"There's power in allowing yourself to be known and heard, in owning your unique story, in using your authentic voice. And there's grace in being willing to know and hear others. This, for me, is how we become."
- Michelle Obama
It's true. There is so much power in owning your story and who you are. When I was driving in my car listening to Michelle telling me her story (thank you audio book!) and finishing off with her final words I had a moment. For the first time I felt like God was talking to me through her words. I wanted to tell my story in hopes that someone, just someone, could resonate and I could help encourage others share their story. So in her last paragraph when she talks about how she "hopes to create space for other stories and other voices, to widen the pathway for who belongs and why" all I could think to myself is WOW. I was struggling to decide on a name for my blog and there is was right in front of. Owning Klea.
My story is far from perfect and by all means isn't the most glamorous. But it is important to me. It is who I am, and who I am becoming. As you read you will
learn that things got ugly at times and weren't the greatest, I am still so very proud of my story. I own my story and I am proud of my past that has shaped me into he strong person I am today. As my grandmother said in her journal, "I am not perfect, nor was I ever meant to be."
My wish for my you is that at the very least you are inspired to share your story in whatever way you choose. Use your voice, don't be afraid to tell people who you are and how you got here today. Use your authentic voice. Own your unique story.