… I don’t have a medical degree, but I do have a PhD in Survival. This is lived experience, not a doctor’s orders—take the tools, but keep your therapist on speed dial and use prayer as your anchor. Throughout my life, I’ve navigated different layers of abuse—often, and most painfully, from the very people who were supposed to be my protectors. When we face these experiences, our nervous systems often default to one of four survival patterns: Fight, Flight, Freeze, or Fawn. Fight: Irritability or control. Flight: Avoiding or staying busy. Freeze: Feeling stuck or numb. Fawn: People-pleasing to stay safe. These are trauma responses, not character flaws. They are your brain’s way of keeping you alive in a world that felt unsafe. While they are natural, they are often reactive rather than proactive. For example, I might be at the grocery store when a stranger walks by wearing the same cologne as my perpetrator. Suddenly, I’m not just shopping; I’m transported back. Or, a friend might raise their voice in a simple disagreement, and instead of standing my ground, I immediately start over-apologizing just to keep the peace. In those split seconds, my body defaults to one of the four common trauma responses. Not addressing the underlying issues can lead to symptoms like Anxiety and/or Panic attacks and worsen PTSD symptoms just to name a few. Healing is the journey from blind reactions to calculated responses. Now, you can trade survival mode for a "tool belt" of healthy boundaries, breath work, and grounding techniques. Techniques like the 5-4-3-2-1 method or box breathing aren't just "fluff"—they send physical signals to your nervous system to "switch off" the alarm and reconnect you to the present moment. This helps us to better show up for ourselves and protect our relationships. When you feel triggered, take a breath and remind yourself: "I am not in that danger anymore.” “That past is not my current reality.” “I am safe now." Lastly, but most importantly I have to remind you that the true healing happens at the spiritual level!

I just wanted to shout out my Savior on this special day of remembrance. I had a wonderful time in the Lord today and wanted to share it with you all! 🎶 I got to… Hold on… to your… WORD! 🎶 I pray everyone is staying encouraged. Love you all!

These past few weeks have been rough to say the least. After navigating a family loss, teaching at our Churches Co-Op, facilitating our recent event, leading W.O.O.T. Group, and juggling health and home, I found myself drained spiritually and naturally. For a fleeting moment, my soul whispered 'quit.' I knew at that moment I had to do something… Me being the “strong friend”, I’m usually checking on folks and I struggled to ask for help. So I took a step back, rended my heart and reconnected to the Source of my strength, Jesus! I realized I was trying to do things in my own power. I took a break and allowed myself to breathe, rest, and reflect. A powerful word at church resonated deeply - “Don’t grow weary in your well doing.” It was a reminder that my strength lies not in self-sufficiency, but in His ever-present help. I began to reflect on Gods promises… He won’t put more on me than I can bear! His yoke is easy and his burden is light! His Grace is sufficient! His Strength is made perfect in my weakness! The Joy of the Lord is my Strength! Jesus is my firm foundation. When everything around me feels like chaos, He is my calm in the storm. Blessed be the name of the Lord!

Heartfelt Gratitude for an Uplifting Afternoon! What a powerful way to kick off the year! I am still overwhelmed by the beauty and fellowship we shared at our Pray, Praise & Paint event on January 31st. To the members of W.O.O.T., thank you for showing up with such open hearts and vibrant spirits. Seeing each of you express your faith through art while we lifted our voices in praise was a reminder of why this nonprofit exists. Our testimonies aren’t just spoken—they are painted, lived, and shared. Special shout out to The Art Shelf, Minneapolis: Thank you for providing such a wonderful, creative sanctuary for us to gather. I was truly blessed that our very own Elect Lady Lockhart honored with her presence. Thank you for your continued support, your prayers, and for covering us with your grace during this event. To every member who attended: your energy is the heartbeat of W.O.O.T. I am so grateful to walk this journey of faith and sisterhood with you all. With love and blessings, Sis Keiana Founder, Word Of Our Testimony

I’m curious… what are some personal goals or projects you guys are working on? Is anyone in school! Any exciting life events coming up? I’d love to hear about it! I personally have my hands full working on the finishing touches for Pray, Praise & Paint. I am super excited to hang out with you all!