Let's get to know the Beautiful Sabrina
Sabrina Smart is an American Author, Inspirational Speaker, and Domestic Violence Mentor. She is a 2 X’s Best-Selling Author on Amazon, and also began her own non-profit organization supporting victims of DV. Currently, she is the President and Director of Beauty 4 Ashes International based in Illinois. She’s determined to support those who experience abuse, yet suffer in silence due to fear. Growing up she always knew that God would use her in a major way, but didn’t realize the impact she’d have in the life of others. Her story is a true testament of how she finally developed the courage to overcome adversity and achieve success despite facing significant challenges. She discovered her voice after being in an abusive marriage that almost destroyed her life. She found peace through her relationship with Christ and by helping others transform their lives, (through mentorship).
I was raised in a Christian home by two loving supportive parents and four siblings. I always admired how well they did life and ministry together. My father was a Minister and preached the gospel until he transitioned in 2020. My mother is a gospel singer and Evangelist. Growing up, our family traveled together all over the country doing revivals at different churches. I dreamed of someday having a husband and family of my own. Unfortunately, I experienced multiple heartbreaks & failure in love and marriage. In 2014, I began an internship Downtown Chicago where I met my then spouse. I turned down his advances for a longtime, but eventually we dated. I was certain that he was going to be the love of my life especially because of how similar our personalities were. We had similar interests and we both grew up in the church. Things started off really well at first, but later turned into a nightmare. I would soon learn that I was married to a narcissist who cared nothing about discarding me nor our children.
The Battle after the Wedding
We had a destination wedding that took place in Las Vegas, NV. We had so many amazing moments while there, but they were short lived. Immediately, after we exchanged vows, I saw a side of him that left me afraid. I couldn’t talk to anyone on the phone back home (family) or else he’d become enraged. After our return flight home, I felt as though I had become a prisoner. I couldn’t be myself or express feelings without backlash. It was his way or the highway! He demanded that I had to do exactly as he asked of me and to uphold my vows. My marriage was very one-sided and he cared nothing about my needs or wants. I grew fearful as time passed since he became more and more controlling. One year later, I gave birth to our son. We would have two more children in the span of three years. My health was compromised due to the pregnancies & I developed high blood pressure as a result of the added stress. He wanted to control everything. Me working to support our family was an issue. Whenever I tried attending school or advancing in my career he would purposely do things to prevent me from completing my courses. This made me sad and depressed because I desired to have more; not only for myself, but for my family.
By the last pregnancy with our youngest daughter, there was a strong dislike among the two of us. There were always arguments and the tension was so thick in the home, you could cut through it. Being in a narcissistic abusive marriage destroyed my confidence. I felt trapped. I feared ever attempting to escape and worried about where my children and I would go? He had started ghosting us (abandoning us for months at a time). He would disappear without notice. I was overwhelmed with grief. The abuse, plus the loss of my father during the height of the pandemic left me hopeless. Grief consumed me & I was drowning in my sorrows.
The Courage to break free from Abuse
One day, I finally found the courage to leave after years of watching the disrespect, sometimes physical/verbal abuse, and cheating. There are many different forms of abuse including financial, or withholding finances. I dealt with a lot throughout our marriage. I walked away with nothing except my life & I never looked back. Initially, we were homeless and I felt defeated.
God is a God of second chances! Everything that I lost he replaced. Me and my children settled into our new home, purchased a new car, & furniture (toys etc.). God is able to deliver you out of darkness. I’m a witness that he is the God who heals (Jehovah Raphe)! My passion is empowering victims because I survived. I have dedicated my life to helping others heal their trauma & thrive after abuse. There is a lot of work ahead to end domestic violence as we know it. One of four women experience domestic abuse from an intimate partner. Many lives have ended in tragedy. God has anointed me to help others navigate through their pain and find their purpose. The basis of my organization is Isaiah 61. He gives us beauty for ashes and the oil of joy for mourning! You are the apple of God’s eye.
“Beauty 4 Ashes” is a nonprofit organization that empowers women through education. We’re on a mission to teach all women in our community how they can prevent future trauma. It’s time to overcome difficult times as a stronger person & break the cycles of abuse. The right resources will guide women in the right direction. Our values are built upon three essential pillars: education, mentorship, and providing adequate resources. We believe every woman deserves a second chance in life. Let our organization provide a helping hand today! You don’t have to suffer in silence. Our advocates are available and want to help you with your transformation. Contact us for more info.
Ladies!! Ladies!! Now that you have read Sabrina's story, I hope you have exhaled and inhaled a couple time. I trust that you have learnt a lot from Ashley as well and you are compelled to do life with Christ. I admire Sabrina's boldness to share her story with ShineBeatuifully, and every one of you. No amount of edits could have changed Sabrina's story, so it is being published in its raw form. I am so proud of the woman the Lord is molding and fashioning her “to be” in this season. God bless you Sabrina.
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I love you Sis, & pray that you will receive ALL that the Lord has in store for your life.
May you flourish in your God given Assignment
Stay Blessed!!
Go ahead and “Girl Just Shine”.
Yours Truly,
Ms. Ongel
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