How do you see yourself, and how would you like to be seen?
I see myself as a unicorn because I see the world through a lens of goodness in the midst of the unpleasant and I operate accordingly. I don’t hold on to anything that harbors negative energy. People rarely understand it but it is too costly not to let it go.
I would like to be seen as I am, a person who is imperfect and loves people and peace.
How do you define your purpose in life?
I am a conduit for change, just doing my part in God’s Kingdom. I don’t have it all figured out yet but whatever it is, I am a willing vessel.
What are three events that helped to shape your life?
Becoming a mother opened a lane for me to accept the fact that things don't always go as planned and that is okay because blessings don't always come the way we expect them to.
When I became a first generation college graduate and was accepted into grad school, I believed for the first time in my life, that there are no ceilings to what I could achieve as long as I am willing to work hard and commit to a thing.
Becoming a divorcee for the 2nd time, forced me to take a hard look at myself and realize that self-love is fundamentally imperative to REALLY living.
What woman inspires you and why?
Hands down, my mother. She left home (South Korea) in her 20s, traveled across the world to an unknown place, with unfamiliar people, a foreign language barrier, a middle school education, and no knowledge of what to expect. No matter the adversity and challenges she faced, she continued to love hard and make sacrifices without complaint and with an unbelievable amount of poise, grace and humility.
Are there any assumptions about women that you would like to change? Why?
I am not sure I would change any assumptions that people make about women. What people assume about us is none of our business. We can only live in our purpose and pray that people see us for who we are. If not, it is their infirmity, not ours.
What do you believe will be the biggest challenge for the generation of women behind you?
I believe the biggest challenge for the generations of women behind us will be the limits they place on themselves. Yes, there will be challenges and hurdles to climb but those will never go away, they will only manifest themselves in a different manner. Women are resilient and strong so as long as we believe in ourselves and continue to show love and support for one another, we are unstoppable.
As a Woman of Valor, what advice would you give to your younger self and do you follow this advice now? Be confident! Accept yourself and all of your flaws. Take ownership of your happy. While you strive to take care of others, don’t forget about you. No matter how hard or how many times you fall, GET BACK UP!!!
I am still a work in progress, trying to master self-love but getting back up has never been optional for me. I ALWAYS get back up!!!
