Preserved by Purpose – Diamond Life

By Shewanda Riley Over 30 years ago when I worked as an Administrative Assistant, I had a sign over my work area that read “a diamond is a chunk of coal that made good under pressure.”& Part of the reason that I kept this sign for daily inspiration was because I was unfulfilled with my job and needed the assurance that this quote brought that I would ultimately come out a better person.& & I find myself going back to that quote because of the truth it offers.& & Like some of you, I’m often find myself in a position where I am trying to maintain balance in my life while still effectively handling pressure.& Much like a piece of coal, there are experiences, good and bad, that are designed to bring pressure to my life. & For example, I began 2020 praying to see and hear God in a more intimate way. & In 2020, my Daddy died, and I lived and worked most of the year in complete isolation because of the global coronavirus pandemic.& What I heard from well-meaning friends and family who saw me living through these chaotic moments and my responses to it, were statements...