Live. Laugh. Love. || 3Ls

Something I once believed was impossible for me was discovering healing, peace, love, and joy within myself. I never imagined I'd genuinely smile from the heart again, only outwardly. Laughing was simple because it served as a defense mechanism against the inner pain I felt. I used to rely on my former best friend for happiness, who found me during a difficult time—emerging from a physically abusive relationship—broken, confused, and bitter at 20, which was hard to overcome. He taught me about Agape love, led me back to God, and reminded me of my worth, making me feel secure.

Years later, I relocated and met someone I thought could be my best friend, but it turned into a nightmare. Emotional abuse was far from great; it was the worst experience of my life, stripping away my joy, love, peace, and my laughter, my greatest defense. I thought there was no recovery for me. Through this, I learned the power of words—they can break or build someone. It was a tough journey, especially when strangers and others complimented everything I was told was my worst, born from their insecurities. It took time to understand why he treated me that way, projecting his insecurities onto me, and why he tried to revive my past. This alerted me that it was time to leave a relationship that others perceived as "perfectly happy" and "cute." As I mentioned in part 1 of The Journey - In Character, "For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us" and "All things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." I had to grasp the meaning of these words. By allowing Him to take away my pain, I now experience the peace, love, and joy within me. I've come to understand His promises more deeply. This life was part of His plan from the start.

Honestly, it took time for me to accept God's unwavering Agape love. Since experiencing His love, I've never felt so at peace and in love with myself. The picture below warms my heart, seeing the fire of peace, love, joy, and forgiveness emanate from that genuine laughter. Today, I'm in a happy place, and I know it's not by chance. I love how He crafted my life and sees my heart. I fall to my knees, grateful for every new day. I don't thank luck because my blessings come from the Father's heart. Not from the sky or chance, but because I'm not lucky, I'm LOVED 💕💕💕 YAAASSS! You already know I'm singing now, not just typing away LOL.

Life is better when you're laughing. Be happy, it drives the haters crazy. So Live, Laugh and Love.

Dear Resilient Woman,

Say no to domestic violence - be it physical or emotional abuse, be it you're a teenager or an adult. The ultimate lesson all of us have to learn is unconditional love, which includes not only for others but ourselves as well. So love you first and be unapologetic about it. Know your worth. Stay Gucci!

With love,

Amanda Nothando