Woman Warrior

Deborah’s Song

I march onward with a fragile face,

Knowing that my God has carved me in this place.

To the world—a woman—weak and soft.

To my God—a vessel—a precious gem he has taught.

My long hair, unlikely, flutters in the wind.

But, I know it was me that my God did send.

Feet fastened and secure, I will march with God by my side.

I am confident and at ease for he is my pride!

A banner I fly in sheer purple supreme.

Our trouble and affliction has not gone unseen.

So, I will stand in the twilight and shine his will.

I will kneel in the background and wait on him still.

My shield of faith protects me.

Arrows pass, clouds surround all I see.

I smell the stench of rusty blood,

It engulfs my senses like a flood.

Swords clash against steel.

This battle is authentic—it’s real.

My lips, rosy and ready, are parted with wonder.

My God has ravished my enemies. He has taken their plunder.

My feet follow his anointing. He conquerors evil for me.

In Christ, I am the woman he has made me to be.

Kimi Willingham

Judges 5: 10-11

My heart is with Israel's princes,
       with the willing volunteers among the people.
       Praise the LORD!

You who ride on white donkeys,
       sitting on your saddle blankets,
       and you who walk along the road,
       consider the voice of the singers at the watering places.
       They recite the righteous acts of the LORD,
       the righteous acts of his warriors in Israel. 
       Then the people of the LORD
       went down to the city gates.

Standing Tall…

With backbone erect, I stand tall with steep control.    

Hoping to grow taller and reach my marked goal.

That chalked line seems miles above my outstretched neck,

But, regardless of the distance, I stand tall keeping in check.

I am determined. A woman with a lofty ambition—

To grow in grace and truth—this is my mission.

Eyes fixed on the mark; I aspire and dream great things.

With visions of the supreme, I will soar and rest on His wings.

Excitement cascades from my clothes draped in potential.

Jesus is carrying me—to the mark. His provision is influential.

With chest breathless, I gasp and His air infiltrates my lungs.

Revelation is acquired, from my mouth comes many tongues.

Tears fill my wide eyes, the goal I feared I’d never reach—

Has become a faint star in the distance—a caesura in speech.

Almighty God has triumphed. He has carried this aspirant child.

He has added fuel to this throbbing heart—once meek and mild.  

On tiptoes no longer, but standing tall on solid studded soles,

God has turned my darkness into sunlight.

He has made me whole.

Kimi Willingham

Esther 5: 1-3

Esther's Request to the King

On the third day Esther put on her royal robes and stood in the inner court of the palace, in front of the king's hall. The king was sitting on his royal throne in the hall, facing the entrance. When he saw Queen Esther standing in the court, he was pleased with her and held out to her the gold scepter that was in his hand. So Esther approached and touched the tip of the scepter. Then the king asked, "What is it, Queen Esther? What is your request? Even up to half the kingdom, it will be given you."

Germany--Swan Castle

Swan Castle…is it an ironic name? A swan is seen as a graceful being that glides smooth and sleek across placid water; whereas, a castle typifies strength. It is rock solid and the fortress for the people inside. However, when placed together the name Swan Castle creates a powerful combination. We see it in pictures, majestic, mysterious, and mighty…a mystical castle sprouting from the airy, dense fog. At first glance it’s modest; but, when studied this castle speaks volumes. It is old, well lived at best. Can’t you see the knights and maidens assembled at the drawbridge? A fire flickers from one of the steeples, and while the fire’s glow dances upon the skin of the two lovers, a warm kiss is shared. This was a time of chivalry and respect. The maiden’s soft, golden curls blow in the midnight wind, and the knight’s armor shines in the moonlight. The yellowish green fog rises and lingers around the feet of the two beautiful people. They are enraptured in love, passion, and emotion. Looking into one another’s eyes, they are lost in the moment, caught in the sparkle of glistening pupils. The castle behind them provides them security. The feeling of safety ripples up their bones. The stone fortress does not waver, it does not move in the twilight. It stands quiet and unshakeable—the stone, stronghold that stands as a symbol of strength.

God is our sturdy tower. We, his children, are enchanted everyday by his provision and hand of guidance that intensifies the more we show him adoration and affection. He is a landmark—the unshakeable, unbreakable, everlasting building that stands guard and breathes protection over our lives. He is a God that speaks words of power. David says in Psalm 62:7, “My salvation and honor depend on God; he is my mighty rock, my refuge.” He is the keystone. He holds our lives together. He is the compass in the forest and the water in the dessert. He is the sword when the adversaries encircle and frighten us. We have no need to fear because God will always be that castle we can run into and seek shelter in. “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” Psalm 91: 1

Feel blessed and protected…if your salvation is found in Jesus…you are a child of the King. You can run into the wings of the Almighty and feel comforted. This world is harsh and cruel; however, we can always be revived in the shelter of the Most High God!  For he gives rest to the weary and the faint of heart!

“Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure, because you will not abandon me to the grave, nor will you let your Holy One see decay.” 

 Psalm 16:9-10

  A Woman of Elegance…

 The question was posed to me recently…who is your earthly role model or inspiration? This question stumped me. It made me think days afterward…who was or has been my inspiration? Now, like most girls I said my mother, because she truly is the beautiful example I have longed to follow and become since birth. Her smile, laugh, and insight spill over such wisdom into my life! I also have taken pride in being comfortable in who God made me to be—an individual, a separate thumbprint, a unique blueprint. However, I believe in order to truly become and blossom into a rare rose or exotic flower one needs an earthly example to follow….someone to look at and say, she got it right. I want to study her and live life even better than she did!

I would have to say that I aspire to be a woman of elegance. The definition itself means so many different things: stylishness, grace, sophistication, class, and refinement.  When one thinks of elegance the thought of Princess Diana and Grace Kelly automatically come to mind. Yes, I thought of those two beautiful women as well when I pictured the word elegance. But, what is it about them that make them pristine? Is it their smiles, posture, flawless complexion, crystal clear eyes, look of innocence, submissive nature, and love for others? Yes, I believe it is all of the above. As a woman, I believe we should long to be all of these things.

One does not have to be a princess to possess elegance. It emerges from the inside. It is a heart condition. A woman of class respects herself and the people around her. She is not self-seeking, easily angered, or harsh. Crude words do not come out of her mouth because she knows her vocabulary is much more sophisticated than dirty words used in haste. She speaks slowly and intentionally. She cares about the person and not their status. She is truly interested in investing in the person and does not seek out an individual for private productivity. She is wise and always thinks before she acts. She is cautious, attentive, and assertive.

She knows her potential and walks with her head held high. She is unashamed—for she knows her worth outweighs caves of African diamonds and rubies. Her smile illuminates the room. Her positivity could ignite a flame encased in ice. She is mellow and expresses joy by her spirited countenance. In opposition to popular belief, jewels on the head and a golden scepter are not the defining marks of a genuine woman of elegance. 

Mother Teresa was a woman of elegance. Her face, though weathered and worn possessed character and strength. Her eyes sparkled with the light from above. Kindness flooded her face with irreplaceable exquisiteness. She was a gem in the midst of the chaos around her. She gave her life so that others might have hope. A woman of grace gives hope in the darkness. It is never dark around her for she possesses the light of life in her heart. She spreads this warmth to those around her and ignites faith in the hearts of many. She is an icon—a model for those around her. Yes, this places a picture frame around her life; but, she should enjoy being under observation—for where much is given, much is required.

I long to be this picture of elegance and grace! I want gems to line my spirit and the sparkle of thousands of diamonds to reside in the pupils of my eyes. Let the lace of dignity drape from my gown and my hair flow in the winds of such blessing! I want to place the shoes of this charge on my feet and walk toward this aim—to evolve into a woman of elegance.

The wisest woman you talk with is ignorant of something that you know; but an elegant woman never forgets her elegance.
      - Oliver Wendell Holmes, Sr.

original photo by: Kimi Willingham

original photo by: Kimi Willingham

Have you ever thought of God’s love as wild?!! The word WILD is descriptive without even trying to be. We picture elephants stomping in the distance, shaking the earth with their force. We envision tigers hiding in the bushes, with cat-like stares, their eyes reflect the moonlight. We see lions roaring on the horizon, their manes flowing in the hot, summer air. They are wild. They live without limit. They roam with no boundary. They do as they please. Yes, God’s love is wild. Can’t you see his eyes, piercing through the darkness, spying on your heart, warming your soul!?! Can’t you feel his power parading in the turmoil, shaking the earth, and turning hearts his direction!?! Can’t you sense his mane, brushing up against you, creating a soft protection and barrier of heat!?! Our God is untamed. He stands on the Rock in the desert roaring a battle cry. He has won. He is triumphant. Let up pick up our shields and swords and claim the victory that he has promised! All glory and honor to the King that still reigns!

Psalm 20:5:
“May we shout for joy when we hear of your victory and raise a victory banner in the name of our God. May the Lord answer all your prayers.”

Unshakeable Freedom

By: Kimi Willingham

Viet Nam Memorial: Washington DC

Statues of strength.

Pillars of steel.

Stand in the distance.

They shine on the hill.

Auras of radiance light up the sky.

Faces of people kneel, watch, and cry.

Heartstring emotions float in the air.

Historic meaning these endless stones share.

Commonality is reached--

Through the faces unknown.

Compassion is extended--

To the young and old that groan.

Tears of sweet joy, honor, and respect

Fall and cascade from the monument’s depths.

America, we admire.

In our Father’s footsteps we stand.

We lift up our hands to touch the land.

This is our home, fought in full for the free.

Let us prevail together.

Unshakeable we will be.

I never worry about action, but only about inaction." –Winston Churchill

Today, we had the editor for Human Events come and speak to our National Journalism group. He quoted Winston Churchill. In a passionate voice he said to us, “In wartime, truth is so precious that she should always be attended by a bodyguard of lies.” Mr. Babbin told us to read Churchill’s book, “Gathering Storm: V1” and to absorb all the wisdom this great historical leader had to offer. After the lecture I was curious about Churchill and wanted to read all the powerful quotes that once filled the air around his head. However, I could not get through all of the quotes recorded because this particular one, at the beginning of the post, caught my attention, and I began to think hard on it. In this basic sentence lies a wealth of information.

Often times, we worry about not stepping out or making moves toward pro-activity. We think to ourselves, if only I was more outgoing, confident, brave, and ardent. You end up letting people walk all over you and take up the challenge even though you might just be more competent and knowledgeable for the task at hand. We end up crawling instead of jumping, leaping, or reaching for our dreams that dangle within our grasp. We grow afraid of action, “an exertion of power or force.” We fret over the possibility that we will never move or standout in the world. Churchill suggests that we should not fret over action, but we should be concerned over inaction. This is an interesting thought. I would have to disagree with the famous scholar for two reasons.

1)                          Worrying about inaction will not spur on action. It will stifle it.

The Bible says, in Philippians 4:6-7, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, in prayer and supplication, present your requests to God. And the peace of God shall guard you in Christ Jesus.” As Christians, we are told not to worry. There are many hazards that worrying does to our bodies. One of them is anxiety attacks/panic attacks. According to anxietypanic.com, anxiety is spurred on by overbearing stress. Stress is caused by overwhelming life with unreasonable workloads, fearful thoughts, lack of confidence…etc. The statistics show that in one year about 1/3 of Americans experience at least one panic attack! This percentage is alarming. Why would worrying about inaction benefit our life? Jesus calls us to step out in faith. “Faith is being sure of what we hope for and sure of what we do not see.” (Hebrews 11:1).

2)                          We must think about action in order for it to be implemented into our lives.

Action does not just appear out of the sky. It takes effort to move. It takes making a conscious decision. It may not appear that we think about what leg to move when walking or what hand to use when talking; but, it took practice. The art of riding a bike takes practice. Brilliant musicians do not become brilliant over night. Through passion, proactive goals, and precision a talented musician is birthed. When dealing with the thought of moving forward, we cannot let go of the reigns of our life. We must hold on for dear life. God is going to take us an incredible ride; but we must approach him before he offers a beautiful tour through his mountains of majesty. Jeremiah 29:12 says it powerfully, “.You will seek me and find me when you search for me with all your heart……”

Step out dear one. Think on action. Move toward you Savior. Inaction is not an option. It is the stagnant waterhole. Be ready to ride the waves with the Father. Go forward. Reach out! Act in faith.

A Quiet Stroll

The days pass by like leaves. The wind circles all around.

I walk in quiet twilight and wait, sincere, for sound.

My ears are keen, astute.

I hear a procession--harps and flutes.

Your music fills my senses.

I dance Father...for I'm your princess.

Ribbons in soft, pastel cascade from my hair.

In this sheer happiness. I feel you here.

I celebrate loud and in joyous laughter.

You are victorious. You sing over disaster. 

 Restorer, Creator, Potter, and Maker,

You knead the bread. You are the baker.

I fill myself on the goodness of your being.

This food consumes me. It fastens my seeing.

Eyes lined by waterfalls, shimmering in light.

You will forver be My Beacon of Sight!

Kimi Willingham

Memoir: Irena Sendler

Her wrinkles are rivers of emotions.

Appearances deceive.

Haggard to the pubic,

She wears her heart on her sleeve.

Her mouth curls in an upward fashion,

This is beauty bears her inward passion.

Hair crowned in white splendor, her wisdom abounds.

She places hands on her heart as she recalls the sounds.

Sounds of screams and injustice clout her mind.

With a single tear weeps over the cruelty of mankind.

I was there she whispers in the pit of disaster,

I was hopeless and desperate—in need of a master.

The sights of sweet children being beaten and battered,

Was unsightly and obscene. Their little lives mattered.

To help was not an option at this time,

It was more like a duty—a mountain I was meant to climb.

In the streets of despair, my Jesus was there.

He was my protection, my fortress of defense.

He enabled my body to achieve situations intense.

All glory and honor to the King who rules on high.

He is the bread. All safety will he supply.

I trust in his leading, his prompting, and instruction.

He will never lead me to the gate of destruction.

Kimi Willingham

click to read article:

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080512/ap_on_re_eu/obit_sendler