Written by Dr. Kim Johnson

I’m sitting here thinking about how far I’ve come, from that little girl who dropped out of high school to the woman who now holds a doctoral degree. From not feeling smart enough to sitting in awe of what I’ve accomplished. I know that if my mother were alive, she would be so proud of me.

There were moments when the road felt too hard, times I doubted my worth, questioned my ability, and wondered if I was doing any of it right. I carried the weight of past mistakes, the silence of rooms where I didn’t feel like I belonged, and the fear that maybe I wasn’t meant for more. But God had other plans.

This degree isn’t just about books or classrooms, it’s about persistence. It’s about reclaiming the narrative that tried to count me out. It’s proof that even when the odds are stacked against you, determination and faith can break barriers.

To anyone who feels like giving up, don’t. Your journey may look different, but your breakthrough is just as real. Keep moving, even if it’s slowly. Your future self will thank you. And if you’ve ever felt like your past disqualified you, let my story remind you: your past doesn’t define you, it prepares you.

I hope my mother sees me now, and I hope she knows, I kept going.

The Bible tells us, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” ~Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭28‬‬ (NIV)

Brothers and Sisters do you hear me? What are your stories?