As I reflect on my journey, I’m reminded of the profound changes that unfolded when I decided to leave my condo—a place that once held immense pride as my first home as a single woman. For three years, it was my sanctuary, my haven of independence. But little did I know, a higher calling awaited me.
Around the first anniversary of surrendering my life to God, I felt an inexplicable urge to move, yet the destination remained unknown. I embarked on a quest that took me from Colorado to Palm Springs, from Texas to places far and wide.
On May 3rd, 2023, I accepted an offer on my condo that would put my faith to the test. Despite my yearning to start anew, I couldn’t help but feel a pang of hesitation. Everyone could see the unhappiness etched on my face, except when I was filming my weekly “Dose of Doris” episodes. Seeking advice from the Department of Real Estate and consulting with an attorney, I moved forward with the deal, even as my pride seemed to be stripped away. Little did I know, this was God’s way of guiding me, of knowing what was best for my journey. It was time to be released from the wilderness that had become my life.
For nearly three months, I found myself bouncing between my sister’s house in Colorado and my mother’s home, an unexpected journey that allowed me to confront her narcissistic tendencies and the lifelong scars of childhood abuse. God places us where we need to be and for how long, allowing the healing process to begin. During this time, I embarked on a life-changing trip to LA, believing that this was my chance to fast-track my destiny, to be discovered, and make up for lost time. However, my dreams were met with frustration, confusion, and misery. It was as if I had stepped into a personal hell.
Despite the nagging intuition that told me not to proceed, I kept moving forward, selling everything I owned and driving straight to LA. Upon meeting my new landlord, I sensed a darkness that told me I had made a grave mistake. Three weeks later, I severed my lease, paying a hefty price of $6,400 to regain my freedom.
Returning to my roots, I discovered that God had prepared something far grander for me than I could have ever imagined. My current home has brought me closer to my church, Brave in San Ramon, and it’s leading me toward a new chapter in my life. I sense change on the horizon, and I welcome it with open arms.
Looking back, I can confidently say that I never took my eyes off God or the promise that was etched into my heart. This journey has been a testament to faith, resilience, and the unwavering belief that, in the end, everything falls into place according to a divine plan.
__________________________________________
Style Details
Vtg 1950’s Velvet Gown, similar style on Etsy here
Vtg Rhinestone Earrings, similar here
Foundation CHANEL, Lipstick MAC Cosmetics
Charlotte Tilbury Luxury Eyeshadow Palette here
CND Nail Polish here
Home Décor Details
Laureano 85″ Rolled Arm Chesterfield Sofa, Wayfair
Glass & Metal Rectangular Coffee Table, here
Reclaimed Pine Kitchen Table, similar here
Comforter Set, similar here
Paint color c/o BEHR
In the heart of every individual, there exists a yearning for something more,
a sense that life holds greater depths waiting to be explored. This sentiment rings especially true for a young girl who intuitively sensed that her existence was meant for more than what met the eye.
With unwavering determination, she embarked on a journey, a quest to unearth the hidden treasures life had in store for her. Little did she know, life was also eagerly seeking her out, offering a path that would lead her from darkness to a radiant, newfound light.
In her pursuit, she encountered moments of uncertainty, but she pressed on. There was a whisper in her soul that reassured her, guiding her along a path that would eventually reveal her true purpose.
As she ventured further into the shadows, she didn’t bow her head in regret; instead, she did so in faith. With each step taken, she felt the presence of something greater, a force that had been with her all along. She realized that she was not alone on this transformative journey; indeed, she carried a divine spark within her.
Just as a potter molds clay into a beautiful vessel, so did she feel the hands of the divine shaping her destiny. The life she once knew began to dissolve, making way for a rebirth that was both profound and awe-inspiring.
In the cocoon of darkness, she shed her old self, emerging from her trials and tribulations as a new being. With a heart full of faith and a soul ablaze, she embraced her divine connection, knowing that the light she had always sought was, in truth, the light that had always been within her.
___________________________
Black Sweetheart Dress, similar style here
Diamond Cross Necklace, similar here
Foundation CHANEL, Lipstick MAC Cosmetics
Nail Polish, Red-Carpet Manicure
There comes a time in everyone’s life to move on, from outdated patterns, habits and even versions of oneself.
I am one that is very familiar with the the process of transformation as my entire life has been a series of deaths and rebirth (figural speaking) with the last two years being pivotal in my soul’s evolution.
Nothing will ever prepare you for the journey of finding home, however it is a personal quest that will have you feeling a sense of safety, a feeling of returning home. The question I’ve often had is, why did this spiritual journey feel like home? The only thing I continuously find myself aligning with is that the soul always wins.
For me this meant becoming one with God never feeling separated knowing when I walk, he walks too. It also dealt with me discovering the internal god that is inside of me and sitting in stillness with that part that many of us often neglect. Through this I have experienced a spiritual resonance, where I have vibrated on a level that has allowed me to access a deep healing within my soul?
Some of us have homes. And some of us have a spiritual home. A place where the soul soars, a deep and calm presence is surrendered to, and fear no longer exists. Some of us are blessed to return home.
___________________________
Vintage Gold Dress, similar styles found on Etsy
Pearl Earrings, similar here
Foundation CHANEL, Lipstick MAC Cosmetics
Nail Polish, Red-Carpet Manicure
Images as seen in Retro Lovely Magazine
Location c/o Charleen Earley, Brentwood CA
richinlovefashion.com 