As women we take on many different roles and strive hard to make everything in our life run smoothly. We assume these roles willingly and lovingly because, well, that’s what we are taught women should do. We do it for our family, friends, church, community, jobs—and the list goes on and on. But during this pandemic, we’ve all been stretched thin with ever increasing responsibilities to survive. It isn’t any wonder that at some point it becomes all too much.
As we commemorate Women’s History Month and the close of a trying and challenging winter, we’re looking forward to a new and better season. In this edition of IMARA Woman Magazine we’re sharing the stories of women and how they made it through.
Pastor Alecia Weeks Garrick knows the struggles women often face because she has faced a few of her own. As Pastor of the Kingdom Harvest, a church she founded in Hopkins, SC, she is ministering to her members in new ways that not only help them grow spiritually but also encourages them to pursue their passion. (page 8)
In fact, women in the ministry play an important and necessary role, especially now helping other women realize their struggles and challenges will not defeat them. We’re proud to share the stories of A.M.E. Church Elder Rosalyn Coleman (page 12), United Methodist Church Superintendent Telley Lynette Gadson (page 14) and the Reverend Angela Ford Nelson (page 15) because their stories remind us of what women can and continue to do when we let God lead the way.
Whether we’re juggling virtual learning with our children while at the same time trying to work from home (page 28), or we’re making the critical decisions needed to keep children safe at school during the pandemic (page 24), it’s okay to admit that you’re not Superwoman and that you need a little help to make it through.
Let’s take the time to take care of ourselves and stay healthy –mind, body and spirit (page 18). These trying times will pass and together, we will prosper!
Be Blessed,
Wendy