Occasionally, I share with women and teenage girls from my heart. My prayer is that my words bring humor and hope.
Hope for those trapped in perfectionism and fear.
I grew up believing a lie—that I had to be perfect to be loved. Laughter brings ladies closer as I play dress-up and portray "Julie the child," then I become "Julie the young mother." With honesty and God’s help, I reveal "Julie--all grown up."
Hope for those with depression.
My year of clinical depression in 1994 was more than a breakdown. It was a breakthrough. Imperfection, failure, and depression, finally broke my rigid pride and attempts at perfectionism.
Hope for those who’ve experienced the death of a child.
My testimony often helps moms who’ve lost children. Robbie, our third child, born with anencephaly didn’t survive. I made a decision, a choice, to trust God during our son’s birth and death. This didn't mean grieving came quickly, or that I had all the answers, but God was faithful.
Hope for teenage girls and their moms.
Rebellious teens desperately want to be loved just as they are—the way God loves us. Sometimes teenagers express their pain with explosive rebellion. But if I'm honest, many days my heart is filled with rebellion too--the sneaky quiet kind that insists, Surely I know better than God.
Hope for those with addictions.
I believe every family struggles with something. My family’s struggle with substance abuse changed me. I came to a place of compassion for addicts and alcoholics and for those who love them. Attending Al-Anon revealed my own addiction to fear and control. I’m a fear-aholic. I can’t allow a taste of fear.
Quotes from previous churches:
“I thank God for the ministry of Julie Garmon. Her openness and transparency in sharing of her life experiences were moving and encouraging. Our ladies were blessed tremendously and I would highly recommend her to speak at any ladies gathering." Cheryl Waters, Director of Women's Ministry, Grace Baptist Church
“Julie, what a pleasure it was having you speak at our Mother's Day Luncheon. Your testimony is powerful and inspiring. Many of our ladies, from the very young to the very old, have told me what a blessing you were to them. Even my 9 year old granddaughter said, "Gigi, Jesus has really helped that lady." She didn't understand everything, but she got the message just the same. Gerry McKinney, Events Coordinator, Mt Carmel Christian Church Women's Ministry
“Julie was amazing! She was so honest and real--and brought such great creativity into her presentation! So very prepared, and kept our group totally engaged---through tears and laughter blended our hearts together that night!” Leigh Anne Day, Director of Women’s Ministry for 8 years, Celebration Church