Empowering Girls Quotes

Instead of being groomed for her future husband and/or career, a young lady should be first taught to love herself. I am a firm believer that if you put yourself first and find out who you are as a person, everything else will fall into place.
Sadly, that is not what a young lady is taught.
We are taught to love others and to put everyone's needs before our own. We are taught to make sacrifices at an early age to the point where we do not know any better as we age. The edges of our life are rough because we do not know who we are as a person. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

Embrace your individuality by embracing your authentic self. Go deeper to develop a relationship with yourself. Accept who you are; because self-love requires discipline. Create a life that you know is yours - the key to a better you is perseverance. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

In a marriage, a woman has to be the backbone, the compromiser; yet half the time she feels powerless. Marriage isn't easy. There are a lot of pitfalls, steep uphill battles, obstacles, compromises, and sacrifices. As the saying goes, the man is the head of the household, but truth be told, I am still trying to understand how that is so. There are some good men out there who successfully honor their role as a husband and a father to their children. However, there are so many single mothers in the world today who are the heads of households, being both the mother and the father. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

The darkness taught me to trust my intuition. It helped me to coordinate and bring peace within my center when I walked into the unknown. The darkness helped me to know when I needed to surrender and to dissect each circumstance. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

When you can't provide for them anymore, their true character comes out. They treat you like pure shit. To make matters worse, they talk trash behind your back, as if what you've done for them was useless. That's how some people are - they will use you up and break you down until you have nothing left to give them or yourself. People who do not have anything to lose will make sure you lose everything you've work so hard for. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

Their time of talking and belittling us this way has expired. They tried, but they failed to realize we are strong and we will never give up.
Their time of thinking they can touch us inappropriately and we will keep quiet has expired. No! We will rise up and bring the world to its feet. Trust me… We will be seen and heard!
Their time of trying to break us down has expired. No! We can move mountains!
Their time of pointing their fingers at us and putting F.E.A.R (False Evidence Appearing Real) into our minds by making us believe it is our fault has expired. No! It is not our fault. It never was!
Their time of nasty insults has expired. They fail to realize we catch every nasty word and throw back the insult to show we can give as good as we get.
Their time of preying off vulnerable women who have to "make a deal" to get a higher position they earned has expired. No! Your "man"ipulation has no effect. We, as women, have full ownership of our minds, bodies, and souls. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

Here and now, you are making a vow to love yourself wholeheartedly. Self-fulfillment is your outer and inner peace. You are loving the change in the wind. You have a sound mind. You are not worried about the things you cannot change. Storms come to clear the air. Your mind is renewed as you gain and fulfill your purpose in life. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

Sweetness peppered with spice. A smidgen of naughtiness with the nice. Toss in some goofiness with the smart. Throw in some strength to support the heart. Cupfuls of love to even it all out and tenaciousness sprinkled in to combat the doubt. Cook over some fire to meld it all in and you've got one good woman underneath this skin. 2012 ~ Jenna Cornell

A woman sacrifices more than she is given, and nobody is willing to take any of the pain that they have caused. Yet she is running at full speed without a break, and her world is crumbling from carrying everyone else's problems. Where are the extended hands? They are nowhere to be found. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

Your story has changed from disappointment to achievement. You've changed the script to love yourself, therefore, love, love, and love yourself more. Accumulate self-love; raise your expectations; value your characteristics, and most importantly, love yourself wholeheartedly
Happiness is precious.
Happiness is courage.
Happiness is patience. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

We have to take up the cross that was left by our Pioneers; they got us as far as they could. It is now our time to take advantage of the tools that were left for us and open the doors of our opportunities as women. We have to lead by example for our little girls and young ladies who will soon take up the torch. We have to show them by our actions that women's opportunities are never-ending. Their assumptions must not take us off-course because our minds are too sharp and powerful to dwell on their insecurities, and we do not have time to stray off track. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

Each sacrifice was a process of change. Your tears changed your perception and they cleansed your soul. Those were survival tears. As you were changing, slowly but surely you were forming a connection as you began to think and analyze - this isn't your life. This isn't you. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

A young lady is supposed to be classy, kind, generous, and respectful. She is told she should not display any anger and/or badmouth her peers. A young lady is told to think 'inside the box' and to limit her expectations because her husband will provide for her in the future.
A young lady is taught to never fuss or complain and to always keep a smile on her face. When a young lady speaks her mind, she is told that she is not acting "ladylike".
When a young lady steps out of her comfort zone to challenge herself to fight for what she wants, she is told she is not acting "ladylike".
When a young lady plays a sport, and at times she may be aggressive, she is told that she is not acting "ladylike"
When a young lady is bossy, she is told to humble herself, because that is not acting "ladylike". Maybe she isn't bossy, maybe she is confident within herself, has high self-esteem and knows she can dare to be different. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

Look deep within your soul and ask yourself - no matter who it concerns - is it worth it?
Is it worth losing your outer and inner peace?
Is it worth your happiness?
Is it worth your sanity?
If they are causing you stress; let them go and cut the cord.
The question that needs to be asked is - who do you love more? Yourself, or making other people happy? ~ Charlena E. Jackson

We accumulate other's people debts and make them our own. As we make them our own, their responsibilities fall solely on us. Now is the time to transfer their debt back into their account and let them figure out how they going to pay off their own debt. We, as women, need to realize we are not responsible for other people's debts, only our own, and we will finally see the load will be a lot lighter. We have to stop making life easy for other people. We give them life, yet they take life from us. We want to live, and it starts with self-fulfillment! ~ Charlena E. Jackson

We live in a cruel world. People are dreadfully cold. I have never seen so many dishonest, selfish and greedy people. They are willing to use others until they get exactly what they want. What makes matters even worse, after they get what they want, they come back and ask for more. Sadly, people do not have any empathy for others. They are like leeches and will suck the blood out of you until you have nothing left. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

A powerful force of women does not have a race or religion. We are human - a powerful human force! ~ Charlena E. Jackson

When I want to explain why empowering girls and women is critical to fighting poverty, I often tell a person's story. It's easier to relate to a personal story than to global data telling us that the majority of the billion people who live on less than $2 per day are women and girls. We are often told to never treat a person like a statistic. ~ Helene D. Gayle

Love abounds against all odds. One thing about love is that it comes with many sacrifices. Its good intentions always reassure you that in order to love someone else, you must be willing to love yourself first. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

Our Pioneers and Trailblazers who dared to make the journey into the unknown have given us the courage to break out of our comfort zone to dare to be unique, magnificent, phenomenal; and have set ideals to stand for the power of truth. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

No, you are not perfect. What's important is that you know your self-worth and you are happy, and that's all that matters. You now know that you should never underestimate your ability to create your own happiness.
Loving yourself first is the foundation that you should never take for granted. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

When it rains, it pours but that isn't a bad thing. Take advantage of the rain as it washes away all of the residues that the side effects left behind. As you confront your side effects, walk with pride, do not turn back, face them head-on. Nothing can faze you now because the rain is clearing your path. After the rain has washed away the side effects, their powers are watered down. Therefore, they can no longer interrupt your peace, kill your joy or steal your happiness.
The side effects' time has expired. It is time to put an end once and for all to carrying everyone's dirty load. Leave them where they lie. Let them figure out their own messes and bad decisions.
Take a breather and let it go. I bet the load is so much lighter! ~ Charlena E. Jackson

What is love? It is the essence of the unknown and will overwhelm you if you do not realize you are giving too much of yourself."

-Charlena E. Jackson ~ Charlena E. Jackson

When a young lady no longer plays with baby dolls or toy kitchens, and she's trying to find where she fits in today's society, she is told she needs to learn how to cook, clean, wash, and provide for her husband and family. Why is that so? ~ Charlena E. Jackson

As a woman, you are always empowering others and helping people out of their situations. The time has come, and the time is now, for you to take charge of your own journey. It doesn't matter how young or how old you are. It is time for you to freefall into giving yourself a chance at love, and the first person you should fall in love with is yourself. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

A young lady is taught to never fuss or complain, and to always keep a smile on her face. When a young lady speaks her mind, she is labeled as being impolite and is told to be cautious and mindful of what she says. Something to think about... ~ Charlena E. Jackson

You might not see it now, but you are stronger than you can ever imagine.
You cannot become comfortable in your pain. You have to let the pain that you feel turn you into a rose without thorns. There are sixteen pieces on the chess board. The king is the most important piece, but the difference is that the queen is the most powerful piece!
You are a queen, you can maneuver around your opponents; they do not have the power over your life, your mind or soul. You might think you've been a prisoner, but that is your past' Look in the now and work your way to how you want your future to be. Exercise your thoughts into a pattern of letting go, and think positively about more of what you want than what you do not want.
Queen!
You are a queen! As a matter of fact, you are the queen! Act as if you know it!
You are powerful, determined, strong, and you can make the biggest and most extravagant move and put it into action.
Lights, camera, strike a pose and own it!
It is yours to own! ~ Charlena E. Jackson

Groundbreaker! Stomp the ground and make your mark. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

Our roots run deep and are strong to the core.
I am proud to see women taking a stand. Many times, we have been fallen warriors; there have been plenty of times we have been wounded warriors, but we are still standing. We are standing up for our rights. We are standing up for a cause. We are standing up for movements that empower us to be heard, respected and appreciated!
We are bold!
We are courageous!
We are thankful!
We are grateful!
We are blessed! ~ Charlena E. Jackson

I wonder why a woman has to work one hundred times harder than her male counterparts. Every time I look around, I see that a woman has to prove to people that she is worthy of the same respect and appreciation that others receive. Why is it that a woman has to compromise her self-worth to please other people and make them happy? Is that fair? ~ Charlena E. Jackson

I decided to choose:
No more sadness because of how someone else will feel.
No more hiding my feelings.
No more avoiding the truth of how I felt.
No more unresolved situations.
No more letting people rob me of my happiness and joy and letting life pass me by.
No more misery and selling myself short.
No more letting people take and steal my inner peace.
No more giving a shit about what other people think of me - they are going to form their opinion anyway - and the question is, who cares? Not me. That's the least of my worries.
No more giving everyone the best of me. It is time for me to fall in love with myself and give myself ALL of me! ~ Charlena E. Jackson

I never understood why a woman's strength, character and hard work are underestimated. A woman has to prove herself to be worthy in just about everything she does. When it comes to her relationships such as friendship, marriage, being a mother, daughter, sister, and a co-worker, someone will find fault in what she does because nothing is ever good enough. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

If we succeed in empowering girls, we'll succeed in everything else. ~ Desmond Tutu

Our pioneers gave us a head start. They prepared us to fight many battles for decades to come as they left the map for us to continue on the path of their greatness. As quoted by the great Susan B. Anthony, "Oh, if I could but live another century and see the fruition of all the work for women! There is so much yet to be done."
The shade of our skin might be a bit darker or lighter, but we share the same rejections and discriminations as we are treated unfairly because we are women. Our religions might very well be different; however, we share the same identity, being females productively working for change for a greater cause. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

Wake up! Become more aware and alive of what feeds YOUR soul without seeking permission from others. Many curve balls have been thrown. Don't hesitate - NOW is the time to hit a home run. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

A woman is a visionary. She gathers great strength through the hardest challenges. She suits up for the battles that are set before her and executes them without hesitation. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

It's time to stop allowing people to blame the woman for everything. As women, we try to figure out what they need, what they want; and the entire time we're stressing ourselves out and they don't give a shit as long as it's done. Hell, no. Timeout for that too! We do not give a rat's ass anymore - they are quick to blame us for their mess-ups and think we are supposed to make magic happen. It is time to let them deal with it and figure out how they are going to mend their shit. If they want to blame us, let them, who cares? Their shit isn't our problem.
Go ahead, blame the women. We are holding up the peace sign, smiling and laughing, feeling good as we press forward!
​We are free and feel refreshed. It feels good to be the last ones standing. We look at life totally differently, and we now see that it's okay to be a little rough around the edges. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

A woman lives under pressure on a daily basis. Nearly every day a woman is being criticized for the way she looks, thinks, acts, how she raises her children and her role in the workplace. She is criticized by other women, her husband and/or significant other, her children, family, and friends. Goodness gracious, when will a woman's love ever be good enough?
She's constantly beaten down by being told what she's doing wrong, and barely hears what she has done right. Needless to say, she isn't praised for her accomplishments; often, all she hears is criticism. I would love to see the detractors walk in her shoes for a while. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

As women, we have come a long way but the struggle is real and our hunger is stirring up the right to be treated equally regardless of age, religion, race, and or which "group" we belong to. There is so much more that needs to be done but if we continue to come together as women instead of being each other's enemies, filled with the rage of envy and competition, we will be able to move further along a lot faster than expected. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

The darkness wasn't negative energy, it was healing - it balanced my soul. It helped me to trust whatever unfolded and to believe and have faith in what I couldn't see. It prepared me for the battles that I wasn't prepared for. They sneaked up on me and revealed themselves without notice. When obstacles jumped out at me without warning, I knew I wasn't alone. My faith was improving during the darkest hours of my life. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

Trailblazer, you are a warrior! At times, are you underestimated? There were so many sacrifices you made, and afterward, you felt like pure shit. The resentment pulled and spread like mold, and the mold's side effects made you sick and disgusted from loving so hard and losing so much. The ripple effects crossed each other as they manipulated your mind to think negative thoughts. However, the ripple effects also opened your heart to feel and know how to love yourself. As you started your journey of self-fulfillment, all the hell you've been through changed you from a fallen warrior into a fearless powerful force with fabulous potential! ~ Charlena E. Jackson

Take the needle off the record that keeps playing the same song. A full range of potential is headed your way with new discoveries that are going to take you places you only dreamt of. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

You've learned that when it comes to some people, nothing would ever good enough. You have to be willing to accept that you loved them to the best of your ability, and only lost someone who caused you to lose more of yourself. Those people aren't worth saving because the question is, who will save you? ~ Charlena E. Jackson

Education is very important. The more education a woman has the more she is looked down upon. Nothing comes easy for a woman, and that is why she is tough. She has to earn everything she works hard for - that's fine, and honestly, it isn't an issue. Hard work grooms a woman to be a powerful force. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

After we become a daughter, we become a wife to our husbands and a mother to our children. I believe that is why a woman smiles through the pain because she was always told what she couldn't or shouldn't do. Regardless of this, she believed in herself and made it happen. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

Love is filled with a lot of sacrifices and resentment and is underestimated in so many ways. It is something of a Catch-22 and an overwhelming source of empowerment. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

As a single mother, I feel like I carry the weight of the ocean on my shoulders trying to keep my head above water to keep from drowning. I try to stand firm as I dig my toes in the sand, but the troubling waves tend to wash the sand away from under my feet. I lose my balance, but I have to make the best of what I am given; take a leap of faith and start swimming. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

It's a SELF-LOVE thing... I LIKE, LOVE, and CELEBRATE myself. ~ Stephanie Lahart

As a woman, you walk into all kinds of unknown situations that cause you to fall in love, put someone else's needs before your own, and make unbelievable sacrifices. As time goes by, falling in love has its consequences. You fall in love with your mate, children, family, and job. However, you do not receive a fraction of what you have given in return. Sadly, nobody sees you are beyond exhausted. They want you to go, go and go without complaining.
If they carefully pay attention and think about it; when was the last time they saw you smile, truly smile? When was the last time they saw you happy, truly happy? When was the last time they offered to help you, as opposed to asking could you do this or that? When was the last time they gave you a moment to breathe? ~ Charlena E. Jackson

Children fail to realize that a mother doesn't have to provide their "wants". Her bags are heavy because they are filled by everyone's "wants". There isn't one "want" in the bags a mother is carrying that belongs to her. She looks past her self-fulfillment. She feels as though her wants and needs are not important; therefore, they are never on the list.
Children cannot see past their selfish ways. By law, a parent is supposed to provide shelter, food, clothing, make sure their children attend schools and have their annual health checkups. A mother isn't required to put her children in extracurricular activities; that is a choice.
Friends come and go; a marriage may last or fail, but once you're a mother there is no such thing as divorcing your children. Being a mother is the hardest job ever; it is "till death do you part". As a mother, you try your best to make sure your children do not make the same mistakes that you did. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

For far too long, the female gender has been plagued with stereotypes, typecasting, as well as, subtle and blatant discrimination. ~ Asa Don Brown

When the side effects knock you down, find the strength to get up, because you are a soldier. You've paid your dues, and nobody can hurt you because your foundation is solid.
You are not broken down anymore. The Grim Reaper cannot steal your joy. You are no longer its victim. You are victorious, feeling good and living free! The 'treatment' gave you a turbocharge to find a cure. The cure is to love yourself more and to put yourself first. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

The young lady was once a rose without thorns because she was taught how to take care of everyone else, as opposed to taking care of herself. After the betrayals, hurt, pain and bitterness, she becomes a rose with thorns. However, the thorns pricked and scared her, because she was groomed to be what other people wanted her to be. Now she has to learn how to handle the thorns of life on her own.
As the thorns grow thicker and sharper, her personality changes; she is now labeled as bitter, quick-tempered, and a bad influence on others because her attitude has changed. Sad to say, the same people who molded her to be the "perfect" young lady, are the ones who are back-biting her. They fail to realize it was their doing. Everyone should be born with thorns so that they are entitled to make mistakes and learn from them. They will know how it feels to love, to be loved, and to know how to heal if love doesn't work out accordingly. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

However, the love you gave wasn't in vain; it helped you to become a better person. The loss opened your eyes to see that you deserve so much better. It is alright to cry. You are finding your strength and you are beginning to find the voice within. You are special. You are unique. You are loved. There's no need to be afraid. Life is a journey! You will make it. It's okay to let go of the loss and count it all pure joy! ~ Charlena E. Jackson

When I let go of everyone's problems and focused on me, I gained a lot of knowledge about myself I didn't know. I finally realized the definition of peace, joy, love, and happiness. When I started to give more to myself, I learned to love myself wholeheartedly.
Most importantly, I learned that nobody would love me more than I love myself. I am the only person who will love hard on me. Therefore, I learned how to live in a self-fulfilling mode, and I wouldn't have it any other way! ~ Charlena E. Jackson

Your life as a Trailblazer begins at the limit of your comfort zone. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

Another one bites the dust. I am reaping the benefit of self-fulfillment and self-control. I am worthy of all the good things in life. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

As they throw more stones, let them fall where they may. In my opinion, the more rings in the ripple effect the better! Needless to say, they are giving you the opportunity to exchange their hate, backbiting, and negative energy into valuing and loving yourself more. They are helping you create a thicker skin as you find your happiness and you embrace a fruitful future.
​This is your moment. You are coming into a time of peace and fulfillment. Take it all in! You put up with a lot of people's shit to get where you are today. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

Sacrifices and resentments leave a woman standing on the edge, but she doesn't have the nerve to look down or jump. As a woman struggles through the days trying to soothe the hurt, but every time she turns around it spreads like wildfire. She is left alone in the middle of a crisis. As women, we ask ourselves over and over again, how long do I have to wait? When will the torture end? ~ Charlena E. Jackson

Love will show you that you do not have to search for it because it abides in you whole-heartedly. Love can be bittersweet but its grace is patience. Love is difficult but its mercy is tender. At times love might make you feel empty but you are never alone. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

Dear Fallen Warrior, you will not fall apart. Not all wars are meant to have weapons. Your armor is your mind, peace, happiness, drive–and your life. You are powerful! You are unique! You are a warrior because you are the chosen one!! ~ Charlena E. Jackson

Why can't a young lady, learn how to cook, clean and wash clothes so she can learn how to take care of herself? It is imperative that a young lady should know how to love and take care of herself first before she feels she can love and take care of anyone else.
That is where the mistakes begin. A young lady is brought up to put others first. This is when a woman grows up and plays the fool for others because her self-worth was never built on solid ground. Instead, it was built on being a "people pleaser" and putting her life on the back burner.
Consequently, her feelings didn't matter, and her thoughts didn't exist because for so long she was taught to put other people before herself. The question that is never asked is, what happens when a woman (who was once a young lady groomed to give every ounce of herself) loses herself to the point where she has to find a way to dig herself out of the deepest hole? This seems impossible. She doesn't know how because she wasn't ever taught how to express her feelings, troubles, and/or grieve. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

Discipline is key when you're working on self-fulfillment. Therefore, you must stay on course. Success is an 'inside job' because it starts with working on yourself first before you can reap any benefits. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

The poor girl liked to be thought clever, but she hated to be thought bookish; she used to read in secret and, though her memory was excellent, to abstain from showy reference. She had a great desire for knowledge, but she really preferred almost any source of information to printed page; she had an immense curiosity about life and was constantly staring and wondering. She carried herself with a great fund of life, and her deepest enjoyment was to feel the continuity between the movements of her own soul and agitations of the world. ~ Henry James

It is time to stop a young woman from being manipulated to break her ass and tear herself down to the core in order to build a man up. Once she builds him up, more than half the time he leaves her to figure out the million-piece puzzle of life. Wow! It never amazes me how men forget who was there for them when they didn't have a damn thing to their name. It's a timeout for that! ~ Charlena E. Jackson

It's about empowering girls, You're gonna have bad boyfriends and best friends-turned-enemies. You need to be yourself, you need to work hard, and you'll get there. ~ Lauren Conrad

During one of my biggest struggles, the ripple effect was at its worst. I felt as though the ripple was going to turn into a whirlpool – to the point where I thought I was going to drown. My head was under the water and my hands were reaching for something to hold on to. Sadly, there wasn't anyone or anything I could take hold of. However, when I trusted the waves, they carried me to a peaceful place in my mind, to the hidden aspects of my true self where I could explore my options. I had to find comfort in what was given and make the best of it. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

A woman's strength and character shouldn't ever be underestimated, although time and time again women are taken for granted. A woman has a choice; just like anyone else on this earth - she doesn't have to give her all for her family, friends, or co-workers.
Women are human, just like everyone else. However, a woman is treated as though she's not. It is beyond ridiculous that a woman always has to justify her actions in lengthy detail in every situation and the person she encounters. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

Darkness, also represent truth - I notice there are a lot of people in the world today whose true colors come out in their darkest hours. They are good at hiding in the light because they are afraid the darkness will unveil their fear and who they truly are as a person.
If darkness didn't exist, the stars and the moon wouldn't be able to shine. The stars give me hope; as they shine so brightly, I know my blessings will shine even brighter. Embrace the darkness; it will give you well-needed rest, and as you walk out into the light the sun will complement your renewed strength. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

Sadly, a lot of things took a turn for the worse in my life, but they taught me a lesson. They helped me to become the person who I am today. In my late thirties, I am learning so much about myself; and still learning. I am so in love with myself more than I've ever been! I feel free and at peace. Life is good! It is getting better and better every day! ~ Charlena E. Jackson

Change gives you the courage to look at your past without any regrets. Change says your past made you stronger and wiser and is getting you ready to emerge from hibernation. It is preparing you to never comprise your self-worth and to take everything at face value. Take a breather. Don't underestimate your ability to create your own happiness. Your journey starts when you begin to love (Y.O.U.) Yourself. Over. Unhappiness. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

A woman's strength is unstoppable as she takes on the loads she is given in life. We, as women, shouldn't ever underestimate our ability. We are warriors, and if it wasn't for our great strength of perseverance, what would the world be like today?
We have to learn how to put ourselves first. We have to stop cheating ourselves by putting other people's needs first, and our needs and wants last. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

We are Trailblazers!
Our Shero's used their brains to spark the flame.
We, as women, have to learn we cannot always do everything alone; coming together as one produces greatness as we lay the foundation together.
All women are Trailblazers who've put in the work, and as we all know, nothing comes easy. Therefore, the time and hard work we've invested is ours that we earned; because it most definitely wasn't given.
Trailblazers, we must own our lives, filter out what doesn't serve us, and stand firm for what we believe in.
Our voices are beautiful and powerful! ~ Charlena E. Jackson

A woman is always being taken advantage of in so many situations. To add insult to injury, people always try to belittle a woman - as if her opinion doesn't matter - and people feel that they can manipulate a woman as if she's naïve and clueless. Other people will steal a woman's idea as if they came up with it on their own. It makes my skin crawl when a woman is told to step aside and keep quiet as if her voice doesn't deserve to be heard, and we all know that women don't receive as many opportunities as their male counterparts. However, opportunities are endless, and when a woman is given a chance, she makes it a personal mission to execute by always being the seeker and observer. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

If women come together, we will be the answer to perfect harmony. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

There are too many women who haven't had the chance to fall in love with themselves. Your sacrifices weren't for nothing. Each sacrifice you made was by choice to help others as you put them first. With each sacrifice that you made, you took chances, and the uphill battles of carrying the weight on your shoulders toned your core. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

Tell yourself, I know why I am here. I know why I am alive. Be honest with yourself and be open to how you want your life to feel. Feeling new, refreshed and learning how to love again. You deserve to smile.
All the pain was wearing you down. The battles left you shattered and broken. There were times you were stumbling, but you didn't fall. Each tear you cried brought you to this moment. Your scars gave you strength to heal, and they taught you how to love and appreciate yourself.
You rose above it all! ~ Charlena E. Jackson

There are stages in life that you must go through to find out the true value of your worth. I learned that nobody knows your worth but you. Nobody will value you more than yourself. People will treat you according to how much you can take.
Do you know how much can you take? Do you know your limits?
I had to go through hell and beyond to answer both questions. When I look back, I ask myself, who's to blame? ~ Charlena E. Jackson

My character was tested because I didn't think I would have to compromise so much of who I was as a person. I changed so much because I gave so much of me and lost myself in the process. Sadly, when I lost myself, I did not notice. It just happened; it was more of a habit I formed to adjust. I was damaged from the inside out because my life wasn't mine anymore. I was someone I had to be; not who I wanted to be. I wasn't someone that made "me" happy. I made everyone else happy, and it wasn't enough.

Losing yourself is scary. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

I am so honored to join the company of a roster as celebrated and diverse as Covergirl's. I can't wait to share some of my own beauty tips with fans and work alongside Covergirl to continue empowering girls and women to celebrate their individuality. ~ Zendaya

When a woman is independent, that's also a huge issue. I have noticed that an independent woman is spoken down to because she is fearless, free, and she would rather walk alone because she knows her worth. Ladies, there is nothing wrong with that! ~ Charlena E. Jackson

As a woman, it's hard to stay grounded when every time you think you are doing something right, someone wants to pull up the roots you took so long to plant. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

A woman is mistreated and disrespected on so many levels, yet she is the one who makes the curves in the road straight. She is the one who smoothes the bumpy road. When a woman loves; she loves hard, and when she loves hard, she loves deeply from within the core of her soul. Yet, she is never appreciated. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

After you give yourself the chance to get to know yourself, love on yourself, and finally put yourself first, you'll be like a kid in the candy store, because your life is so sweet. This is because you've accepted your flaws, you've learned how to say no without regret, you're giving yourself so much attention and are loving yourself to the moon and back.
You are in your 'Ahah' moment, and goodness gracious, you are in the zone where nobody can interrupt your inner peace. As others' houses of cards fall down, you press forward because that isn't your problem. You are taking happy steps, your mind is on cruise control, and you've created a new and improved plan for your life. Life is good! ~ Charlena E. Jackson

The ripple effect is change. Eventually, the rings of the ripples change; they either become smaller or wider in length. No matter the size, sooner or later, the ripple will vanish, but the question is - did it leave an effect or was it pointless?
What impact does the ripple effect have on you? Will you reach for great heights, or will you let the ripple effect's "purpose" pass you by? ~ Charlena E. Jackson

You've lived and learned that timing is everything. Time is precious. Your birthright is happiness, love, peace, and joy. As you travel the road of life, you now know when to pay attention. You now know your worth, and as you walk down the path without fear, you are learning more and more about yourself than you have ever known. No matter how old you are - you are learning the fundamentals of life forces that will help guide you along the way. You are learning that there's no need for a flashlight because the love you have for yourself is shining so brightly that everyone notices as you walk past them. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

Fallen warriors, you might fall, but you are like eagles! You work effortlessly as you soar high into the clouds. You ride the winds of change as you gather all of your strength, courage, and patience. You develop wisdom during your challenges of transformation while you tear down your boundaries one obstacle at a time. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

Happiness is never giving up on your dreams. They told me that I would never get to tell my story but I am stronger than I knew. Their voices were poison. I wasn't going to let them steal my joy. There was no way in hell I was going to let them write my beginning or ending. The chapters in my life are going to be told by the person who lived it, and that's me. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

You do not have to accept the approval of others. Honestly, who gives a shit, because their lives are messed up, too. They are always going to judge because they are keeping an eye on your accomplishments. Therefore, they are always going to have something to talk about because you are doing something right.
You look at your life and ask, why are they so jealous; I do not have anything they want. Oh, yes ma'am you have everything they want. And it starts with who you are as a person. They want to be you.
They want your strength.
They want your courage.
They want your confidence.
They want your stride.
And they want your joy. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

Our minds are creative and knowledgeable.
Yet time and time again, our needs and wants fell on deaf ears. We were told we weren't good enough. We were abused mentally, physically, and emotionally. We were told with nasty sarcastic remarks at times, and here and there maybe a laugh that made the insult worse; "It would be your word against mine, and guess who they are going believe? Not you."
One by one we took a chance to speak up, but our voices weren't heard. They tried to make us feel threatened; as if we were going to lay down and be stepped on like shit on the bottom on their shoe. We interrupted their comfort zone and showed them their time was up! ~ Charlena E. Jackson

You are claiming what is yours, and that is a prosperous life. A prosperous life of peace, joy, love, happiness, inspiration, creativity, hope and guidance. Although it was taken from you because you were brainwashed to put others first, you have found your birthright. Having a prosperous life has always been your birthright! ~ Charlena E. Jackson

Unapologetic for My Flaws and ALL! ~ Charlena E. Jackson

Most importantly, a little girl should be taught that she should love herself first, flaws (thorns) and all. However, she's been raised as a rose without knowing how to handle the pricks from the thorns. She's left alone to learn how to heal. ~ Charlena E. Jackson

This transformation helped me to become productive and my mindset became focused on change for the better. My identity was the essence of me, and the path without fear was ahead of me as I walked, knowing that happiness, grace, joy, and love were my birthright! ~ Charlena E. Jackson

Your True Self is who you are, and always have been in God ... The great surprise and irony is that "you," or who you think you are, have nothing to do with its original creation or its demise. It's sort of disempowering and utterly empowering at the same time, isn't it? All you can do is nurture it. ~ Richard Rohr

Every achievement, big or small, begins in your mind. ~ Mary Kay Ash

You need not be sorry for her. She was one of the kind that likes to grow up. In the end she grew up of her own free will a day quicker than the other girls. ~ J.M. Barrie

Just being at home, growing up naturally, and being here now with my video and my music, I think people realize that I was in the Spice Girls 8 years ago. ~ Emma Bunton

He cannot do anything deliberate now. The strain of his whole weight on his outstretched arms hurts too much. The pain fills him up, displaces thought, as much for him as it has for everyone else who has ever been stuck to one of these horrible contrivances, or for anyone else who dies in pain from any of the world's grim arsenal of possibilities. And yet he goes on taking in. It is not what he does, it is what he is. He is all open door: to sorrow, suffering, guilt, despair, horror, everything that cannot be escaped, and he does not even try to escape it, he turns to meet it, and claims it all as his own. This is mine now, he is saying; and he embraces it with all that is left in him, each dark act, each dripping memory, as if it were something precious, as if it were itself the loved child tottering homeward on the road. But there is so much of it. So many injured children; so many locked rooms; so much lonely anger; so many bombs in public places; so much vicious zeal; so many bored teenagers at roadblocks; so many drunk girls at parties someone thought they could have a little fun with; so many jokes that go too far; so much ruining greed; so much sick ingenuity; so much burned skin. The world he claims, claims him. It burns and stings, it splinters and gouges, it locks him round and drags him down…

All day long, the next day, the city is quiet. The air above the city lacks the usual thousand little trails of smoke from cookfires. Hymns rise from the temple. Fa ~ Francis Spufford

Girls and women are most victimised in societies where boys and men are disempowered. ~ Jacqueline Novogratz