I Rise

Rising Like the Phoenix

I am working on my first book, enrolling in school, and applying for housing. All at once. It’s a lot, but when I say it, I do it. I don’t talk about change anymore — I move.

I am starting the gym, working on myself mentally and physically and becoming a better version of myself. The gym is more than weights. It’s discipline. It’s me proving to myself that I can show up when I’m tired, that I can push when it hurts, that I can keep promises to myself. Mentally, I’m doing the work too. Prayer, reading, boundaries, no more distractions. Physically and mentally, I’m rebuilding.

I am encouraged to do better and rise from the ashes like the phoenix to do better for myself. I know what ashes look like. I lived in them. Divorce, brokenness, single-parent home, starting over with nothing but faith. But ashes are not the end of the story. They’re the beginning of the rise. Every step I take now — the book, school, housing, the gym — is me coming out of that fire different. Stronger. Clearer.

I am proud of myself for always doing something to achieve my goals and putting God first with everything. That’s the real difference this time. It’s not just hustle. It’s not just survival. It’s God first. I pray before I write. I pray before class. I pray before I sign housing papers. I pray before I lift. Because I know without Him, I’m just moving in circles. With Him, I’m moving with purpose.

This season is mine. First book. School. Housing. Mind and body under discipline. All with God leading. When I say it, I do it — because He’s the One giving me strength to do it. I’m not who I was. I’m rising, and I’m not looking back.