S1 E4: Blessed

In this deeply personal and reflective episode, Kenda Lawson records her thoughts for The B Word podcast on her 42nd birthday. She shares powerful stories of love, survival, and resilience, recounting her journey from childhood to motherhood and marriage. As Kenda looks back on moments of trauma, near misses, and the challenges she's overcome, she highlights the importance of not just surviving adversity but thriving in its wake. This episode is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and finding peace amidst life's storms.

1. Reflections on Turning 42:

   • Kenda reflects on her birthday and life journey, expressing gratitude for love, business success, and the resilience to maintain optimism despite past trauma.

2. Marriage and Partnership:

   • Kenda talks about her husband Dominic's viral post about the strength of their marriage and how they've navigated challenges together.
   • She emphasizes that their relationship is not defined by hardship but by the love and joy they've built between tough times.

3. Superhero Origin Stories and Personal Growth:

   • Drawing parallels between superhero origin stories and her own life, Kenda discusses how facing tragedies shapes who we become, teaching resilience and strength.

4. Childhood Memories and Near-Death Experience:

   • Kenda recounts a core memory from her childhood where she and her sisters narrowly escaped a car explosion, illustrating the importance of trusting instincts and the fragility of life.

5. Surviving Fires - Literal and Figurative:

   • She recalls another close call involving a house fire started by her mom's abusive partner. This experience helped her discover inner courage and her role as a protector.

6. Loss and Healing Through Motherhood:

   • Kenda shares the deeply emotional story of her second pregnancy with her son Max, who was born prematurely and lived for only six days. She talks about how this experience shaped her as a mother and strengthened her marriage, turning tragedy into a story of love and purpose.

7. The Blessing of Adversity:

   • Kenda emphasizes that while trials test us, they also offer lessons and blessings. She discusses how embracing adversity helps uncover inner strength and leads to personal growth.

8. The Power of Peace Amidst Crisis:

   • Through her life's hardships, Kenda learned that true peace doesn't come from avoiding challenges but from maintaining inner calm during them.

• "I'm thankful that my past didn't steal my optimism or close me off from love and joy."
• "Sometimes the greatest blessings come disguised as near misses and close calls."
• "I believe God has a purpose for me, and even though I faltered, I was never alone."
• "Our pain refines us; it does not define us."
• "Peace doesn't come from the absence of trouble, but from the ability to maintain calm within it."

• Empowering Stories: Kenda's stories are filled with heart, highlighting how she transformed painful experiences into a source of strength and empowerment.
• Authenticity: Kenda opens up about her personal life, sharing honest and raw insights about love, motherhood, marriage, and resilience.
• Inspiration for Hard Times: Listeners struggling with adversity will find hope and healing in Kenda's message that we are not just survivors but thrivers.
• Community and Connection: This episode invites listeners to be part of an ever-growing community that supports one another through shared experiences.

• If Kenda's journey resonated with you, don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review The B Word on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen.
• Stay tuned for the next episode, featuring guest Janet Bentley, where we discuss the theme of bravery and healing after trauma.