Women Are Resilient
“I know women through the years who have lived in very difficult circumstances, but have chosen to go forward with an incredibly positive attitude,” says Bonnie Bjerre, a Because Justice Matters donor and supporter. “The world may look at them and ask how they can move forward, but they make the choice to do so despite the odds.”
One woman whose resilience stands out to Bonnie is someone we’ll call Melissa. A co-worker of Bonnie’s during her time as a teacher, Melissa cares fiercely for everyone around her. “Melissa exudes a peaceful, accepting attitude,” says Bonnie. “She finds a way to be grateful in every situation and she loves Jesus.”
Melissa raised three daughters on her own as a single mother, worked to support her family, and dedicated herself to the kids she worked with at school. “I never heard her complain, ask why me, or compare herself to someone else in better circumstances,” says Bonnie. “She has the amazing ability to forgive and a profound faith.” Years after splitting from her ex-husband, Melissa took in his son when he could no longer care for the child. “She thought of it as a blessing that she got to have a son.”
Even in retirement, Melissa continues to care for her daughters and their families as they face various health challenges and setbacks. Her tenacious hope and constant determination are just a couple of the reasons we celebrate women for their resilience, today and every day.
Bonnie is also one of those women we celebrate. Five years ago, she became a Because Justice Matters donor and supporter: “I wanted to be personally involved with the ministry, not just write a check,” says Bonnie. She quickly realized that the primary way she wanted to serve was through staff care: “It didn’t sound like anyone else was doing that,” says Bonnie. “Staff need to keep their spiritual and emotional tanks full to help other people.” She mobilized her bible study, Women of the Word at Moraga Valley Presbyterian Church, and they have been praying over and caring for staff ever since. Just last month, Moraga Valley hosted a joint BJM and Women of the Word brunch full of good conversation, delicious food, and a beautiful space.
“I love the way BJM loves the women and girls they work with,” says Bonnie. “I’ve seen such tenderness, love, respect, and kindness in every interaction they have with these women and girls. BJM looks past the circumstances and sees the sweet dignity that each person holds as Jesus’ beloved, even if they don’t know it yet.”
Relationship is one of our core values at BJM: relationship with the women and girls we work with, relationship with each other, and relationship with our volunteers and donors. We would love to start an ongoing relationship with you. Click here to become a monthly donor and help us celebrate the resilience of women and girls this Women’s Month!