I am a leader in an organization called Grit & Glitz.  It is a networking community for local women, many of whom are involved in small business or leadership in the community. Our goal was to not hide the grit/hard work that it takes to get to the pretty outcome. It takes a lot of behind the scenes effort to get to the picture worthy post. So I wrote this as an encouragement to them and anyone else who needs to hear it.

You want to talk about Grit...I've experienced a whole new level of it. When my house burned and everything was destroyed, I had two choices. Be broken from my tragedy or rise from the ashes, literally. I thought I had some grit just being a mom of boys, but it takes you to a whole new level when you have to drag them out of the ashes with you.

Since we lost almost everything in the fire, people have blessed us with clothing and other things that we need to try to get back to a normal life. One of the shirts that a lady had made for me says G.R.I.T.

GUTS. RESILIENCE. INITIATIVE. TENACITY.

That is exactly what it takes to walk through the rubble that was my safe place. Most of you won't experience my literal ashes but you will face many different roadblocks. It is going to take G.R.I.T. to face them and overcome but you are not in this life alone. God is always there and He has surrounded us with people who can support us along the way. You still have to dig in your heels and walk the road before you, but don't let it break you.

Keep Going!