In your light I grew

by Guest blogger

To celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the Women of the ELCA, the SWO of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod put together a booklet entitled, “In Your Light I Grew.” Women were asked to share stories about a woman who either helped them grow in Women of the ELCA or who helped them personally grow. While most of the stories were about women who inspired the writer by sharing their years of experience with them, I wrote about how my daughter made my light grow.

My daughter was born with a hearing impairment. Due to her hearing impairment, she needed to have special accommodations at school and in life. She was then diagnosed with weak eye muscles, which affected her reading ability. At the young age of 9, she had already given me new bold courage to speak out and up for those who had no voice and to raise awareness about issues affecting children around the world. It is in her light that I grew as a mother and advocate.

My daughter also inspired me to get involved more with the Women of the ELCA so that the organization will continue to be there for her. Right after she was born, I bought her a shirt that says, “Young Woman of the ELCA.” When I look at her, I see the future of the Women of the ELCA. It is because of her and young women around the world that I SALT (Share Abundance, Love, and Thanks) my offerings to Women of the ELCA. I encourage you to also SALT your offerings to Women of the ELCA for all of the women in your life who have helped you to grow in their light.