Stories Archives • Blessed Daniella

June 7, 2019

Red Lipstick

As a pastor's child, wearing the color red was discouraged. That meant, no red lipstick; no red nail polish; and no red dresses. For whatever reason, red was seen as sinful and devilish, too grown and sexy.

November 23, 2020

Letter to Dr. Bullock

I am Daniella McLaughlin. As a child, I grew up taking care of my teeth and my parents taking me to routine dental appointments. During my teenage years, I was teased for wearing braces, but I longed to have a beautiful, bright smile.

November 24, 2020

Feeling Hopeless

I feel like the more I push for greatness.
The more I get slapped in the face and it just goes the other way.
I just don't get it.

November 24, 2020

Reflections at 40

I am turning 40 in May. I am young at heart. My skin in my body does not match my heart. I am working on the inside spiritually. But I also want the outside to match my inside transformation.

November 26, 2020

Thanksgiving

This Thanksgiving wasn’t the same because, since February 14th, 2011 my life, nor I will never be the same again. Death came and took my Father away.

May 30, 2023

What’s Next?

Growing up, we always had Sunday dinner, Gathered at a house or in our own home. We went to barbecues, celebrated with friends and family, Never feeling alone, always happy to see loved ones. But I realized there’s a family missing, Not always around, and it breaks my heart. Not intentionally isolating myself, I am the single mom, the youngest, the church friend, the caretaker.