Carlita made a compelling impact on our lives in 2020. We are absolutely honored not only, to celebrate her as our Know YOUR Beautiful™️ Woman of 2020, but also to have her reach other women, who need to see themselves in print. Always lead with joy. We asked her specifics questions and here are her responses.
Her journey that has led us to this request:
I was born premature with a rare syndrome that affects ones connective tissues. Growing up I was always the tallest and skinniest girl in class. I was constantly teased and called "bones" and "sticks". Oh and I can't dare forget to mention that I wore eyeglasses; adding "four eyed" to that list. During my pre-teen years, I was also diagnosed with a severe case of scoliosis. I remember it like it was yesterday because I'd almost missed the annual 8th grade dance because I had just gotten out of the hospital from having a rod implanted in my back. Although I was popular, being the daughter of a principal and pastor; I felt awkward and ashamed. It wasn't until I was in college that I ditched my "tomboy" behavior for short skirts and heels. I married a guy 10 years my senior at the age of 22. However, in search of true happiness, I decided to part ways and we divorced when I was 30. Immediately after, my spinal issues led to peripheral neuropathy.
Why she’s a Bad Ass today:
In addition to the initial back surgery, I've had a total of 10 major operations, resulting from several lens dislocations in the eyes, multiple spinal issues, and having both of my lungs collapsing, TWICE! They called it "spontaneous pneumothorax". To date , my right foot is completely numb, and my left foot becomes more and more numb by the months. I'm in the process of researching adaptive hand controls for my vehicle to assist me when driving. On December 25th, 2020, I turned 41. You're thinking OMG!! That's a lot considering my age right? I KNOW!! So you ask, why am I a Bad Ass today? That's simple. Because when you see me; you wouldn't know that I've been through, and am still currently going through those things, unless I told you.
““What you don’t know CAN hurt you”. (Because knowledge is power).”
Advice to teen girls + women reading:
I must be honest and admit that my debilitating peripheral neuropathy keeps me spiraling between dangerously depressive states of mind, to constantly being on my knees in prayer. My new found femininity was short lived. I've been forced to trade my heels for flats. One of my favorite books was written by Robin Roberts titled, "Everybodys Got Something". We all have different vices. And although we've made tremendous strides in the workplace, we as women still struggle with what is more often self-inflicted fears of unacceptance. Know that regardless of your skin tone, hair length and texture, thickness of eyebrows and lashes, weight, height, income, and number of "followers", that YOU ARE ENOUGH!!! Not because I say so, but because you are the child of the most high God!!
I am:
I am chosen. There is only one of me, throughout this entire world. And only I can do, what God has called for me to do.
Thank you for the reality check. Thank you for allowing us to celebrate you. Wear your crown proudly. Always, OWN who you are.
photography provided by Photos by LJK