My name is Shala.

I am a black woman.

I am a millennial.

I am a naturalista.

I am a creative.

Yet I rarely see my complete self represented in today’s social circles.

My faith is my life’s foundation, and it fully enhances every other part of me. From embracing my black femininity to using my God-given creative gifts, each of my unique traits matter.

Yet, most of the time when I watch a show, read a blog that reps the culture, or attend an event, my reality is missing.

I feel like my views, interests, and Iifestyle choices don’t always “fit in.”

I feel peculiar . . . and I believe other women do too.

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Creating Peculiar on Purpose

Peculiar on Purpose was inspired from the King James Version of 1 Peter 2:9:

But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light;

In this context, “peculiar” means special possession and set apart for God’s chosen purpose. God has claimed everyone who believes in Jesus Christ as his prized possessions. Yet, many times, this “setting apart” can cause Christian women to battle with our identity as we struggle to find spaces and communities that represent and relate to us.

My heart for peculiar women

Peculiar women are Christians, first, and deeply care about doing our best to live a life that is pleasing to God. 

We are women striving hard to uplift our womanhood, ethnic backgrounds, and communities that society often doesn’t embrace.

We are artists and educators. Entrepreneurs, ministers, and everything in between.

We’re talented and quirky. We love fashion and good vibes, meaningful relationships and new adventures.

We are a peculiar combination that often doesn’t fit into one box. And this peculiarity can leave us feeling out of place, unheard, and unrepresented. It can also feel isolating as we struggle to meet others like us.

But what if our peculiar design is part of our purpose?

Each one of us is a multifaceted mix of personalities, talents, gifts, and ideas. We are different because God intended us to be. And by celebrating the unique traits that shape who we are, we can bring our Creator glory because, ultimately, our uniqueness is a direct reflection of His.

So, to all my peculiar ladies,

Peculiar on Purpose was made for you! I am excited for us to create an engaging, transparent, and relatable community that empowers every woman to embrace the beauty of being different.

I hope to connect with you soon!

Be purposeful . . . and stay peculiar,

_{“It’s not a burden to love Him, and represent Him, and be who you are . . .  as fly, and as hot, and as whatever. And to still love God and serve Him. It’s not a contradiction.” -Lauryn Hill}

Learn even more about Shala and her love for writing!