Rising Resiliently: The Power of Support and Self-Belief

Reflections on Strength, Sisterhood, and the People Who Keep Us Moving Forward

Yesterday, just when I thought I was running out of steam and had nothing left to give, someone spoke one simple, positive word that reminded me of something powerful—through every phase of my life, I have always risen. Resiliently.

The previous day, I had the joy of reconnecting with friends who have long since become family. My good Sis, whom I’ve known for over 30 years, was in town. We grew up in the same church, and though I’m a few years older, we also attended the same high school—THEE Western High School, an all-girls college preparatory school. I graduated in 1994, and she graduated in 1996. We sang in the same choirs and shared a special bond in a small singing group that traveled around Baltimore City.

At 16, I found myself pregnant, and guess who became my firstborn’s godmother? You guessed it—this same friend. While some parents may have discouraged their children from staying connected with a teen mom (and trust me, many did!), hers did the opposite. They welcomed me in, asked me about my dreams, and held me accountable without judgment. Their love and guidance were an extension of the support I had from my own mother, and they became like second parents to me. They fed me, encouraged me, and stood by my side through some of my most defining moments.

• They were there when I earned my associate’s degree.
• They showed up when I graduated from law school.
• They celebrated every milestone with me.

Life takes us through unexpected twists and turns, but along the way, there are people who remind us that we are not alone. Their presence makes the journey a little sweeter, a little lighter. And for that, I am deeply grateful—not just for the people who have walked beside me for decades but also for those I continue to meet and build meaningful connections with today.

This image of doves represents peace, harmony, love, devotion, purity, and freedom. For me, these qualities are symbolic of the relationships I cherish—lifelong bonds built on trust, understanding, and unwavering connection. It’s also a special symbol to me because the dove is my high school mascot—we are known as the Western Doves.

Reflective Questions:

1. Who are the people in your life who have offered you unwavering support? How have they shaped your journey?
   
   
2. What moments in your past prove that you are stronger than you sometimes believe?
   
   
3. If you could offer encouragement to your younger self, what would you say?
   
   
4. What fears or doubts have held you back from stepping fully into your power? What’s one step you can take to move through them?
   
   
5. How do you want to show up for others in the way that people have shown up for you?
   
   
6. What are you doing today that your future self will thank you for?

With Gratitude,

Stacie J. Whitaker-Harris