Dream

Julia is a 13 year old girl who's not afraid to dream about the things she wants in life. Her understanding that the ability to dream is a gift from God, which is a belief that runs deep within her. She knew that most people in the world didn't look at dreaming as a gift, but she knew the ability to do the simplest things in life were gifts. Not everyone understood her strength to be able to see the brighter side of life while living in poverty with a single father. Some days Julia didn't understand her own strength. She never allowed her empty refrigerator, or dirty clothes to deter her from her dreams. She knew that God had something great for her, maybe God had something for her that not even her own imagination could handle. SHE KEEPS THE FAITH!!

Shannon is a 35 year old woman who lives in what's considered the best part of town. She's been married to Al for 9 years, which he is the best dentist in town. He's the man God sent to her right after she finished college. Since then, they've had twins who are now 5 years old and ready to start school. Like any other wife and mother she wakes up everyday putting her best foot forward, while accomplishing both of these jobs. Though she's living what most would consider the "best" life, she has endured some hardships. About 3 years ago she was in a terrible car crash that led to her losing her right leg. As you can imagine this was a trying time for her and her husband, but she still knew that God had purpose for her life. She knew that the crash took her leg, but it couldn't take her purpose in life. She still dreams of one day becoming the owner of a private high school. SHE REFUSES TO GIVE UP!!

Tonya is a 40 year old woman who has endured a tremendous amount of pain. She was raped by her uncle at the age 10 and to her surprise her mother did nothing to help her. Her mother was an addict that couldn't seem to control her addiction and her need to escape her own pain. Tonya had an older brother named Marcus, which was the one who took care of the house, and also her. Marcus was 14 years old when he decided to deal with the dope dealers to bring in enough money. He felt that he had to take care of himself and Tonya, because their mother was unable to do her job. Marcus refuse to let the state separate them, so he did whatever he had to do to keep food on the table and clothes on their backs. Marcus knew that the jobs he was able to get legally wouldn't pay enough to take care of them both. Being able to get his hands on drugs was easy because they stayed in the middle of the projects, which is where a lot of dope dealers spent their time. Marcus did his best to provide for them, and often told Tonya to fight her way out of poverty. He took care of his sister even after she graduated high school. Unfortunately, some months after Tonya's high school graduation, Marcus was killed right before his 20th birthday due to a drug deal gone bad. This left Tonya devastated and lonely, because her mother was still out on the streets and she had no family to turn to. After the death of her brother Tonya vowed to never go back to the projects. She managed to always dream big and work hard for a better life. Tonya signed up for college, worked two jobs, and even went homeless for awhile. Years later she is now a very successful lawyer and married to the man of her dreams. Tonya was not afraid to dream big, because she knew God was always with her. Through him anything is possible.......SHE BELIEVED!!

These 3 women gives hope, and encouragement to all of us women. Life has a way of dealing us cards that we don't often know how to deal with, but somehow we make it through. Not only do we make it through, but we come out better than ever before. God doesn't allow things to happen without purpose, but he allows them to happen for your benefit and favor. Use your dreams and imaginations to help carry you through hard times. These women weren't afraid to dream and imagine the life they truly wanted. Julia continues to keep the faith despite her current situation. Shannon refuses to give up, even after the car crash, and Tonya believed through all of her hurt and pain.

Be a strong woman!!!

I hope this encourages someone!!!

*The characters in these short stories are all fictional!! Though these short stories and characters are fictional, it's still the reality for some women across the world.

Jas