My names is Ashley James, and I am 28. Challenges! Where to begin? Most of my challenges have been the battle to undo emotional damage sustained from growing up in a strained household. I was raised in a fatherless home, and lived with a mother whose personal struggles from the past impacted her children negatively. We struggled financially, we moved around a lot, and there were times we lived with alcoholism and various forms of abuse. This combination resulted in a number of issues for me – insecurities, strained relationships, anger, depression, etc. – issues that took me many years to overcome. I recall hearing a scripture that stated, ‘…be not conformed to this world, but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind (Rom 12:2). I had a revelation! Just because I was born into so many issues, it didn’t mean those issues had to define and shape who I was to become. I made up in my mind that I would not be a victim to these problems. I promised God and I promised myself that things would be different for me and my future family, and the transformation began. I prayed for wisdom and set out on a journey to break the cycles that characterized my family for generations. From a positive self-image and a good education, to a good income and healthy relationships, I must say that things are going well. I still face a number of challenges; however, because of my journey, I am much more equipped to overcome, and even conquer any situation. As far as the future is concerned, I am not sure where life will take me. I do know, however, that with faith and hard work, there is nothing that is beyond my reach. I quote Andy Mineo, ‘My biggest enemy is me, and even I can’t stop me.’
