What Do You Rebel?

Today I was involved in a event that will forever hold a place in my heart. I was asked to be a keynote speaker at an event sponsored by Saving Our Daughters and K. Michelle. The event was called "What Do You Rebel?" This is a title that is dubbed from K. Michelle's upcoming album. However this was bigger than her CD or my pageant title. The event is part of a movement that aims at giving voices to young women who have been victims to domestic violence, abuse, rape, bullying, etc.  

My speech focused on my struggle concerning my mother's diagnosis combined with the bullying that I was faced with that same year. This ultimately led to an unhealthy eating disorder in hopes to gain control on my life and to meet the hegemonic standard of beauty. I concluded my speech by encouraging others to take the baby steps that I was forced to take in order to better my life and beat the issues that I had been "rebelling" against for a total of eight years (my weight, my self-esteem). I used my perseverance and strength as an example that with it and God, all things are possible.

I was overwhelmed by the generosity that the organization bestowed and the stories that I heard from women who defied all odds and could stand in front of an audience and say that they had emerged from their experiences as a changed, and better person. They did not let their relationships with domestic violence and verbal abuse define who God destined them to be! I left the event having met a large group of heroes whose lives I touched and who in return touched mine! Let this be a example that when you are at your lowest there is nowhere to go but up and that you determine your destiny. So dream big and turn all of those dreams into reality.

Love,
Dymond Elise