The Courage to Receive

Today, I want to invite you to move into a mindset of connection—however that looks for you—and allow yourself to receive.

On Friday, I had the honor of sitting with a group of courageous women living at Union Gospel Mission. They’ve been walking through a study using my book, Cherished: Shattered Innocence. Restored Hope, and each one carries a story marked by trauma and exploitation. This was the second time one of the counselors from Alive at Last has used the book in a group setting, and whenever possible, I love showing up in person to meet these brave souls face-to-face.

After we finished our time together, I gave each woman a hug. Some of them held on tightly, and I leaned in to whisper how proud I was of their courage—the kind of courage it takes to break old patterns and begin writing a new story.

One woman stood out to me. She carried a “Mama” heart—strong, grounding, nurturing. Her hug was firm, and in that moment, I felt her giving to me. So I gently whispered, “Wow, that was powerful. I bet you give a lot. How about you let me give to you, and you just receive?”

She immediately softened in my arms and began to sob—allowing herself, maybe for the first time in a long time, to receive love, compassion, and pride… simply for who she is.

Afterward, I told her what a beautiful gift her giving is, and how much I appreciated it. But I also offered this:
“I hope you find safe places where you can allow yourself to receive, too.”

Because I know—receiving can feel so vulnerable. Especially when giving has been your shield, or even your identity.
It’s easy to tell ourselves things like:

“I don’t need anything.”
“I’m fine.”
“If I receive, that means I’ll owe something.”
“Receiving just doesn’t feel safe.”

But as your heart continues to heal, your soul will begin to long for more.
More kindness.
More compassion.
More love.
More goodness that *comes toward you*—and actually lands.

So today, I hope you’ll pause.
Find your safe space.
And give yourself permission to receive.

You’re worth it. 

For more information on how you can volunteer or give to Alive at Last please click this link: https://aliveatlast.mn.co/