EDITOR ' S
Note
“ The only way that we can live , is if we grow . The only way that we can grow is if we change . The only way that we can change is if we learn . The only way we can learn is if we are exposed . And the only way that we can become exposed is if we throw ourselves out into the open . Do it . Throw yourself .” ― C . JoyBell C .
I love the foregoing quote because it epitomizes the theme for this quarter ’ s issue and that of the year , which is to INCREASE . If we are to INCREASE , there are steps we must undertake to make increase not just a word or wish , but an action . It is that simple . It starts with seeking the means through which we will grow . Means that resonate with us while allowing us to be true to ourselves . The many ways may include coaching , mastermind courses , researching , working on our strengths , getting rid of procrastination , stop comparing ourselves to others , getting out of our own way , and " just throwing ourselves in " according to C . Joybell C .
We can no longer hide ; one of the speakers at our recently concluded virtual conference said , “ We have to show up for the people who need us .” And this means we position ourselves , step outside of our comfort zones through deliberate effort , and show up by connecting with those around us , allowing them to see our value . Another speaker said , " Showing up as our authentic self will attract and help those we must serve ." In this issue , I take the lead to show up by being the cover woman . As the founder of a movement that has changed the lives of many , I felt it was imperative to connect at a deeper level by sharing parts of my journey and life experience . I hope any woman who reads this issue will identify and rise to their greatness . I now follow the footsteps of our previous cover women .
While this has not been the easiest thing to do , it was the most needed . I am showing up as my authentic self , stripped of the veils and curtains of any limitations , be they self-imposed or otherwise .
And so , I identify with the women who choose to stay under the radar , but , showing up in this way has reinforced how important our stories are and the need for each woman to shine her light and encourage other women along this incredible journey that will allow them to INCREASE . I thank our writers who are also being showcased in this issue as they share the theme INCREASE in their unique way . I salute each of them .
Never has the following verse in the bible been more resounding — Matthew 5:14-16 : “ You are the light of the world . A town built on a hill cannot be hidden . Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl . Instead , they put it on its stand , and it gives light to everyone in the house . In the same way , let your light shine before others , that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven ."
To increase , means we boldly show up and shine our light , committing to being who God has called us to be . It means we divorce ourselves from the way of the world . And instead , we lead from what is inside us and those things that align with God ’ s will for our lives . Committing to INCREASE this year will be life-changing , so I encourage you to put the plans in place and work the plans . Let us come together and do this . Let us celebrate each other at the end of the year because we increased and came up higher .
Enough wishing and hoping ; it is time . It is our time .
Jacqueline Walker-Johnson Editor-in-Chief www . thebeyondwoman . com THEBEYONDWOMAN