Her Value

Today, as I walked along the beach—my happy place—I found myself reflecting on my value and what I equate it to. My mind wandered back to a painful chapter in my life, during my divorce from my abusive ex. I remember his words cutting deep: “I am going to give our daughter a better life than you because I have money, an education, and everything you don’t.” He promised her lavish trips and material things because that was the only way he knew how to express love.

At the time, I felt inadequate. I feared she would love him more because I couldn’t offer extravagant gifts or vacations—I was barely able to put food on the table. His words became my definition of worth as a mother, and I let them shape how I saw myself. I felt small, powerless, and unworthy.

But today, I see things differently. My daughter has grown into an incredible young woman, and together, we have traveled the world—not just physically, but emotionally and intellectually. She walked alongside me as I pursued my education, as I worked to better myself, as I transformed my life into something beautiful and strong. She witnessed perseverance, love, and true resilience.

If I could go back and speak to that woman I once was, I would tell her how amazing she is. I would remind her that the words spoken over her life were a reflection of his insecurities, not her truth. I would assure her that she is more than enough and that the best version of herself was still unfolding.

So today, I ask you: Who are you giving the power to define your worth? No one else should dictate how you view yourself as a mother, a wife, a friend, or a person. Your value is not in what others say about you, but in who you truly are and the life you create.

Walk in your worth. Stand in your truth. And never let someone else decide your value for you.