HOPE
Captured by the artistry of Mitchell Royel, this moment now unfolds through the enchanting melodies of "Who Am I to Say" by Hope—a luminous composition that weaves emotion and elegance into every note.
There’s something I want to talk with you about today. Not at you—but with you. Because hope isn’t something we experience in isolation. It’s relational. It’s the quiet conversation we have with ourselves and each other when everything feels uncertain.
We live in a time that asks a lot of us. The world is complex. Our inner worlds are complex. And somewhere in the middle of all that complexity, we’re trying to figure out what’s possible, what’s worth believing in, what’s worth moving toward.
Here’s what I know: hope isn’t about denying reality. It’s not about toxic positivity or pretending that hard things aren’t hard. Hope is something much more grounded than that. It’s a practice. It’s a choice we make—sometimes moment by moment—to stay open to possibility even when we can’t see the whole path ahead.
We’re Allowed to Want Things
One of the most radical acts we can do is to admit what we actually want. Not what we think we should want. Not what looks good on Instagram or fits the narrative we’ve been told about ourselves. But what we genuinely, deeply desire.
When we do this—when we get honest about our longings—we’re already practicing hope. We’re saying: “I believe my desires matter. I believe my life can be shaped by what I care about.”
This is where hope begins. Not in some distant future. But right here, in the willingness to acknowledge what lights us up.
The Courage in Uncertainty
We talk a lot about certainty as if it’s the goal. But what if uncertainty is actually where our power lives? What if not knowing exactly how things will unfold is the space where we get to choose who we want to be?
We can’t control outcomes. We never could. But we can control our intention. We can control how we show up. We can control whether we’re willing to try, to learn, to adjust, to keep going even when the path isn’t clear.
That’s the kind of hope I’m interested in. The kind that doesn’t require guarantees. The kind that says: “I don’t know how this will work out, and I’m going to move forward anyway because the alternative—giving up on myself—costs too much.”
We’re in This Together
Here’s something I want you to remember: you’re not alone in this. Whatever you’re hoping for, whatever you’re working toward, whatever feels impossible right now—there are others in the same space. We’re all trying to figure it out. We’re all learning how to hope in our own way.
And that matters. Because hope is contagious. When we see someone else believing in themselves, it gives us permission to believe in ourselves too. When we witness someone else moving toward their desires despite fear, it shows us what’s possible.
So let’s be that for each other. Let’s be the ones who say yes to possibility. Let’s be the ones who keep showing up. Let’s be the ones who believe that our lives can be shaped by our choices, our values, and our willingness to stay open.
Your Next Move
I want to leave you with this: What is one thing you’re hoping for right now? Not someday. Not when conditions are perfect. But right now, in this season of your life.
And what’s one small way you could move toward it this week? Not a grand gesture. Just something real. Something that says to yourself: “I believe in this. I believe in me.”
That’s hope in action. That’s us, together, choosing to believe in what’s possible.
The world needs what you have to offer. It needs your hope. It needs your willingness to keep going. And it needs you to know that you’re not doing this alone.
-Mitchell & Ryder (of Gospel Glamour)
Real Recognizes Real
Exquisitely captured by the visionary lens of Mitchell Royel (Pierce College) in 2012, this moment now resonates with the audacious energy of Gucci Gucci by Kreayshawn, a sonic masterpiece that pulses through the frame with contemporary flair and undeniable style.
Darling, let's talk about the most expensive thing you'll never buy: authenticity.
I was standing in a boutique last week, watching a woman agonize over a handbag that cost more than most people's rent. She kept asking the sales associate, "Will people know it's real?" And I thought to myself—honey, the real question is: do YOU know you're real?
Because here's what I've learned after decades of chasing external validation, spiritual bypassing, and yes, even a few designer moments of my own: your soul doesn't give a damn about labels.
Counterfeit Life We're Sold
We live in a world obsessed with proving our worth through things. The right car, the right neighborhood, the right everything. But what happens when we mistake the wrapper for the gift? When we become so focused on looking the part that we forget who we actually are?
I've coached thousands of women who thought they needed to look successful before they could feel successful. They were wearing masks made of logos, speaking in voices that weren't their own, and wondering why they felt so empty despite having everything they thought they wanted.
The truth? Authenticity isn't something you can purchase. It's something you excavate.
Inner Luxury
Real luxury isn't about what you can afford—it's about what you can become. It's the confidence that comes from knowing exactly who you are and refusing to apologize for it. It's the freedom that comes from not needing anyone else's approval to validate your existence.
I remember the day I stopped caring about impressing people who didn't even like themselves. I was at a networking event, surrounded by people name-dropping and status-signaling, and I realized: I'd rather be genuinely me than successfully fake.
That shift? That's where the magic happens.
Real Status Symbols
Boundaries that protect your energy
Values that guide your decisions
Courage to speak your truth
Compassion for yourself and others
Presence that doesn't need to perform
These are the accessories that never go out of style. These are the investments that actually appreciate in value.
Breaking the Spell of Superficial
When you stop trying to impress people who are trying to impress other people, you break free from the most exhausting game on the planet. You realize that the people worth knowing don't care about your handbag—they care about your heart.
Ask yourself:
What would I do if I knew no one was watching?
How would I dress if I was dressing for my soul?
What would I say if I wasn't afraid of judgment?
Your answers to these questions? That's your real designer collection.
Authenticity Advantage
Here's what happens when you choose real over replica in every area of your life:
You attract your tribe. The right people, opportunities, and experiences start showing up because you're finally broadcasting your true frequency.
You save energy. No more exhausting yourself trying to maintain a persona that isn't you.
You feel alive. When you're not performing, you can actually experience your life.
Your Soul's Signature Style
Darling, you don't need anyone else's approval to be magnificent. You don't need the right labels to be worthy. You don't need to prove anything to anyone—especially not to people who are too busy proving things themselves to notice your brilliance.
Your soul has its own signature style, and it's been waiting for you to wear it proudly.
So here's your invitation: Strip away everything that isn't authentically you. Stop apologizing for your desires, your dreams, your way of being in the world. Stop trying to fit into someone else's definition of success.
-Mitchell + Ryder (of Gospel Glamour)
Celebrating Courageous Testimonies
Captured in stunning detail by the lens of renowned photographer Mitchell Royel back in 2019, the scene now shifts as the hauntingly beautiful track "high1x" by the enigmatic artist blackbear fills the air, its melancholic melodies painting the room in shades of heartbreak and longing.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” - Matthew 11:28
In the sacred space of recovery meetings, souls gather to find solace, support, and strength. These gatherings are a testament to the power of community and faith in the journey of healing.
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” - Psalm 34:18
Let’s celebrate the incredible women who have found the courage to share their testimonies. Their voices, once silenced by shame or fear, now ring out with hope and inspiration, touching hearts and changing lives.
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” - Psalm 147:3
In these meetings, we witness the miraculous healing of wounded hearts. The love and acceptance found here create a nurturing environment where true transformation can take root and flourish.
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” - 2 Corinthians 5:17
Recovery meetings are more than just gatherings; they’re powerful crucibles of change where lives are being rebuilt and hearts are being renewed. Here, we see the old giving way to the new in real-time.
“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’” - 2 Corinthians 12:9
The courage it takes to stand up and share one’s testimony is immeasurable. These brave women are living proof that vulnerability is strength, and their stories are beacons of hope in a world that desperately needs it.
“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” - Philippians 4:13
From struggle to success, these women are showing the world that recovery is possible and that a life of purpose, joy, and abundance awaits on the other side of addiction. Their resilience is truly awe-inspiring.
“The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me.” - Psalm 28:7
In these meetings, we see the power of community in action. Women supporting women, offering understanding, compassion, and unconditional love. It’s a beautiful reflection of divine love in human form.
“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
The transformation in these women’s lives is a testament to the healing power of faith and the strength found in surrender to a higher power. Their stories remind us that even our darkest moments can be redeemed.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” - Jeremiah 29:11
These meetings are breeding grounds for hope, where stories of rock bottom become launchpads for incredible comebacks. Here, women are discovering their true purpose and embracing a future full of promise.
“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” - Isaiah 40:31
The women sharing their testimonies are living proof that rock bottom can become a solid foundation on which to build a new life. Their courage to rise and soar inspires us all.
“The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners.” - Isaiah 61:1
In these meetings, we witness the chains of addiction being broken and the dawn of new beginnings. It’s a powerful reminder that no one is beyond redemption.
“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” - Romans 8:1
The atmosphere in these gatherings is one of acceptance and love, free from judgment and full of grace. It’s a safe haven where healing can truly begin.
“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” - 1 Peter 5:7
These brave women are showing that it’s okay to not be okay, and that reaching out for help is an act of courage, not weakness. Their vulnerability becomes a source of strength for others.
“The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” - Deuteronomy 31:8
In sharing their stories, these women are lighting the way for others who are still struggling in the darkness of addiction. They are living testimonies to the faithfulness of a God who never abandons us.
“And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.” - 1 Peter 5:10
The transformation we see in these meetings is nothing short of miraculous - lives rebuilt, families restored, and futures reclaimed. It’s a powerful reminder of the restorative power of grace.
“But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.” - Isaiah 53:5
These meetings are a reminder that healing is available to all who seek it. The stories shared here point to a love that conquers all and a grace that knows no bounds.
“The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.” - Psalm 18:2
The strength these women display in sharing their testimonies is awe-inspiring, showing that vulnerability can be the birthplace of incredible power. They have found an unshakeable foundation in faith.
“Come now, let us settle the matter,” says the Lord. “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool.” - Isaiah 1:18
In these meetings, we witness the beautiful process of forgiveness - both of self and others - that is crucial to the recovery journey. It’s a powerful reminder that no one is beyond redemption.
“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” - Galatians 2:20
These meetings are sacred spaces where miracles happen daily, where lives are being rewritten and hope is being restored. The women here are living testimonies to the transformative power of faith.
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” - John 10:10
In recovery, these women are not just surviving - they’re thriving, embracing life with a newfound joy and purpose. They’re reclaiming the abundant life that addiction once stole from them.
“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” - Romans 8:38-39
The unconditional love and acceptance found in these meetings mirror the boundless love of God, creating a safe haven for healing and growth. It’s a powerful reminder that nothing can separate us from divine love.
“But he knows the way that I take; when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold.” - Job 23:10
The resilience displayed by these women is truly inspiring, showing that our greatest trials can become our greatest triumphs. They are emerging from their struggles refined and radiant.
“The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul.” - Psalm 23:1-3
In these meetings, we see women finding peace and restoration, often for the first time in years. It’s a beautiful picture of the Good Shepherd leading His flock to still waters.
“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
The stories shared in these meetings are powerful reminders that even our darkest moments can be redeemed and used for good. Nothing is wasted in God’s economy of grace.
“The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners.” - Isaiah 61:1
These meetings are beacons of hope, proclaiming freedom and new beginnings for all who enter. Here, captives are set free and darkness gives way to light.
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” - Psalm 34:18
The compassion and understanding found in these meetings create a nurturing environment where healing can flourish. It’s a tangible expression of God’s nearness to the brokenhearted.
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” - Psalm 147:3
We witness incredible healing in these meetings, as wounds of the past are tended to with love and care. It’s a beautiful picture of divine healing in action.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” - Matthew 11:28
These meetings offer a respite from the struggles of recovery, a place to find rest and renewal. It’s an invitation to lay down our burdens and find true rest.
“Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.” - Psalm 55:22
In these meetings, we see women learning to release their burdens and trust in a higher power. It’s a powerful lesson in surrendering our cares to God.
“The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?” - Psalm 27:1
The courage displayed in these meetings is contagious, inspiring others to face their fears and embrace recovery. These women are finding strength in the Lord to overcome their fears.
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” - 2 Timothy 1:7
In these meetings, we see women stepping into their God-given power, embracing love, and reclaiming their mental and emotional wellbeing.
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” - Joshua 1:9
The women sharing their testimonies embody strength and courage, inspiring others to take bold steps in their own recovery journeys.
“But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.” - Isaiah 40:31
These meetings are a testament to the power of patience and perseverance in recovery, showing that those who trust in the Lord find renewed strength.
“The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” - Exodus 14:14
In the quiet moments of these meetings, we witness the power of stillness and surrender, as women learn to let go and let God fight their battles.
“For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.” - Isaiah 41:13
The support and encouragement found in these meetings reflect the divine help promised to all who seek it. No one walks the path of recovery alone.
“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” - Romans 5:8
These meetings are a powerful reminder of God’s unconditional love, accepting and embracing each person regardless of their past.
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” - 2 Corinthians 5:17
We celebrate new beginnings in these meetings, honoring the journey from addiction to recovery and witnessing the emergence of new creations in Christ.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” - Proverbs 3:5
The recovery journey often defies understanding, but these meetings show the power of trusting in a higher power rather than relying solely on oneself.
“The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him.” - Nahum 1:7
These meetings serve as a refuge for those in recovery, a safe haven where they can find care, support, and the goodness of God.
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” - John 16:33
The testimonies shared in these meetings are living proof that through faith, we can find peace amidst troubles and overcome even the most challenging circumstances.
“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
These meetings are a testament to God’s redemptive work, showing how even the darkest experiences can be transformed for good.
“The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him.” - Psalm 28:7
We witness hearts leaping for joy in these meetings as women find strength, protection, and reasons to praise God in their recovery journey.
“But he knows the way that I take; when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold.” - Job 23:10
The refining process of recovery, though challenging, produces beautiful results in these women’s lives, much like gold refined by fire.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” - Jeremiah 29:11
These meetings are filled with hope as women discover God’s good plans for their lives, beyond the harm of addiction.
“The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners.” - Isaiah 61:1
In these gatherings, we see the fulfillment of this scripture as good news is proclaimed, hearts are healed, and freedom is found.
“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” - Isaiah 40:31
The resilience and determination of these women in recovery is truly inspiring, showing the power of hope and perseverance rooted in faith.
“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” - 1 Peter 5:7
These meetings provide a space for women to cast their anxieties onto God, finding peace in His care and love.
“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” - Philippians 4:7
In the midst of recovery’s challenges, these meetings offer a taste of God’s transcendent peace, guarding hearts and minds.
“Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord.” - Psalm 31:24
The courage displayed by these women as they share their testimonies is a powerful encouragement to all who hope in the Lord.
“The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.” - Zephaniah 3:17
These meetings resound with the joy of salvation, as women experience God’s delight and rejoicing over their journey of recovery.
In these sacred gatherings, we witness the power of faith, community, and courage. Women from all walks of life come together, united in their journey of recovery and their praise for Christ. They’re not just overcoming addiction – they’re building successful careers, prioritizing their health, and inspiring others with their stories of transformation.
These brave souls are working up the courage to share their testimonies, turning their pain into purpose and their struggles into strength. Their voices, once silenced by shame, now ring out with hope and inspiration. They’re living proof that rock bottom can become a solid foundation for an incredible life.
In sharing their stories, these women are lighting the way for others who are still struggling in the darkness of addiction. They’re showing that it’s possible to not just survive, but thrive – making money.
-Mitchell + Ryder (of Gospel Glamour)
We’re Living & Loving in the Moment
Caught in a moment that feels like forever—captured by Mitchell Royel, now lost in "For The Night" with Eppy and Liv Grace Blue, where every second becomes a memory we're meant to keep.
There’s a particular kind of freedom that comes with knowing we don’t have to choose the same path as everyone else. Not because we’re rebellious, but because we’re awake.
We’ve arrived at a moment in history where a woman can build a life of profound meaning and sensuality whether she’s alone or partnered. This isn’t a small thing. This is everything.
Exquisite Solitude
There’s a richness to loving ourselves in real time. To feel the sun on our skin and know that moment belongs entirely to us. To make decisions based on what makes our hearts sing, not on what we’re supposed to want. To build a life that’s a direct reflection of our desires, our values, our vision.
Solo living isn’t a consolation prize. It’s not what we do while waiting for someone else to complete the picture. It’s a full, textured, sensual way of being in the world. It’s waking up and asking: What do I want today? And then giving it to ourselves.
When we’re living for ourselves, every choice becomes an act of self-love. The way we spend our time, the people we invite into our space, the dreams we pursue—they’re all ours. There’s a particular kind of power in that. A particular kind of presence.
Alchemy of Partnership
And then there’s the choice to love someone. To build a life with another person. To create something together that neither of us could create alone.
This too is a choice now. Not an obligation. Not a default setting. A choice.
When we choose partnership from a place of wholeness rather than need, everything shifts. We’re not looking for someone to complete us. We’re inviting someone to complement us. To dance with us. To witness our becoming.
Real love—the kind worth having—happens in the present moment. It’s in the small gestures. The way they listen. The way we laugh together. The vulnerability of being truly seen. It’s in choosing each other, over and over again, not because we have to, but because we want to.
Partnership, when it’s real, is its own kind of freedom. The freedom to be known. To be held. To build something meaningful with another conscious being.
Revolution of Choice
What’s revolutionary about this moment is that we get to decide. We’re not locked into a single narrative about what a woman’s life should look like.
We can be solo and thriving. We can be partnered and free. We can move between these states. We can change our minds. We can honor what we need right now, knowing it might shift.
This is the inheritance of the women who came before us. They fought for our right to choose. And now we get to choose not just whether to be with someone, but how to be—whether alone or together.
Living in the Moment, No Matter What
The real practice—the one that matters—is presence. It’s showing up fully to our lives as they are right now.
If we’re alone, can we feel the aliveness of that? The freedom? The space to become exactly who we’re meant to be?
If we’re with someone, can we feel the gift of being chosen and choosing in return? Can we stay present to the small miracles of being loved?
The moment is always available to us. It doesn’t care whether we’re solo or partnered. It only asks that we show up. That we feel it. That we let it matter.
We’ve come so far. We’ve earned the right to design our own lives. To honor our own desires. To live and love on our own terms.
That’s not just freedom. That’s grace.
The question isn’t whether we should be alone or with someone. The question is: Are we present? Are we choosing? Are we honoring what our hearts are asking for right now?
That’s where the real magic lives.
-Gospel Glamour
Surrender, Shine, Survive
Captured by Mitchell Royel
Now playing: "Into You" by Ariana Grande
Captured by Mitchell Royel
Now playing: "Into You" by Ariana Grande
“Picture this: 2016, a townhouse nestled right against the freeway's humming heartbeat. My life was a mixtape of Ariana and Nicki's "Side to Side" - raw, unapologetic, and pulsing with potential.
Every morning was a ritual of resilience. My selfie clicker became my companion, documenting a journey that was equal parts mundane and magical. The local Instagram profile became my digital confessional - a space where vulnerability met visibility.
Before the car, before the chaos, there were buses. Endless rides that became my meditation spaces. Walking city blocks, backpack heavy with dreams and textbooks, I was crafting a narrative nobody could predict. Each step was a prayer, each breath a promise.
And then? Everything shifted.
Losing my 'fellowship' wasn't just about losing a position. It was a spiritual dismantling. The universe doesn't give you challenges; it gives you opportunities to rebuild. When my external world crumbled, my internal landscape began to bloom.
Beauty isn't about perfection. It's about persistence. It's about standing in the middle of your own deconstruction and choosing to see light. Those bus rides, those walks, that townhouse next to the freeway - they weren't just locations. They were classrooms of consciousness.
My selfies weren't just images. They were declarations: I am here. I am becoming. I am enough.
To anyone listening: Our redirections are not rejections. They are redirections.
Surrender. Trust. Shine.”
-Mitchell + Ryder (of Gospel Glamour)