FROM PAIN TO PURPOSE
Finding Purpose and Fulfilling Dreams Through Faith at Any Age
If anyone had told me two years ago that I would be an author and a model at the age of 56, I would have called them crazy. How could I possibly do any of that, given the background I came from? My dad died when I was 6 years old. My mother was an alcoholic. I was molested and sexually violated. I went through a divorce after 33 years of marriage, and I survived a smear campaign. So, what do you mean I can become a model and write a book?
God stays close to the brokenhearted. And honestly, that's how His light comes in. Think about it: If you never have any issues and your life is perfect, would you acknowledge Him at all?
He takes those broken pieces of you and puts you back together, making you stronger, bolder, and better. Then He gives you a purpose. And once you realize who you are in Christ Jesus, you will understand how to fulfill that purpose through the dreams He put in your heart.
As a child, I remember having dreams of modeling, singing, dancing, acting, and all the things kids dream of. As I grew older, life got to lifing, and I forgot about them. But here I am, 56 years old, living for Christ and pursuing my dreams.
God can use anybody for His glory. It doesn't matter your background, your age, your size, or your skin color. Once you surrender your life to Him, ALL things become possible.
I pray my life's experiences will show others who think they are not qualified to pursue their dreams that they, in fact, can.
Theresa Hooks is an author and model from Enterprise, Alabama, with backgrounds in nursing and military service. She published her debut poetry collection "Drowning In My Thoughts" and continues developing a second book. As a Christian Model Association alumni, she has modeled internationally, including at Paris Fashion Week. Theresa attributes her perseverance to faith and demonstrates compassion through charitable…
