Greetings Sisters,
I have just finished reading the book, "Mighty Be Our Powers, How Sisterhood, Prayer, and Sex Change a Nation at War" and the documentary, "Pray the Devil Back to Hell" the story of Leymah Gbowee and her Liberian Sisters. These women have become my sheroes. Their faith, actions and courage are amazing and they have become role models for women around the world. They endured through hardships I can't even imagine, saw and experienced death all around them, they were victims of violence that no woman or girl should have to experience, yet they never lost their faith. When they came together to demand peace, they knew they couldn't do it alone and enlisted their Muslim sisters. They put their differences in faith aside and worked together to save their families and their country.
I believe that when women come together, they can become peace builders and build bridges of peace around the world. Our Liberian sisters have proved that when they used their voices for peace in their country. This is why I encourage all women and girls to find their voice and use it to make a difference in their community and our world.
I use my voice to bring awareness and educate others about the issue of Human Trafficking. How do you use your voice? Leymah Gbowee says in her story that, "Sometimes, the biggest changes in your life begin in moments you barely notice while they're taking place." I believe that is true and that God has plans for women who answer his call and do all things through him who gives us strength.
I challenge you at this moment as you read my thoughts that this may be the moment where a big change will begin in your life and you will stand up for the oppression of women and girls in the United States and around the world. Use your voice for women's health issues, education for girls, economic empowerment, ending violence against women - whatever the issue might be.
As women find their voice in this world and as we come and stand together, we will be the peace builders around the world and one day all of us may experience peace and use our voices for the nicer things in life, like singing and laughter.
I encourage you to read Leymah's story and see the documentary.
Until we connect again, let us remember that we are woman, destined for God's purpose.
Blessings,
Barbara
