In 1995, I was growing—becoming aware, stepping into independence, and discovering myself bit by bit. But I carried a fear I couldn’t face: these faux plants my parents had. I was convinced they could bite me. It sounds small now, but to me then, it was real—a symbol of danger in the seemingly harmless.

Fast forward to 2025, after publishing my book, that fear returned—but in a grown-up form. I feared people “biting” me back—judging me, criticizing me, trying to wound me for speaking my truths and showing my vulnerability. The energy was the same, familiar, almost nostalgic. But this time, something remarkable happened: the fear ended quickly. Some “bites” came, but I felt no pain. I realized the power was mine; I was no longer helpless.

God didn’t just bring me back to that space of awareness and independence from 1995—He restored me with strength, courage, and resilience. The child who feared harmless plants is now an adult who faces the world boldly, unshaken by the attempts of others to hurt me.

It’s a full-circle moment: the same energy returned, but stronger, refined, and unbreakable. What once terrified me now exists only to confirm how far I’ve come—and how unstoppable I truly am.