Editor’s Corner: Women: It’s time to love yourself

Joshua 1:19 says “Be Strong and Courageous. Do not be afraid; for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

This is a simple verse, yet it is often the hardest for women to grasp. Many of us live our lives in the shadow... unable to see the sunlight through the fog. And, unfortunately that fog is usually created by other women. Most of us are scared and do not have the self-confidence to stand up to the bully. I’ve been there and I understand. I was never as smart or as pretty or as skinny or as rich as the other woman...

I spent more than 30 years standing up for those less fortunate; but never had the confidence to stand up for myself.

Then something happened in July 2020. I contracted COVID-19 and was admitted to the hospital. As I was lying in the ICU room fighting for my life, I finally understood I was God’s child and all the bullies in the world had no control over my life.

Please listen to a woman who understands. I am not what people think, but I will forever be what God has ordained me to be.

It is time, my fellow women, to be the heroines of our own lives. No matter what we have been through or what trials lie ahead... we were made in God’s own image and He loves us. That knowledge gives us power... power to overcome....power to forgive and power to love - to love each other and ourselves.

Each of you are more beautiful and stronger than you have ever guessed. This world is yours to conquer. As the movie says “No one puts Baby in the corner.” Do not allow others to hold you back. Rejoice in the love of God and know in your heart, there is nothing you can not overcome... nothing you can not accomplish with His help.

Proverbs 31:30 reminds us “Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.”

You are to be praised! Don’t ever let anyone put you in the corner. Don’t give up on your dreams. This world needs you. Be an example. Spread your wings and your love. And never forget to “Do You and Be You!”

This week marks the 104th anniversary of the adoption of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution giving women the right to vote. Aug. 26 is Women’s Equality Day! Celebrate! We’ve come a long way baby and our future looks bright. But please remember the fight for true equality truly comes from serving the Lord and loving yourself!

Sandra Brand is the editor of the NEA Town Courier and The Osceola Times. She may be reached by phone at 870-763-4461 or 870-563-2615 or by email at brand@osceolatimes.com.