Soul 42: Micheii

How did family shape your perception of strength?When I think of the word strength, the first thing that comes to mind is my family. Particularly my mom and my bachan (grandma). My bachan spent her high school years in a Japanese internment camp during World War II. After the war and her release, she endured more discrimination and the only job she was able to maintain was working as a housekeeper for a wealthy white family. Since then, she has built her life up and raised four strong children who all went on to start businesses, become doctors, and go to graduate school. I don't think her kids would be in the same position if they hadn't been raised by such an admirable person who pushed them to value their education- because she was not afforded those same privileges in her childhood/young adulthood.

What keeps you strong in times of trial? My older sister, Tiana. As an adult I try to find other outlets so I'm not 100% leaning on Tiana- I'll talk to close friends, my partner, journal, spend time with myself. But since literally day one Tiana has looked after me and has supported me. Over the years she's written to me in times of need, and sometimes I'll just reread the letters she's given me and they make me feel better. She makes me feel valued and loved, which always gives me a feeling of strength!

Who is a female role model in your life and why? My mom. She is the hardest worker I know and I have not once heard her complain. She recently retired, but her entire career was dedicated to creating programs that help victims and survivors of sexual assault. She worked for a non-profit organization that provided services for those who have been sexually abused, these services in many cases, saved lives. In times of crisis, my mom always keeps a level head and thinks about solutions. She is calm, creative, and incredibly loving. I will always look up to my mom as a strong role model.

What advice would you give to the next generation of strong women? In 1976, historian Laurel Thatchel Ulrich wrote that "well behaved women seldom make history". Our society sets expectations on women, and I think in order to be a strong women, you have to break those rules to a certain extent (especially because society often equates femininity to weakness, so by being a strong women, you're already breaking the rules!). I suggest the next generation to challenge the system and lean on other women along the way - it's good to question the expectations from time to time, because chances are, they were created by someone who didn't have you in mind.

Micheii’s Intentional Act of Kindness

How did you use the $100? I gave the money to a close friend I met during makeup school years ago. I had plans to donate the money in various ways, but the day after I received the $100, I spent the night at a close friend's apartment. She cooked a beautiful dinner for me and when we were chatting she mentioned how she is living paycheck to paycheck, and how stressful it is. A little backstory - She recently moved out of her parents place to her own apartment. A week after she moved out, she lost her esthetician job at a spa. She was able to get a new job, but she lost all of her clients due to a non-compete contract. Now she has to rebuild her clientele in order to make any money. It felt serendipitous to have the $100 in my purse as she was telling me her financial burdens.

What was the 'Intentional Act of Kindness' process like for you? I loved it! Especially since I gave the money to a close friend, it felt so good to see how it affected her. It was a good reminder that everything is relative, currently, $100 doesn't feel significant to me personally, but it brought tears to my friend's eyes and really impacted her day. It was a true gift to be able to help out someone so important to me.

Soul 41: Liz

What does "being strong" mean to you? At this point in my life, "being strong" correlates to endurance. Remaining in the Lord, staying the course regardless of culture, environment, challenges, setbacks, discouragement and loneliness.

How did family shape your perception of strength? Like most kids, when I was young, I continually had new ideas of what I wanted to be when I grew up. When a new idea came to mind, I'd share it with my dad. I wanted to be a teacher, a valet, a Nascar driver, a nurse, an attorney, a judge, a baker, a mom, a professional basketball player ... the list went on and on. Each time I presented a new idea, my dad responded the same: We need Christian women in ____________(fill in the blank). So my conclusion was not that I could do anything I wanted but rather that Christ-in-me was critical in whatever I did. Without lecturing, my dad helped me to see that strength comes by following Jesus in all I do.

What keeps you strong in times of trial? In my hardest years of trial -- parenting three young children, separated from extended family, limited supports, relational tensions, managing extreme behaviors, exhaustion and depression -- I found renewal by pulling away by myself to refresh. In this period of my life, it was usually 4 hours early Saturday morning. Mark 6:31 says, "Come with me by yourself to a quiet place and get some rest." And my favorite verse is Matthew 11:28-31 "Come to me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." Because my strength is in the Lord, apart from him and get tired, weary, overwhelmed and depressed. So these times of refreshing have been critical.

Liz’s Intentional Act of Kindness

How did you use the $100? I sent $100 in the mail to my friend who just discovered she's pregnant with a son with Down syndrome. Having a son with Down syndrome and KNOWING how beautiful life is with DS, I was celebrating while her heart grieves. I understand her response to the unknown. It's familiar. And I know without a doubt, she will feel differently when she meets her son! I decided to send her $100 for a massage -- it's so important that she take care of herself emotionally and physically through her pregnancy. And they are a very hard working family (in ministry) making ends meets with very little margin. I believe wholeheartedly this will bless her as they continue to process this gift they are being given -- a son who needs two parents who love him like crazy.

What was the 'Intentional Act of Kindness' process like for you? I had several individuals come to mind -- but my heart was compelled to encourage my grieving friend who had just received a DS diagnosis. My prayer is she will soon find delight in the wonder growing inside her and feel surrounded by support through this journey. It's just the beginning of an amazing life.

Soul 40: Farris

How have your trials made you stronger? A huge trial for me was overcoming my social anxiety at a young age. I remember being very shy through my mid teenage years, which often held me back from engaging in certain social and extracurricular activities. Despite this, I was still heavily involved in competitive sports. This ranged from gymnastics to soccer to competitive jump rope. I still clearly remember having the terrifying realization that in order to raise the money needed to travel to Cape Town with Team USA (jump rope), I would have to burst out of my safety bubble to establish and lead jump rope classes. This was a scary process for me, but through that experience I gained so much confidence in expressing myself. I never would have realized how personally fulfilled I am through sharing my love for this sport, supporting children’s gross motor development and encouraging others to reach their potential. And now, 15 years later I am a pediatric physical therapist doing just that!

Who is a female role model in your life and why? My grandma is, and always has been a strong female role model in my life. She earned her Bachelor’s in Psychology in 1959, and decided to pause her academic pursuits to raise a family (of 4 kids) with her husband. During that time, she and my grandfather opened their home to adopt a local child whose parents struggled with alcohol addiction. One of my grandma’s children also struggled and eventually overcame substance addiction, which lit a fire in her to write a book to share her experiences in the hopes of helping other families of troubled teens. My grandma went on to pursue her Master’s in Family Studies and became a licensed mental health counselor in her early 40’s. This amazing woman has since owned and operated her private practice for over 30 years! My grandma’s passion for helping at-risk populations, using her personal trials to help others overcome theirs and her constant encouragement to pursue higher education have been large driving factors in my decision to pursue my Doctorate in Physical Therapy. Without her ambitious example, and support before and during PT school, I wouldn’t be where I am today. She continues to be the strong glue our family and extended family revolves around. It has been such a blessing to have my grandma as a strong female role model through all life’s stages.

What’s one thing someone could do today to make them stronger? Carve out intentional time for self-reflection! I have found journaling and writing letters to myself to be very therapeutic, as I often write down what I won’t say aloud. I challenge you to find the strengths buried within your perceived weaknesses. For example, being an empath can be overwhelming at times. I often struggle with setting personal boundaries for how much I allow myself to carry those around me. However, through reflection I realize my empathy has helped me build strong rapport with the patients and families I work with and enabled a level of closeness with friends and family that I couldn’t live without. Many of us have more strength than we allow ourselves to realize!

Farris’s Intentional Act of Kindness

How did you use the $100? My aunt and uncle have been going through difficult times lately, and were recently granted custody of my cousin's baby when he went missing after falling back into drug addiction. She and her husband were nearing retirement, but found themselves beginning the unexpected journey of parenthood again in their 60's, and needing to continue to work to cover expenses. I decided to surprise them with clothing and toys for her upcoming birthday, as they have been struggling to make ends meet.

My aunt and uncle are wonderful, wonderful people. They have loved this little girl as their own, and graciously accepted this unexpected role. I immensely admire their strength, grit and generosity. Hardship can be isolating, and I felt this gesture would be a reminder of the community of support around them.

What was the 'Intentional Act of Kindness' process like for you? I really appreciate how this process challenged, and continues to challenge me to look into the needs of my community. Although it was more difficult than I thought to decide on a single act!

Soul 39: Taylor

What keeps you strong in times of trial? I have had a close group of friends that originated in 4th grade and have continued to accumulate over the years. This group is my go to group of women in times of trial who always know how to best support me whether that means gathering for a weekend of fun or telling me what I need to hear when I need to hear it.

Who is a female role model in your life and why? My female role model is Julia Hjelte. She is vulnerable and strong and continues to grow as a person. Not many people continuously seek out ways to grow emotionally and intellectually the way Julia does. She has helped me in many ways recognize areas I need to grow in while always lifting me up and finding the good in me and everyone around her. She’s simply the best!

How do you encourage other women to be strong? I try to encourage others to be strong by showing them it is okay to put themselves first and sometimes that is what is needed to be strong for others.

Taylor’s Intentional Act of Kindness

How did you use the $100? I used the $100 to gift my friends a drink at dinner to celebrate our friendship and celebrate everyone being together.

What was the 'Intentional Act of Kindness' process like for you? Honestly, it was challenging to decide the best way to use the money. I wanted to make it perfect and for the best use. I am glad I chose to use it on my closest friends and share the love and joy of this project with others.

Soul 38: Jessi

How have your trials made you stronger? I moved to Japan when I was 12 and had to make new friends during a very vulnerable time of adolescent life. To make matters worse, I entered a school where most kids had been together since kindergarten. I soon realized my classmates had no interest in having me join their cliques. I had to adapt, find ways to express myself and gain confidence in ways I never had to in my comfortable life in England. I joined the basketball team, even though I had almost no experience, and made friends by approaching people from myself. The outgoing-ness of it all felt foreign to me at the time but with every small win came confidence and strength to keep doing more.

What’s one thing someone could do today to make them stronger? Ask for help. I’ve learned that not everything is meant to be done on your own. Asking for help allows you to focus on things you need to do or are better at. Asking for help allows others to feel strong by being helpful. It’s almost never a burden to someone being asked.

When has your strength been personally challenged and how did you respond? Becoming a mom. I have never been the type to ask for help and always want to get things done myself whenever I can. Becoming a mom challenged my ability to do everything. I needed help and at times I felt weak for not being able to take care of things on my own. It took a few months of raw emotions to realize that being strong isn’t about doing things all on my own, that it was about being vulnerable to ask for help.

Jessi’s Intentional Act of Kindness

How did you use the $100? I gave the $100 to an acquaintance in Poland who is currently housing refugees from Ukraine in her home. The war in Ukraine is heartbreaking. All war is heartbreaking but the war in Ukraine felt closer to home (half my family lives in the UK). With social media, I feel more connected to what is going on and it hurt me to learn about people leaving their homes, unsure if they could return. Many with young kids who are having to experience this hardship during a period of growth. I felt this donation was a small way of lending a hand.

What was the 'Intentional Act of Kindness' process like for you? I could think of many ways to give the $100 but it wasn’t as easy to make it personal. I wanted to make sure it was used directly to help someone. It was harder than I thought to find a meaningful and personal cause to give to that didn’t feel awkward. I thought about giving to a random stranger who looked like they could use the money but that also didn’t feel right. The process was eye opening for me to realize that we live in such a physically disconnected world. Partly due to the pandemic but partly just how our lives have shifted more online. I don’t walk outside of my own neighborhood enough to see how people are, how the world is moving. It’s easy to get caught up in your own world but there is a lot more “out there”. This process has made me want to be more connected with my community and find ways to give back more.

Soul 37: Anna

How does family shape your perception of strength? I'm Ukrainian--my heritage and family's experiences greatly influenced my perception of strength. Often times I need to remind myself that my family members experienced greater obstacles than I. I can overcome whatever the world throws at me. For example, one set of grandparents are survivors of the Ukrainian genocide when Russian communists falsely created a famine. Other family members were disowned by their parents for accepting the Christian faith, while others sat in prison. My own parents saw their fair share of discrimination as accent-speaking immigrants in the US. And yet, did that sway the confidence or joy of those family members? Surprisingly...no. Strength is more than your circumstances.

What keeps you strong in times of trial? Easy. I'm not the first. I'm the last. I'm not alone. It's a silly example, but before my first child, a friend told me in those first few months--I will go crazy. I will lose it at some point in time. However, to remember, I'm not the only mother in the world at that point in time exhausted and upset. That there were so many women before me who had it worst and who will experience the same as me in the future. And we all got through it.

How can you be strong and vulnerable? I used to be a competitive runner. I know that my muscles only increased when I broke them down. It wasn't a one-time event either. Every single day. I pushed myself. I broke. I came back stronger. In life, we grow when we share the piece of us that is soft. I do this with my work colleagues, I do this with my church family, with my closest friends. I share my "uncomfortable", painful, and failure moments. It is in these where I grow, where my community encourages me, rallies around me, where I do the same--and I truly come out stronger.

Anna’s Intentional Act of Kindness

How did you use the $100? Donated to #Bake4Ukraine. This is an active organization in the suburbs of Kyiv, Ukraine. They provide bread to those in need, for free, during the active Russian invasion.

I had all of these ideas for my $100... And then Russia invaded Ukraine. Not only did Russia invade Ukraine, it invaded, bombed, started to destroy my hometown of Kyiv. My mind tried to process the chaos. I'm still clawing on to any whim of control. Donating to Ukrainian needs is that sliver of control in my life.

My uncle is a country manager of a bread company. He also started a café that employs adults with Down Syndrome and Autism. My uncle lives right outside of Kyiv. He and his family decided to stay and self fund the production of bread so that people had food.

As a family, they put on their bullet proof vests, and provided much needed sustenance to the elderly, disabled, and local fire and police departments. Ingredients have been trucked in from Western Europe. Former marketing managers now operate various bread machines. Everyone is doing their part.

This $100. It did its part too.

What was the 'Intentional Act of Kindness' process like for you? Not what I expected!!! The war truly changed everything for me. I feel guilty every single day for the freedom I have while my people suffer. I am so thankful for it and for 100 Souls Strong for helping me feel like I can make a difference.

Soul 36: Rachel

How does your culture shape your perception of strength? I believe culture has focused so much on "self care" and finding strength within yourself. Culture has had such an individualistic view of strength and encouraging solitude in order to regain strength and peace. While there is some truth to that and some time of reflection is necessary - isolation is not the key to strength. We are strong when we link arms, love our brothers and sisters, and build a team around us that love and encourage us.

Who is a female role model in your life and why? My mom is my biggest role model. I still remember her encouraging me to tithe to the church on money I made from picking up leaves in the yard. At a young age, she taught me how to give and why it's important. She is still the most giving, kind, and humble individual I know. She took some time with her husband and lived in a little RV so they could help with disaster relief organizations. They have never been rich in possession but they are the richest people I know.

What’s one thing someone could do today to make them stronger? Giving is one of the best ways we can strengthen ourselves. Giving to someone else bonds you to another person so you strengthen your relationships and friendships - and I believe we aren't just strong on our own. We are strong because of our support systems - our family, our friends, our faith. Strength is never a one man band - it's an orchestra.

Rachel’s Intentional Act of Kindness

How did you use the $100? I felt pretty strongly for a few days to give my $100 to my worship pastor and his wife. I knew they had been dealing with a lot lately, I just wasn't aware of the full scope of things. After speaking with the wife more I found out they had been sick for quite some time, had overwhelming medical bills, and she had felt discouraged. I knew right away I was to bless them with this money. It was amazing to be able to bless such an important part of our body of Christ here in Colorado Springs. They are a crucial part to our church family and it was an incredible blessing to extend my appreciation for them in that way. She was so grateful. Giving really brings people together in a special way.

By giving this money to them it opened up conversation to the extent of the hardships they have been facing. I am usually someone who loves to give to the poor - more so people who are hungry and living on the streets - so it was a bit of a stretch for me to give to someone who I felt was very blessed - and they are. But I know God used this to bring us even more into our church family and build our relationship with our leaders. They give out so much spiritually and I think we overlook sometimes how much our church leaders need. We can assume they have people they confide in or they are "good." But if everyone is thinking that then they can get overlooked.

What was the 'Intentional Act of Kindness' process like for you? It helped me to see the needs in the people I'm closer to - even though they may not need a roof over their head or food on their table - we have a role to encourage and build up our neighbors. The word my husband and I are living by this year is hospitality - and more so in our church body. This felt like a stepping stone for us to step into this new role God has us in for this season. We are still passionate about giving to the poor and serving in Haiti - but I am glad the Lord has planted us in such an amazing church family and is teaching us how to serve in our home.

Soul 35: Joanna

What’s one thing someone could do today to make them stronger? One thing someone could do today to make them stronger is set a goal. Big or small, goals help motivate us and push us to grow! Working towards a goal is a healthy challenge that helps us gain strength and confidence within ourselves. Not to mention, life would be pretty boring if we all stayed the same!

When has your strength been personally challenged and how did you respond? My strength has been personally challenged since becoming a mother. The mental and emotional stresses of becoming new mom are some of the most difficult I’ve had to overcome in my life. Having another person depend on me for everything is a lot of pressure and something I quickly had to embrace. I have to constantly remind myself to stay in the moment and not let tomorrow’s to do list weigh on me when I feel overwhelmed by motherhood’s endless responsibilities. I've also learned through my motherhood journey that it's ok to ask for help because raising a child sure does take a village!

What keeps you strong in times of trial? In times of trial, my faith and my family keep me strong. Leaning on my husband and family members for support gives me confidence to make tough decisions and encouragement to believe in my own potential. My faith brings me peace and comfort when I feel weak or worried.

Joanna’s Intentional Act of Kindness

How did you use the $100? I used the money to help buy a family’s groceries at Costco over the holidays. I felt like it was a good way to bless someone in a practical way.

What was the 'Intentional Act of Kindness' process like for you? I really enjoyed the process and had fun brainstorming ways I could use the money to spread kindness. Especially during the holidays when people may be experiencing extra financial hardship, the grocery idea came to mind. If buying those groceries was one less thing that family had to worry about, I’m happy I could be the one to to lift that weight off their shoulders.

Soul 34: Abi

How does family shape your perception of strength? My family is the foundation and definition of strength for me. Both of my parents emigrated from the Philippines, and both worked extremely hard to survive, and build a life and family together here in the States. My dad always worked in physical labor - from being a farmer in the mango fields in the Philippines to the dangerous king crab seas in Alaska. My mom was a true born hustler, working as a pianist to a swim instructor at the Naval Base in the Philippines to pushing carts in the snow at Sam’s Club as her first job in the States, to 20 years as a lab technician, now she’s a realtor and caretaker. She can’t be stopped! My dad lived a fulfilled life and passed away at 95. Both hugely shaped my perception of strength (mentally, spiritually, relationally, physically) from a very early age.

How can you be strong and vulnerable? One of the most memorable comments I received in therapy was, “[It’s okay to be sad and happy simultaneously, two emotions can exist. One is not better than the other. You don’t have to feel or choose between your emotions, it’s okay to feel both.]” That’s how I initially felt reading the question, when in actuality, it takes real strength to be vulnerable. To bring your whole self into consideration, that is being strong. It feels one in the same.

How do you encourage other women to be strong? I will always be your biggest cheerleader (in varsity softball, I was always voted Most Spirited), so when you need encouragement to be strong, my method is to remind you about all of the millions of times I know you’ve been strong. My goal is to be your rear view mirror - when you forget, can’t see, or need a reminder about how kick ass you are, I’ll be ready to remind you. :) I’m that girl friend. Sometimes it can even turn into a motivational speech because I will always see the best in someone and genuinely believe it. To be frank, I believe I can do this better for others than for myself. Another memorable question I received in therapy was, “if you were talking to your girl friend right now and she told you everything you just told me, what would you tell her? How would you respond?” The advice is to talk to yourself the way you would talk to your best girl friend. Be kind to yourself.

Abi’s Intentional Act of Kindness

How did you use the $100? For 1 week, we only ate and shopped at local brown and Black businesses. "All money in", the Great Nipsey Hussle once said. It's important to me to invest in and bring money back into the community.

What was the 'Intentional Act of Kindness' process like for you? It was initially hard because, how can you choose? $100 with today's inflation can seem so little, but in reality, is so meaningful for so many people. The hardest part was not having enough $ to bless more folks with!

Soul 33: Lisa

What does "being strong" mean to you? Over the years the definition of “strong” has changed. When I was young and an athlete, strong meant winning and being in the best shape to compete. College and beyond, being strong took on a different meaning. After graduating from UCLA, I wanted to build my resume and being strong was all about creating new adventures like traveling Europe with girlfriends and working in the White House away from family and friends. Strength was also facing fears. Throughout my life, I was always car sick and airplane sick. I would throw up on long roadtrips and always in an airplane. When I sat down and buckled my seatbelt on an airplane, the next thing I did was find the white bags hidden in the pouch in front of the seat in case it was turbulent. I decided that I must be strong and conquer my fear, so I signed up to get my private pilot’s license. I was one of just a few females in the program. I spent almost a year between ground school and then hours needed in the air to receive my pilot’s license. When I was flying an airplane, I did not get sick. Understanding how the airplane actually gained flight brought me a sense of confidence, and for the last 35 years, I have never gotten sick on a commercial flight again. Hallelujah!!

Being strong changed once again when I had three beautiful children. My strength went back to a physical strength and most days, enduring sleep deprivation, while at the same time, enjoying a houseful of energetic, fun and precious kids. Once my children entered kindergarten, my mindset changed. Being blessed with raising children was now not about me. It was not about my physical strength or adventures I wanted to put on my resume. These three lives were now my focus, and I quickly had to decide where I would draw my strength from. I was a solid Believer in Jesus Christ, but that was not enough. I needed to know “who” I was in Christ so I could emulate the characteristics of God to my children. As I searched the Scriptures and memorized various passages, it was evident that real strength was about sacrifice. Sacrifice is “the act of giving up something that you want to keep, in order to help someone.” My children would be my legacy. I wanted to pour everything into them and create a standard of Truth that would be their guiding light. The standard of Truth my husband and I chose was the Word of God. As we grew as a family, we treasured time together. In our home we created special events each week and month from Friday Night Movie NIghts with pizza to incredible traditions for each holiday. We celebrated all achievements and came together during failures. Our strength was and continues to be rooted in the Lord.

To me, a strong woman is defined as someone filled with love, devoted to family, sacrificial in her actions, and never wavering in her standard of Truth.

How does family shape your perception of strength? “Family” is my strength! I grew up in a Christ-centered home with parents who were committed to one another through thick and thin. When my Dad passed away a few years ago, my parents had been married almost 65 years. Their marriage is part of my family legacy of longevity and staying true to promises made. I remember when I was little and my parents were arguing about something really petty. My Mom would not let it go, so my Dad simply backed off, told her he loved her and that was that. Later in the evening, I asked my Dad why he let her “win” and did not give his side of the situation. He said, “My wife is more important than any argument. We are a family and I don’t need to be right!” This was the beginning of my understanding of what strength looked like in a family, how it needed to be displayed and why it was necessary for the family unit. Strength is knowing you may be correct, but nobody in the family needs to know! Strength is LOVE!

Being a Mom has and will continue to be the greatest treasure in my life. When my first child was born, I knew the process of deciding what my standard of Truth would be was imminent. I had to know who I was and what kind of Mom I wanted to be to my child. As with all young Mom’s, I started with analyzing the strengths of my childhood family -- the values instilled, the precious moments that are forever etched in my heart, the significant relationships and the way conflict was handled. All of these issues swirled in my brain -- I wanted my family to be strong and courageous, I wanted us to serve others well, but most important, I wanted my family to LOVE! A family is strong when they are centered on LOVE. I am strong when I am rooted in love and know how to give it as well as receive it.

About four years ago, I went through a difficult situation. My husband and three grown children gathered around me like warriors. Together we were strong. My family was my strength!

What advice would you give to the next generation of strong women? Be ready for battle! Be warriors for your family. Be an advocate for someone who needs a voice and stand firm in "who" you are, not "what" you have mastered. In the Book of Ephesians, Chapter 6, verses 10-18, the apostle Paul tells us how to get ready for battle. Preparation is everything because difficulty will come our way. Paul vividly describes in detail, what it means to armor up with the various pieces of equipment necessary to win in battle. We need our helmet of Salvation to understand who we are; the breastplate of Righteousness to know who we belong to; the belt of Truth around our waist to keep us stable; for protection, we will have our great shield of Faith which protects us in situations where we do not understand or cannot see the outcome; Paul talks about the sharp sword we will boldly have pointed outwardly in our hand which is the Word of God, the Bible; and on our feet will be shoes of peace. Take each one of these areas and ponder their significance. Take a personal inventory of which part of the armor you understand and is healthy, and which section of your battle preparation is weak and an area where a negative foothold can begin. In our daily lives, we must be marked by love, make solid decisions and weigh the associated consequences, focus our minds on what is healthy, and not read and participate in hurtful dialogue. It is important to know that we were created by God, trust in the plans He has for us, be the giver of peace to others with encouraging and uplifting words, and finally, know the Bible. Invest and read the words from a God who LOVES you , knows your name, and is the same yesterday, today and forever.

When I was a young Mama of three babies, I read a life changing book called “Watchmen on the Walls.” It was a small book about praying for specific qualities such as kindness, gentleness, forgiveness, wisdom and more over your children. Reading through the pages, I found myself moved as it described a guard standing on the wall of a city ready to protect the people inside. The watchman was fervent in being attentive to his surroundings with an understanding of what may come upon his city and hurt the people inside. He stood there night after night ready for battle! As a Mom, I wanted and needed to be that protector for my children, praying earnestly for each one of them every day, knowing what or who could harm them and sacrificing time to battle for their souls. The “battle” is incredible and worth the minutes, days and years it takes to teach the qualities of being a warrior, a warrior for God.

Lisa’s Intentional Act of Kindness

How did you use the $100? When I received the $100 and was instructed to bless someone, I was super excited. As I prayed about it, I wanted to have my eyes opened to how God wanted me to use it. One afternoon, I came out of a store in a small strip mall area. I saw a lady rearranging some things in the back end of her car. But what caught my attention was the beautiful cat that reclined on the front dash of the car. It was warm out and the cat was definitely enjoying the sun. Being an animal lover, I asked the woman if her cat liked the car (thinkinging about my own furry cat who would be completely freaked out!). She came around the side of the car from where she was packing and said, "He does, but right now he has to." I didn't understand and followed up by asking her if she was traveling through the area. She kindly shared that they were "homeless" and in between places to live. She explained that the cat loved her and would go anywhere she went, but he enjoyed when they had the money for a hotel room every now and then so he could run around. I asked her how much a hotel room was. The woman, with sweet eyes, said that she could find them for $50/night. I told her to wait a minute. I kept the $100 in my car glove box. As I went to get the money, I prayed she would receive the gift. I came back and said I would like to give her money for two nights in a motel for her and her cat. She was speechless with tears running down her face. No words needed to be spoken because I could physically see how blessed she was with the money. The cat attracted me to the car, but the Lord wanted to bless this woman. After our time, I smiled and thanked God that he used an unassuming cat to draw me into His plan.

What was the 'Intentional Act of Kindness' process like for you? This "Intentional Act of Kindness" process was a beautiful reminder that we must continually look for how we can bless others. I think having the $100 physically with me and designated for someone else in need, encouraged me to be on the lookout. Yesterday, I had just finished my grocery shopping and was unloading my bags into the car when a man approached me. He asked if I had a few dollars to give him. I looked to see if I had any cash and I did not. I asked him what he needed and he said some cereal and milk. So, I put the rest of my groceries in the car and said, "Let's go back to the store." I walked around the store with "Vincent" and we found the Lucky Charms and milk he wanted. As we walked to find bowls and spoons, I learned that he loves sweets. We found the other items and then I asked him if he needed anything else. He said this was great. I bagged his groceries for him and told him he was loved by God. I will never forget Vincent and I will never forget how we must seek out "Intentional Acts of Kindness." If we are walking around with a posture of kindness these will not be "random acts," but they will definitely be "intentional."

Soul 32: Elise

Who is a female role model in your life and why? My mom! She's beast in the best way! She's so smart and works harder than anyone I know! She loves with every cell in her body – she astounds me with her empathy. In moments of fear and uncertainty, she's able to find solutions and move through the fear. My mom taught me how to dream big and truly believe in my heart of hearts that I'm capable of making it happen.

What keeps you strong in times of trial? Breath, meditation, and taking things day-by-day – minute-by-minute.

When has your strength been personally challenged and how did you respond? COVID definitely caused a ton of stress and I had very little control. I was furloughed from my job and had to consider moving back home. Everyday I woke up with anxiety and applied to a bunch of jobs. I had to take each day as it came and show gratitude that the worst didn't happen. I had so much to be grateful for and I focussed heavily on that. I stepped outside my comfort zone and slowly gained confidence. Once I saw that I could overcome one hurdle, I moved on to the next.

Elise’s Intentional Act of Kindness

How did you use the $100? I donated the money to a dance company/project/ film called El Sueño. @el.sueno.dance El Sueño goes beyond creating dance for audience consumption. It focuses on "community engagement, healing, and empowerment of marginalized communities". Founded by Alicia Mullikin, this company highlights the important ancestral histories that are often silenced or forgotten, and analyzes their impact on the artists living now and for generations to come. Her work is extremely expansive and is very much needed.

What was the 'Intentional Act of Kindness' process like for you? So fun! I love the idea from the moment I heard about it. I wish there was more of this in the world.

Soul 31: Janet

What does "being strong" mean to you? Being strong means being dependable and true to yourself, even in times when it's hard to do so. There's strength in rising to the occasion during exceptional circumstances, and there's also strength in the everyday, day after day.

How did family shape your perception of strength? My family definitely cemented the association I have between strength and dependability and the importance I place on being there for others, because that's a huge part of my family's identity.

What’s one thing someone could do today to make them stronger? I'm a big fan of controlled discomfort and the idea that stretching a little bit outside your comfort zone, many times, adds up. For me, this often looks like learning new activities that make me think, "this is hard."

Janet’s Intentional Act of Kindness

How did you use the $100? I sent the $100 to a close friend. He is a high school teacher whose school year started back in person a couple weeks ago. I hoped the $100 would help cover the cost of classroom supplies he had to buy and wanted for at least some of it to go towards treating himself. I can’t fathom the strength, creativity, and resilience the last year and a half has required of teachers. This school year, my friend has also been super busy with teaching three subjects. I’ve been thinking of him and wanted to show some extra support.

What was the 'Intentional Act of Kindness' process like for you? This process was harder than I expected! It took me a while to decide how to spend the money because I found myself trying and failing to figure out who or what could use it “the most”, or how I could stretch it out to more people. Eventually, I decided to scrap that approach and to just do something kind— I think I’ll take from this experience that it’s more productive to just give than it is to overthink it.

Soul 30: Debbie

How does your culture shape your perception of strength? I think I grew up in a culture that did have some "scripts" written out for males and females, most were good, some were limiting. I think growing up around the broad culture I did start to see more and more female entrepreneurs, women who were moms and leaders and though leaders. I've seen strength abused, where people get controlling and bitter, and I've seen strength squashed, with people who don't exercise their voice or their voice is taken away. I think finding the cultural examples of women who use their strength well has been very helpful. Anyone from Chrissy Tiegen to Christine Caine, to Kristen Bell. People who use their excellence to benefit other people.

How have your trials made you stronger? About 3.5 years ago, I walked through my mom being on Hospice and battling cancer. She ultimately lost her battle to cancer December 2017. What is interesting as I look back is, some of the ways that season was rich with both grief and sorrow. I learned to befriend grief (which since I'm a "7" on the Enneagram, that is a huge deal for me personally), and not see sadness as my enemy. To learn how much joy and pain are intertwined--when I had the courage to grieve the loss, before people and before God, I was really honest. That allowed me to move THROUGH the pain, instead of around. And that allowed me to find joy again as well.

What advice would you give to the next generation of strong women? To be willing to invest in the long game. Growth, strength, and leadership is born through experience, testing, and time. If you surround yourself by like hearted people, that will also pull you to invest in the habits that keep you strong. Also, just like any race, pace yourself. We have grand ideas to change the world, but forget we need to invest in small habits like finances, making your bed, and creating a morning routine. Create small habits that allow you to do big things--without burning out before the race is done.

Debbie’s Intentional Act of Kindness

How did you use the $100? So this is how I'm going to use my $100 (tomorrow!). One of my dear friends just moved to my state from across the country. She needed a fresh start, and a new town, and northern California and its coastal beauty won her over. She's been working long hours, and she also doesn't know many people. I am gifting her $100 and sending her on a "day adventure" to help her get ready for a crazy summer (working at a summer camp). She's really tight on money and moved cross country, and is living a super rustic run down apartment after being out of work for about 6 months due to Covid. She just needs some basic things to get ready for summer, and I love planning adventures. I'm going to print up a list of fun things to do in San Jose and give her the $100 after she drops me off at the airport as a surprise.

What was the 'Intentional Act of Kindness' process like for you? It is really fun to plan! I love planning adventures and I've been so busy I haven't had time. I'm thrilled to be doing this for another person.

Soul 29: Irena

What does "being strong" mean to you? Being strong is my mama (“grandma” in Cantonese) working two jobs and raising 4 kids with minimal English, it’s my mom knowing she only wanted two kids and stopping after my sister and I despite familial protests to try for a son, it’s my best girl friends encouraging me to choose discomfort over resentment and honoring who I am.

How does your culture shape your perception of strength? This feels especially relevant today as we protest against anti-Asian violence. Strength is no longer keeping your head down and viewing success as the best revenge. It’s using our voice and our stories to fight, educate, and show up as allies to other POC communities. I’m so proud to see APIs across my friend and work networks evolving in this way, which gives me strength to do the same.

What advice would you give to the next generation of strong women? Strength is too often character mapped to men as a masculine trait. Feminism has looked like shoulder pads, pant suits, and talking loudly and I’ve also seen feminism look like reclaiming and owning your femininity and sexuality. But my advice is that it’s about who you are deep down. When you remove the clutter of societal, cultural, and generational expectations. Who are you underneath and are you allowing THAT to shine. Strength is loving and honoring yourself, because that will manifest out in every realm of your life.

Irena’s Intentional Act of Kindness

How did you use the $100? I donated $50 to Huang Zheng Fang (a widower after his wife was killed by a city truck in San Francisco) and SCIDpda (Seattle Chinatown International District Preservation and Development Authority). The Stop Asian Hate movement struck a chord in me. It's been an emotional and challenging time and I've sat crying feeling helpless toward those who have been directly impacted by racism and violence. Even worse, the violence against senior citizens in the Asian community has been especially distressing. I wanted my $100 to go toward a common goal of helping our Asian elders. Huang Zheng Feng could only afford one meal a day after his wife was killed by a City Truck in San Francisco which immediately made me think, this could be my family or this could be the family of people I know. I donated to his GoFundMe, resulting in over $30k raised to support his rent and food. In a similar vein, but more general, I donated $50 to SCIDpda because one of their weekly efforts is picking up and dropping off groceries to senior citizens in the Chinatown neighborhood. I love that they've taken the care to include Asian ingredients, to make the experience feel a little more familiar. I've yet to take off time on a Friday to be part of deliveries, though it's a goal I set this year, but until then I'm hopeful this donation will help in some small way.

What was the 'Intentional Act of Kindness' process like for you? It made me realize I'm not spending enough time spreading kindness outside my immediate circle. I show up for the ones I love and that feels easy and instinctive to me, but the fabric that ties humanity toward is our shared experience -- both the good and the bad. I'd love to spend time spreading kindness more widely and connecting with people beyond my close network.

Soul 28: Hannah

What advice would you give to the next generation of strong women? Treasure your relationships with other women and put in the effort to maintain them. I am very lucky to have a core group of girlfriends that I have known for 15+ years. When I was younger I often took my relationships with them for granted, but I have realized as an adult how rare it is for women to have long lasting female friendships. I am SO grateful my girlfriends and I have fought for our relationships and put in the work to maintain them. I would not be the woman I am today if it wasn't them.

What’s one thing someone could do today to make them stronger? Stop hesitating! I think in a lot of situations that require strength we get caught up and second guess our own capabilities. A phrase I often repeat to myself is "just jump." Meaning don't stop to think and allow that time for second guessing.

How do you encourage other women to be strong? I don't think encouraging women to be strong necessarily has to be verbal. My top love languages are acts of service and quality time, so when I encourage other women to be strong it often looks like me helping them in some way or linking arms and walking through the fire with them.

Hannah’s Intentional Act of Kindness

How did you use the $100? I donated the $100 to an organization called Foster the Bay. Their mission is to partner with churches in the Bay Area and support foster families. God called us to take care of the orphans and there is a major need in the United States. I hope to one day be a foster parent, but right now I help by supporting those who already are. May is also foster care awareness month so it felt extra fitting that I donate the $100 to an organization that supports foster care.

What was the 'Intentional Act of Kindness' process like for you? Honestly it was a little difficult. I had really hoped to donate the money to somebody in person, but with Covid I didn't come into contact with anybody who needed it. It also took me a long time to decide how to donate the money online. There are so many organizations that could have benefitted from the $100, but I eventually went with a place that I have partnered with before in-person.

Soul 27: Alissa

How have your trials made you stronger? I think I’ve discovered I’m a lot stronger than I anticipated I was. In this last season of my life, I’ve been learning about what it looks like to be persistent in trials rather than, running away from them, even though that’s the easiest response for me as an enneagram 7.

How do you encourage other women to be strong? To surround themselves with people who are moving in the same direction they are. Show me your 5 closest friends and I’ll show you who you’ll be 5 years from now. If your hope is to be strong in your faith, surround yourself with others that are also pursuing this.

What advice would you give to the next generation of strong women? Don’t be intimidated by your projections of a situation. There were so many times when I backed away from difficulty because I lived from a worst-case-scenario perspective. The only way to get stronger is to go through hard things!

Alissa’s Intentional Act of Kindness

How did you use the $100? I used my $100 for two separate blessing endeavors. My friend and I were at a local cidery around Easter and we noticed a sign that said “Easter Baskets” that included a cider paired with chocolate. The bar manager mentioned the baskets hadn’t been as popular as they hoped so they were prepared to take a pretty large financial hit, not selling the chocolate they anticipated reselling. I work at a church and our church had a ministry house down the street filled with young twenty somethings focused on living in an intentional discipleship community. I asked the bar manager if he’d be willing to sell us his chocolate for the night so that we could deliver it to our ministry house up the street! It felt like such an easy nab, two birds with one stone, blessing moment.

With the other $50, I anonymously purchased the Wendy’s run my youth students take every Wednesday night after youth group. One student typically gets saddled with all the extra expenses, so I pulled him aside and let him know an anonymous donor wanted to sponsor that night’s Wendy’s run for the 10 kiddos that normally go.

I wanted to see how far I could get the $100 to stretch! All I thought was, “wow, there are so many different ways for this to be used and to create an impact so Lord, help me to be creative! Who do you want to bless?” So I waited on the Lord for his timing and urgings and then acted when I felt prompted to move/act/bless.

What was the 'Intentional Act of Kindness' process like for you? So rewarding- gift giving is one of my love languages , so being asked to be a part of a project that is all about blessing and giving filled me with so much life.

Soul 26: Lindsay

Who is a female role model in your life and why? Mother Earth. I have said this before almost as a joke, but the more I dwelled on the idea, the more I’ve come to realize she is everything I want to strive to be: resilient, adaptable, mysterious, complex, strong yet vulnerable, a provider, a healer, and someone who encourages diversity. Biomimicry is a great design solution, so why not embrace it as life's solution?

How can you be strong and vulnerable? Baring the most intimate aspects of yourself and intentionally trusting others, takes strength. And funnily enough, in those instances, others may only see how strong you are. This in turn, can continue to spread strength to others through creating a closer bond, teaching a lesson, and/or giving them the space to be vulnerable as well.

What’s one thing someone could do today to make them stronger? Sing! Find a song that lights your fire and sing/yell/rhythmically speak your heart out. It’s a little bit of vulnerability and fear mixed with a lot of good mental and physical vibrations. Hey and even in the case that singing doesn’t make you feel stronger; you will have at least strengthened your lungs!

Lindsay’s Intentional Act of Kindness

How did you use the $100? I split the $100 between the 5 local businesses which provided for their community despite the mountain of a year we had last year.

Those in the service industry repeatedly adapted their business through the pandemic, especially small local businesses. Though I did continue to support local businesses, I felt as though more of a thank you was necessary. Not only did these business provide their services but they provided sanity, love, support, and strength to their community. That is a lot to have on your shoulders along with the personal weight of the pandemic, so a small act of kindness seemed more than right.

What was the 'Intentional Act of Kindness' process like for you? Harder than I thought it would be! For awhile, I was waiting for an opportunity to present itself but one blaring moment never came. However, this exercise 'definitely made me more observant of my surroundings when it came to those in need. Then I tried to figure out where the $100 would make the most difference but what I ultimately realized, in the end, I am not the one who decides how big of a difference the $100 would make to someone. However, this exercise made me think deeply about how many ways there is to make a difference. This process helped me reflect on the different levels of community I have surrounding me and how I want to support them in the future!

Soul 25: Anna

What does "being strong" mean to you? In the corporate environment in which I work, being a strong female often means having power. They think they have to prove they are strong by lording their power over others, by not backing down, by being cruel. After years of working under women like this, strength has taken on a different meaning to me. Now, being strong means knowing who I am and having a very clear picture of my own strengths and weaknesses. I have seen that when I have confidence in myself, there is no need to prove my strength by making others feel small. Instead, this quiet confidence and complete realness inspires others to feel comfortable just as they are, and in turn, have confidence and strength of their own.

How did/does family shape your perception of strength? My family is very in touch with their emotions. It wasn't until I started dating my fiancé and I saw how differently his family interacted, that I fully realized just how emotionally driven my family is. We never yelled or even raised our voices to each other. We were taught to be incredibly sensitive to the feelings of everyone around us, sometimes to our own detriment. Because of this, I see strength as a quiet trait. Where others might view strength as a loud and in-your-face quality, the people I think of as being the most strong are those that affect others in their quietness. My mother, for example, is the kindest, wisest, and sweetest woman you will ever meet. Her strength is found in the way that she raised a wonderful family without having a good example to follow, while working full time. My father is so tender-hearted and silly. His strength is found in the way that he worked two jobs almost his entire life to provide for us. Neither of these things are loud or noticeable. My parents didn't become CEOs when they were young, or strike it rich in the stock market, or run for political office. But the quiet way in which they have lived their ordinary lives day after day after day and put others first, makes them so strong. This is the kind of strong I want to be.

Anna’s Intentional Act of Kindness

How did you use the $100?  When I first found out that I would be responsible for giving away $100, I just knew that I wanted to bless the un-housed community with it. Homelessness is a huge issue for Seattle right now, so I had every intention of carrying the cash around with me until I came across someone experiencing homelessness and could buy them groceries or takeout from a restaurant. The day I finally had plans to leave my house, I remembered to grab the cash and I prayed that God would put the right person or people in my path. I was in downtown Seattle all morning and never came across a single person! I was honestly shocked, but I continued to keep my eyes peeled as I went home to the suburbs to do my grocery shopping. I was in the checkout line at Costco when I happened to hear the checker tell the woman at the register that her card had been declined again and she was $xx short. For a moment, I felt panic and I wanted to stay in the safety of the line while I weighed the pros and cons of blessing her in particular. But then I realized that I had a very short window of time in which I could intervene, and so I bypassed the several other people in line and handed her all of the money. She was so touched and unsure if she should take it and I told her that I had been looking for someone to give that money to and I just knew that it was meant for her. In the end, it was more money than she needed, but I was happy that it would be able to do even more good for her, and that the next time she used the cash, she would think of this moment. I quickly and quietly went back to my place in line and she checked out and left. There was a moment where I wished that I could have said more to her or done more, but the moment was so quick, and I realized that maybe it was better that way, so nothing could muddy-up the purity of the gesture. But several minutes later, as I left the checkout lane, I saw that she was waiting for me with tears in her eyes. I went up to her, and in-spite of COVID concerns, I gave her a huge hug. She said, "You taught me something today." And I again told her that I had been waiting for the right person to give it to, and I just knew that it was her. She said, "you'll never know what this meant to me. Thank you so much." And I told her "God bless. Go do something great."

What was the ‘Intentional Act of Kindness’ process like for you? It caught me off guard that I had such a clear plan of what I thought I was supposed to do with the money, and then God made it so clear that he had other plans. I really had to fight the feeling of panic and fear that she would turn my help away. I live in a largely affluent suburb, and I was really worried that she would be offended and would turn down my help. I also had to shut myself down from overthinking to the point that I let the moment pass me by. I could have stopped to analyze her cart or what she wearing to deem if she or her purchases were worthy of the gift. But I am so, so glad that I pushed past the fears to follow through on what fell into my lap, because it was such an amazing feeling. The money was never mine, so I can't call it an act of generosity, but the act of being intentionally kind, in a rather big way, to a complete stranger, was so gratifying. I almost feel guilty for getting something out of it, but it certainly impacted me. I was as touched as she was by her kind response, and the fact that she waited for me so she could more personally thank me is something I will never forget. I felt a million feet tall when I left Costco that day, and I am determined to continue to look out for people every day who I can bless with intentional kindness, whether it's monetarily or not.

Soul 24: Alyssa

What does "being strong" mean to you? For me, being strong means developing resilience to life’s trials. One constant in life is that we will always have hardships, but that’s what develops character and strength. I grew up as a competitive figure skater and one of the main things you learn is that every time you fall you get back up again. That’s so true not just in skating, but in life as a whole.

How does family shape your perception of strength? I was born with asthma and life-threatening allergies. My parents easily could’ve raised me to have a victim mentality, but they put so much effort into making sure I felt like any other kid and that I could do everything other kids could do. I’ve never felt like a victim, even though it would’ve been very easy to. I’m so thankful to them for that.

How have your trials made you stronger? I’ve suffered from depression and anxiety for years, but they really came to a head in college. It’s been 6 years since then, and I still struggle, but I’ve had an amazing support system and have found ways to get out of the hole I feel like I fall into sometimes. It’s gotten easier and easier to not feel helpless and stuck. I’m able to have more resilience that has come with a lot of practice and support from family and friends.

Alyssa’s Intentional Act of Kindness

How did you use the $100? I have a friend who has been hit hard with the pandemic. She lost her job, has been dealing with health issues, and is still trying to pay off her student debt/medical bills on top of it all. It felt good to help in that small way and I think she really appreciated it.

What was the ‘Intentional Act of Kindness’ process like for you? Honestly, it took a while to come up with how to use it because I don’t get to see her a lot so she wasn’t really on my radar. There seemed to be so many different ways to use the $100 and I couldn’t decide on how to ultimately use it. I prayed about it and she came to mind and I felt so at peace about my decision.

I’m so thankful to have been a part of this process! It felt amazing to be able to help my friend out. At first, it felt like such a small drop in the bucket, but I could see how much the small act of kindness meant to her. I’m thankful that I was really able to take the time to reflect on how I could help others and I hope to be able to continue.

Soul 23: Grace

What advice would you give to the next generation of strong women?

You are seen.
You are known.
You are enough.
You are worth more than your body.
You are loved far more than you can understand.
You are treasured by God.
Read it again.

I have that note saved in my phone. I sometimes have to pray it 5-10 times before it sinks in. We are in a society that teaches us we aren’t enough. Consumerism lives on us thinking that, if I have “_____” I would be happy. If my hair, nails, skin, or body could look like her then I would be happy. It’s just not true. A strong woman said to me yesterday that our idols point to God because they will never fulfill us. We will always be wanting more. We don’t need more. God is enough and he treasures you. Read it again.

How can you be strong and vulnerable? I think strength is vulnerability. To be vulnerable is scary, especially in our hypersensitive cancel culture. It can be scary to share your story. I look up to those women around me who are strong enough to be authentic.

How have your trials made you stronger? I used to have the illusion that I didn’t deserve trials. That I deserved an easy life because I was a good person. That simply is not true. God is not why bad things happen to us, but he can bring beauty out of the most horrible situations. He can make us so strong and use our story to help support and strengthen those around us.

I was sexually assaulted at 16, and I often thought “why me?”. However every year after that abuse happened, God has put someone in my life that needed to talk about their abuse. Unfortunately, this is a shared experience for too many women. I have been able to share stories, tears, and healing with so many people in my life. God used our common pain to make us stronger together. This trial that I honestly couldn’t see how God could make better, he still brings beauty out of it.

Grace’s Intentional Act of Kindness

How did you use the $100? I used my $100 by blessing four people in my life with a little extra money for the holidays. I loved this project and really hope it brought a smile to their face for them to either bless themselves or pay it forward. I decided to use my money this way because those four people in my life bless me on a daily basis by showing up for me. They are consistently are kind and loving when I don’t deserve it. They help me be the strong woman I am today and I couldn’t see a more fitting way to use it.

What was the 'Intentional Act of Kindness' process like for you? For a minute I wasn’t sure how to use it and then it hit me that it didn’t have to be a big gesture just four small ones that spread a lot of joy!