Written by: Sophia Roman
Article source: JOY! Magazine
“Anything is possible if a person believes.” – Mark 9:23
It is still a shock! Farren Jacobs could not believe that she made it as a finalist for Miss Regal International South Africa 2021. She explains how she stumbled on the advertisement for applications to this contest. Twice she had just overlooked it, but it caught her attention one last time. It was then when she decided to be bold and strong and apply.
Lies and social media
Although not unfamiliar with a camera, she had her doubts. Growing up, her life was filled with love and joy in family life. Her parents are her greatest support structure and role models. Scrolling through social media daily, these online voices told her a different story. All she saw on her feed were ‘perfect’ pictures and happy times of just everybody. These timelines always showcase such a perfect picture. Most of these pictures are photoshopped in any case, she realised. Everything seemed to be in place, nothing lacking, nothing missing, so she believed.
The intimidation of social media became stronger
One strong voice that Farren heard was when she would look into any mirror. The reflection would only let her see her imperfections. From a very young age she had struggled with acne, somehow she could not get this fixed. The voice, while looking at the mirror, would not tell her about her beautiful, warm open smile and her set of pure white teeth. All she saw were her imperfections. So how on earth would she be able to win any competition?
Faith over fear
The voice would tell her one story: “You’ll never be enough!” So convincing was this voice that she started feeling afraid. Since a very young age, Farren accepted Jesus as Lord of her life. It was her parents who would encourage her to overcome her fears by believing that anything and everything is possible if only she would believe.
True identity is found in Christ
“I am incredibly honoured and blessed. I want to dedicate this journey to my dreams, fears, and insecurities – that little voice inside me saying ‘you’ll never be enough’! But most importantly, for every single person who has a dream and a passion.” True identity is found in the One who created us. Farren was totally shocked when she received the call that she made it as a finalist. If Farren could do it, anyone can do it. Step out in faith and believe that all things are indeed possible.
The 2021 Grand Finale Crowing Event will see the Miss Regal International SA & Miss Regal International TEEN SA finalists take to the stage to compete for the coveted crown, title, and opportunity to represent South Africa on a Global Stage.
Address the ‘inner critic’
The more the inner critic tries to convince Farren that she will never win, the more she speaks back at this voice. It is not about winning; it is about believing that you can do all things through Christ alone. Just taking the first step to enrol is the bravest thing to do. She reminds herself that it is about celebrating and honouring the beauty and dignity of all the other contestants. More importantly, it is about faith in Christ to believe that one can step out in faith and silence that inner critic.
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Date published: 28/09/2021
Sophia Roman is a pioneer, visionary and life transformation coach. Sophia and her husband Theo pastor the West Reach AOG Church in Mitchells Plain.
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