My memoir, Unshackled: A Teen Mom Finding Unstoppable Freedom, is a journey through the defining moments of my life. As a woman who's faced her fair share of obstacles, I've come to believe that each of us has the power to leave a unique mark on this world - one that reflects God's love and grace. Throughout these pages, I share how I felt God's presence during my darkest times, guiding me through the challenges of being a teenage mother. This book is my testimony of breaking free from stereotypes and generational patterns, showcasing how God can use our struggles to reveal His glory and transform our lives in ways we never imagined possible.
Hello, readers. I'm thrilled and grateful that you're holding this book in your hands or, for my audiobook listeners, that you're hearing these words. The journey to create these pages has been one filled with tears, joy, and a deep search for what the Lord wanted me to share with you through my story. Completing this book feels like a tremendous blessing, one that the Lord knew I needed during this season of my life. As a child, I never imagined I would write a book. I must admit that neither writing nor reading were passions of mine. But life has a way of leading us down unexpected paths, offering us opportunities for growth and fresh perspectives on God's grand design. Looking back, I enjoy journaling as a form of self-expression, which is, in essence, a form of writing. Growing up, I always kept a diary to capture important moments in my life. This habit of journaling became an integral part of my daily routine, serving as a personal sanctuary where I could freely express my thoughts, emotions, and experiences. As I filled each page with my innermost reflections, I unknowingly cultivated a deep sense of self-awareness that would prove invaluable in my later years. 9 However, the idea of writing a book seemed unattainable until I fully acknowledged God as a loving heavenly Father, not just for my family and friends, but for me, His daughter. For years, I walked through life believing I understood God's love. I attended church, read my Bible, and even shared His message with others. But it wasn't until that moment, sitting in our new home after our big move, that the truth hit me like a lightning bolt. God didn't just love the world in some abstract sense; He loved me, Veronica, personally and deeply. It was a pivotal moment that heightened my self-awareness. During a leadership gathering hosted by my new home church, I encountered a teaching that transformed my perspective. While anointing with oil is a well-known biblical practice, the concept of anointing oneself was a revelation. This idea exposed a deep-seated lack of self-love I hadn't previously recognized. While I could readily perform this practice for others, I struggled to feel worthy of doing it for myself. In the Bible, Luke 4:18 says, "The spirit of the Lord is upon me because He has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free." 10 Tears streamed uncontrollably down my face. I knew the Holy Spirit was revealing something profound at that moment. Those who know me understand I rarely cry, especially in the presence of others. I rushed to the bathroom and looked at my reflection in the mirror, tears still streaming down my face. At that moment, I whispered, "I'm a daughter God wants a relationship with." This revelation reminded me that God loved me. At that moment, I knew the healing I received would be used to help others find healing, too, like never before. It was about my personal, intimate connection with my heavenly Father. After thirteen years of calling myself a Christian, this awakening moment shook me to my core. How had I missed this crucial aspect of my faith for so long? Yet, by God's grace, He still used and equipped me for the tasks He entrusted to me. I now realize I was missing a part of my faith that has since empowered me to engage in deeper conversations and connect with others on a more profound level of empathy. As I stood there in our new house, absorbing this newfound truth, I understood our family's relocation wasn't just a change of address, which I will talk about further in the book. 11 It was God's way of bringing me face to face with His love for me. At that moment, I knew this move was the most significant leap of faith we could have ever taken, not just for our family but for my own spiritual journey. “You make your saving help my shield, and your right hand sustains me; your help has made me great” (Psalm 18:35). During this writing season, I have come to appreciate the beauty and art of stillness in the presence of the Lord. This time has allowed me to reflect deeply and recognize the profound ways God has guided my steps. Journaling, which once seemed like a simple pastime, has become a powerful tool for connecting with God and understanding His plan for my life. “He says, Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth” (Psalm 46:10). In this book, I recount some of the most impactful moments of my life and illustrate how God miraculously transformed my struggles into a beautiful, grace-filled journey. I firmly believe that we should share how God has mended our broken pieces, rather than keep them to ourselves, which sparked a passion and confidence in me to write this book. 12 Throughout this book, you'll notice certain words emphasized in BOLD. These words have profoundly impacted me, shaping my life perspective and guiding my journey. Each holds special significance, representing pivotal moments and lessons that have deeply influenced me. Additionally, I've RECOMMENDED several books that have been instrumental in my personal growth, speaking life into various aspects of my journey. I've also included my REFLECTIONS with God from different seasons of my life. This book isn't just for me. It's a testimony I can offer to others who need a reminder of their calling to be the best version of themselves, emphasizing that we can only accomplish this pursuit with God's help. I've tried to navigate life without God and found it impossible to sustain peace, joy, and love in all areas of my journey. After all, what is the purpose of experiencing something if it cannot serve a cause greater than ourselves? Through these pages, I hope to inspire and encourage you to see God's hand in your life and embrace His planned journey. Our family's RELOCATION to Charlotte, North Carolina, served as a confirmation for me to write a book. I firmly believe that this move was guided by God’s intervention, opening new doors and opportunities. Even though we had 13 never been to North Carolina, only God knew what awaited us there. During this time, It became evident that God orchestrates our encounters and relationships, strategically placing us in situations where we meet individuals with whom we have much in common while navigating this new chapter of being transplants. This move was a leap of faith, but in this unfamiliar territory, I felt God's presence more profoundly than ever. He used this relocation to show me the importance of obedience and trust in His plans. Meeting new people with similar experiences and values reassured me that we were exactly where we needed to be. Through these connections, I also found the encouragement and support to pursue the dream of writing this book. The journey to Charlotte was more than just a physical move; it was a spiritual awakening. God used this transition to affirm that He is always in control, guiding us to where we can best fulfill His purpose. This book is a testament to that journey: a story of faith, obedience, and the incredible ways God works in our lives. The Lord also confirmed to write a book through the COMMUNITY. Our relocation compelled me to purposefully cultivate relationships with others, reinforcing 14 that growth demands consistent effort. It made me realize my fear of past hurts had prevented me from pursuing lasting, genuine friendships. More than anything, it ignited an intense desire to seek God's presence during the most uncertain period of my life. My journey with the Lord has shown me that each season brings lessons, and with the right perspective, no experience is wasted. Throughout the process of writing this book, I drew inspiration from various individuals and couples I've met. Our discussions frequently centered on overcoming generational strongholds as we formed our families and friendships. These conversations affirmed that God intervened in my family to break generational chains for us and others we would encounter. My book is a testament to the power of God's guidance and the importance of embracing the people He brings into our lives. It is a story of faith, resilience, and the beauty of discovering God's purpose in every season of life. “They triumphed over him by the blood of the lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death” (Revelation 12:11). Additionally, the Lord confirmed writing a book through the LOSS OF A LOVED ONE. As I look back, this was the 15 seed that started my journey of self-reflection. What legacy do I want to leave my family and friends? The final pivotal moment that sparked this awakening boldness to write occurred when I lost someone I deeply loved and admired: my mother-in-law. Her passing made me realize that life is too short to be consumed by limitations and fears. I am grateful for my mother-in-law's impact on my life and how I witnessed her praise God despite her circumstances during her final days on earth. I am thankful for the gift of reflection she left our family as we embrace the present and look forward to the future. I cannot keep to myself all that God has done, as I believe God has guided my steps so that I could write this book. I am committed to sharing the impact of God's work in my life. I used to think I was the only one with struggles, making sharing seem pointless. However, I've realized that sharing life's challenges with others is easier to bear. Reflecting on my life, I'm thankful for the tough times, as they've strengthened me, emboldened me, and increased my confidence in handling my life's difficult and beautiful moments. 16 This testimony powerfully demonstrates the profound lessons learned through loss and the unwavering presence of God in every season. I desire that these pages inspire others to see God's hand in their lives, embrace their struggles, and find strength in sharing their stories. “Instead of your shame, you will receive a double portion, and instead of disgrace, you will rejoice in your inheritance, and so you will inherit a double portion in your land, and everlasting joy will be yours” (Isaiah 61:7). LESSONS FROM THE BUTTERFLY In a butterfly's life, I see a reflection of my journey. Each stage of its transformation mirrors a chapter in my life, and each struggle and challenge shapes the person I’ve become. To begin with, I hope to INSPIRE RESILIENCE. Like the caterpillar, I faced challenges early on, moments that tested my strength and perseverance. It was during these times that I learned the true meaning of resilience and how to keep moving forward, even when the path seemed impossible. Furthermore, I aim to PROMOTE SELF-REFLECTION. As the caterpillar retreats into its cocoon, it undergoes a deep, unseen transformation. In my life, there were periods of 17 reflection when I had to look inward, guided by God’s presence that was always there, even when I couldn’t see it. These were moments of quiet change, where I was shaped by the challenges I faced, emerging stronger and more aware of the strength within me. These periods of reflection were not merely passive moments of contemplation but active processes of growth and change. Like a caterpillar undergoing metamorphosis within its chrysalis, these times of self-examination allowed me to transform my fears and limitations. The challenges I faced during these times served as catalysts for this inner transformation, each difficulty presenting an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. As a butterfly emerges stronger and more beautiful, I evolved through these reflective periods. As I emerged from these reflective periods, I transformed like a butterfly emerging from its cocoon. The strength I discovered within myself was not new but rather a revelation of what had always been there, waiting to be uncovered. This newfound awareness of my inner resilience has become a cornerstone of my personal growth, informing how I approach future challenges and opportunities for self-reflection. 18 Moreover, I plan to continue to BREAK GENERATIONAL CHAINS. The butterfly's struggle to break free from the cocoon resonates deeply with me. It’s a fight for freedom, for a new beginning. In my life, this symbolizes the breaking of generational chains, the effort to free myself and my family from the patterns of the past. It wasn’t easy, but through this struggle, I found a new strength and the possibility of a brighter future. Finally, I aspire to engage in ENCOURAGE CONFIDENCE with others. The butterfly flies from flower to flower, embodying the confidence of embracing its true form. In this stage, I see my journey, the realization of my potential, and the confidence to live boldly, with the knowledge that I am loved and guided by a power greater than myself. This is the legacy I hope to leave behind. As you read my story, I hope you see your own journey reflected in these stages and find the inspiration to embrace your transformation, whatever form it may take. 19 WHY IS THE BUTTERFLY CHAINED!? When I think of a butterfly, I envision a beautiful creature created with purpose. Its journey is not easy, requiring a transformation through metamorphosis to become its best self. God placed such creatures on earth to inspire us and remind us that the same God who created such beauty also created us. As I write this book, I find myself transitioning, redefining my purpose in a new context, and preparing for my next assignment. Although nothing seems to be happening externally or internally, profound changes occur beneath the surface. This season of my life feels like a time of waiting and being still with God, a quiet yet transformative period. My friend Madison offered encouragement with this verse: “Waiting is active; those who wait upon the Lord will not be put to shame” (Psalm 25:3).
I am enjoying being more present-oriented, recognizing that it is in these everyday moments that God wants to meet me the most, finding daily pockets of rest. Anyone who knows me well understands my deep passion for people and my love for organization. Yes, you read that right. I enjoy well-organized spaces and arranging areas that require 20 an artistic touch for visual appeal, whether it's a physical space or a digital document like PowerPoint or Google Docs. I appreciate the beauty of creativity through the lens of art. My love for art comes from the impossible changes God has made in my life, turning it from a mess into a beautiful masterpiece only He could make. Our God is a creator, so creating is very much woven into our IMAGO DEI. I take great joy in taking something that appears impossible to fix and turning it into a warm and inviting space where others can marvel, experience joy, and feel loved through the smallest of details. My goal is to recognize the inherent beauty in a space and rejuvenate it. Isn't this exactly what God does with us? He sees us, even when we feel undeserving, and takes our messy lives, completely transforming them into something unexpectedly beautiful and beyond our wildest dreams. There is something remarkable about being involved in restoring something that was once damaged, overlooked, unappreciated, unloved, and unseen and witnessing its breathtaking transformation. Just like a butterfly undergoes metamorphosis, we, too, go through changes. The graceful journey and vibrant colors of a butterfly serve as a reminder of its purpose on earth, as it fulfills its true potential to be set apart for His glory. 21
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come; the old has gone, the new is Here!” (2 Corinthians 5:17 )
THE BUTTERFLY Where did my idea of a butterfly come from? Let me tell you, it all started one day as I sat at my dining table, my mind filled with the desire for a fresh idea for the book cover. As I got lost in my thoughts, the Lord sparked my imagination. Suddenly, a vision appeared as I closed my eyes. I saw a magnificent butterfly, its wings vibrantly colored and intricately patterned. The butterfly fluttered gracefully from flower to flower, each petal a canvas for its landing. Its presence radiated confidence and beauty, captivating my imagination with a glimpse of transformation at its finest and symbolizing metamorphosis, growth, and resilience. This vision sparked the thought that, just like the butterfly, I had overcome challenges and emerged stronger, ready to embrace new chapters in my life. Inspired by this revelation, I felt a “knowing” from the Lord that the butterfly would be the perfect visual representation for my book cover. My friend, Janae, brought my God-given vision to life and described the art design like this: "The 'skeleton' of the butterfly emulates an X-ray, showing what's invisible to the naked eye, the past chains now broken." It 22 would serve as a reminder to readers that life's journey is filled with moments of transformation and growth and that within each of us lies the power to spread our wings and embrace our true potential. Ultimately, it was not just a book cover: the butterfly symbolizes resilience and the power of dreaming big with God. Being a visual person who appreciates art, receiving this vision early in the book's creation felt like a personal gift from God that served as a confirmation for me. In all of its delicate beauty, this butterfly was a perfect metaphor for the journey I had undertaken and the message I wanted to share with others. THE CHAINS Like I did at first, you might wonder why a butterfly would be shown in chains. It's an unconventional image; however, after careful thought, I understood that my experiences haven't always made sense. Throughout my life, I've fought for myself, my children, and my future—a struggle that has often seemed endless. Yet, it's in these moments that God has been glorified. He is the only constant presence in my life who has made sense, providing the sole explanation for who I am today. 23 Chains are weighty burdens designed to restrain or imprison, making escape difficult. They symbolize the sin that weighs us down when we don't center our lives in Christ. These sinful chains bind us, robbing us of true freedom and joy. Like the butterfly, we weren't created to bear such heavy burdens. I have embarked on a journey where the chains of sin have gradually broken apart from me, revealing to me the embrace of the lightness of love, grace, and freedom found in a relationship with Christ. Through the mighty power of the Holy Spirit, I have experienced a transformation by renewing my mind and allowing God to lead and guide me every step of the way (Romans 12:12). If God cares for the birds in the sky, He certainly cares for us, too.
“Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them.” (Matthew 6:26).
The concept of GENERATIONAL CHAINS refers to the inherited burdens and patterns of sin that are passed down through family ties. Breaking free from these generational strongholds requires intentional effort, faith, and the transformative power of Christ. 24 With this perspective in mind, realize you have been imparted with the power to leave a lasting legacy through your God-given story. Are you living out the freedom and fullness of your God-given story? I’m excited for you to join me on this journey of soaring into freedom and living a weightless life, free of sin, like the butterfly.
“Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” (Isaiah 43:19) 25 26