Angela

How did you get connected with The Fatherless Daughter Project?

My best friend, business partner, and overall soul sister is actually the Communications Director for The Fatherless Daughter Project, and I’ve been fortunate enough to be offered the opportunity to be a part of such an organization as 2016 kicks off.

Can you tell us in a few sentences about your personal story of father loss?

I was 5 years old when I witnessed my father leave my mother to start another family of three.  He was very successful in his career, and my entire life I saw how much his job consumed all of his energy and identity.  I was under my mother’s care during my early childhood, but at the age of 12 I chose to move across country with my father and his family.  Being young and clueless, I believed him when he promised that a better life would be provided for me.  However, the moment I moved is the moment my Cinderella story began.

Under the care of my father and step mother, I was fed lies and convinced to believe a family story that was never true.  Trapped in a toxic environment that involved alcohol, drugs, infidelity, physical and emotional abuse, my childhood was ripped away from me.  Enduring such dark experiences forced me to mature at such a young age.  In the absence of stability, big sister was compelled to fulfill numerous roles simultaneously – protector, nurturer, employee, student, athlete, and teenager.  However, the one role I couldn’t fill was that of a daughter.  My father may have brought four children into this world, but it felt and continuous to feel as though only three exist.

What has been the biggest challenge being fatherless?

Ever since I was a child, I’ve always asked myself, “Why doesn’t he love me?”  Well, my biggest challenge is not being able to answer that question till this very day.

What has helped you to survive?

Establishing a relationship with God has completely altered my perspective on life.  Through prayer and constant communion, He has given me the strength to heal deep wounds and find happiness where there is suffering.  It is the unconditional love from God the Father that saved my life.

Is there a special person(s) in your life that has helped you find healing?
When I moved out at 17, my best friend’s mother, Suzanne, became my legal guardian.  She made certain I graduated from high school and college with academic excellence.  It is the support of my mother, Mama Suzanne, and her two children that has made me the successful young adult that I am today.

Where do you shine?

Because God’s light shines through me, I’m a positive influence in the lives of many surrounding peers, coworkers, and family members.  A higher education in psychology also enables me to not only understand the mind and behavior of people, but also help ignite the motivation for personal growth and self-love.

What would you tell your younger self?

“Growth is painful.  Change is painful.  But nothing is as painful as staying stuck somewhere you don’t belong.”

If you could have a theme song, what would it be?
If I could have a theme song it would be, “Flawless” by MercyMe.

How do you hope to make a difference in the world?

Everyone has a story. Everyone has faced challenges.  But at some point, there will be people who feel as though they can’t move past their unfortunate circumstances.  I want to make a difference by helping these individuals understand that their circumstances are either a blessing or a lesson and find the strength to let go.

Fill in the blank: “The most amazing thing about my life is _______________.”

that I am the happiest I’ve ever been.  With a strong support system and complete trust in God, I am the best version of me.  It’s essential to take care of yourself mentally, physically, and spiritually because ultimately, life is all about perspective.

Thanks, Angela. We are stronger with you in our sisterhood!