One of the strongest women I have ever met. The first time I laid my eyes on her was a cold winter day a little over two years ago. The sky was full of clouds and a light icy rain. She was pregnant, standing at the city bus stop with her daughter wearing a thin coat. After a bus ride to an automotive store to purchase a part for her car, she returned to her temporary home, The Light House Shelter, soaking wet. She was trying to get to Virginia to visit family for the holidays, but her car needed to be repaired first. Using her community of resources, she was able to find a mechanic within the shelter who could work on it for a reasonable negotiated rate of $25. It was all she could pay him.

This was all handled with patience and grace. And a two year old in tow. In the pouring icy rain. I watched from afar, and wondered if I had even an ounce of that grace. Or patience. Or resourcefulness. How I take for granted a working car. My own transportation. My own shelter.

I find myself thinking on that day whenever I seem to think things are hard. She showed me that no matter what your circumstances, the true test is how you handle them. No matter how big your obstacles seem, your positive perspective will help you overcome all that are in your way.

Two years later, she now has two beautiful girls. A home. A job. And a new used car. All of this, accomplished with her perseverance, patience and grace. Meet beautiful Genevieve.