Walking Tall!

I was born as the 2nd child in a young family. My mom and dad were happy to welcome a daughter to their family, as I had an older brother waiting for me to arrive. Their pictures of the first couple of months show a smiling mom and dad and a proud big brother. I had an enjoyable childhood, visited both sets of grandparents often, and did lots of fun things with my family.

My life changed dramatically when my parents divorced when I was 7 years old. Not only did we move from my childhood home, but my daddy was gone too. I was at the age where in my mind, my dad was perfect...and the divorce threw a big wrench into that picture. My dad was leaving our family...and things would never be the same!

I spent the rest of my childhood and teenage years in St. Johns, AZ, near my maternal grandmother and grandpa. They were very important role models in my life...and I still view my Grandma Olivia Nielsen as one of my personal heroes. My mom, brother, younger sister and I lived in an apartment for a couple of years, but by the time I was headed to middle school, we were in a home that my mom actually remained in until 2003.

As difficult as the growing up years can be, mine were filled with an emotional struggle of not having a father present in my life. I could remember how important my dad had been in my life, but I really felt that he was preoccupied with his new family (he had remarried and had 2 stepchildren) and didn't really care about me or my brother or sister anymore. There was very little contact initiated from him, and as a young girl, that was a sign to me that my dad really just didn't care anymore.

Soon after I turned 12, our young women's group at church started singing various songs, one of which was titled, Walk Tall, You're a Daughter of God. Immediately, I felt as if I was no longer alone! I had a Father watching over me...one who had cared about me before I lived on earth, and one who continued to love me and watch over me! This song became one that I would sing when I was feeling sad or alone, and it always helped my perspective realign positively. Even as I matured and attended college, this is a song I would draw strength from and share with others if I felt there was a need. Today, I feel the need to share it here...I hope it touches someone's heart!

Walk Tall
(You're A Daughter Of God)

words and music by Jamie Glenn

Right now I have a prayer deep within my heart,
A prayer for each of you there is a special part.
That you remember who you are and him who lives above.
Please seek for him and live his way; You'll feel his love.
(chorus)
Walk tall, you're a daughter, a child of God,
Be strong and remember who you are,
Try to understand, you're part of his great plan.
He's closer than you know, Reach up; he'll take your hand.

Long before the time you can remember,
Our Father held you in his arms so tender.
Those loving arms released you as he sent you down to earth.
He said, "My child, I love you. Don't forget your great worth."
(chorus)
Walk tall, you're a daughter, a child of God,
Be strong and remember who you are,
Try to understand, you're part of his great plan.
He's closer than you know, Reach up; he'll take your hand.

This life on earth we knew would not be easy.
At times we lose our way his path we may not see.
But please remember, always please, that you are not alone.
He'll take your hand, He loves you! He will guide you home.
(chorus)
Walk tall, you're a daughter, a child of God, 
Be strong and remember who you are, 
Try to understand, you're part of his great plan. 

He's closer than you know, Reach up; he'll take your hand.

Have a beautiful Sunday!