though, we are able to overcome the hurdles and challenges that are the result of trauma and abuse. We become well-educated, are experts in our careers, and have found success while climbing the corporate ladder. We put on a brave face each day while keeping our private lives out of view. Few know our struggle to emotionally find our way through the world. The abuse and trauma we have experienced as young girls and even in our adult lives keeps us from knowing who we really are and how to actually embrace all life is.  We are resilient as we raise our families and put each foot forward every day. We bounce back with each setback and push forward as we have throughout our lives.

Now at the age of 60 something, I am discovering who I am. My Christian faith is the foundation of all I do, and the call to redemptive service is my purpose. I embrace belonging, inclusion, diversity, and differing perspectives. I enjoy learning from and supporting others. I love to hike, walk, write, research, and reflect. I am worthy; I am valued. I am resilient. I found a path forward to earn four college degrees, including my doctorate, and have had successful careers as a musician, a special education professional, and now as an associate professor. I have raised two amazing daughters who now have growing families of their own and are leading healthy lives.  I am now on the better side of a lifelong journey to find self-love and healing.

Continue to explore my webpages to hear more of my story and the blessings and challenges I have had; why I do what I do; and how I found my way.