New Beginnings

I’d like to introduce you to Jan, and have her tell the story of her New Beginning. As I mentioned in my last Blog, Knocked for a Loop , life can bring hard things that sock us in the gut.

For Jan, The End came in early 2010. With a divorce after 27 years of marriage, Jan was feeling pretty defeated. She tells it like this:

 I felt lost, defeated and worthless. I didn’t have any confidence.  Not only did I lack confidence in my abilities, but in myself as a person. I felt like a failure—like I had nothing left.

Later that year, my sister, Kathy asked, “If you could do anything, what would it be?

I’ve always wanted to own a consignment shop. Kathy asked if I was willing to invest my tax return money. Her philosophy was, if it didn’t work, I hadn’t risked much. I would have another tax return the following year. So, with that seed money I purchased clothing racks, found upscale clothing at yard sales, and bought out two shops that were closing. Then, the store in Limington Meadows came available and I rented it.

The name of your shop is New Beginnings Resale Boutique.  There is a story behind the name isn’t there—you found inspiration and hope in a particular Bible verse.

Yes, a verse I’ve clung to during this time is 2 Corinthians 5:17 – Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature. Old things have passed away, behold all things become new.

To me this verse touched many aspects of my life starting over. I am a new creature: I rededicated my life to the LORD. The old things passing away and things becoming new -- this was my marriage ending and my new life beginning. It is also your old clothes becoming new clothes for someone else.

Sounds like a step of faith! I’m sure there have been ups and downs along the way. How has God provided your needs? What special blessings have you encountered?

God provided  in many ways since being on my own and opening the shop. In the last three years I haven’t been able to find a full-time job. But, He has met all of my needs. We have never done without. It came by way of extra hours at work, tax return money—anytime there was a financial need, the money or the opportunity to make money showed up. I have also learned to live my life claiming God’s promises. He promised to provide all my needs—I only need to be faithful to Him.

One of the biggest blessings for me is being able to provide clothing to the Veteran’s Home, Teen Challenge and the women’s crisis shelter.

It sounds like this brings you a lot of satisfaction. Tell us about that.

I love having people come into the shop. There are some return customers that I truly enjoy—Lindsay, Lisa and Mary are just a few. I love to watch them shop. They get so excited. They talk from the dressing room. Sometimes I get worried that other customers will think I planted them to get people to shop there.

Sounds awesome—like the beginning of a new community.  So, tell us, where are you today—It’s been three years.  Do you see yourself differently?

Definitely! I am more confident. I think I am stronger and my relationship with God is growing daily. .  I like who I am becoming.  I’m proud of what I’ve been able to accomplish, and I owe all of it to Christ!

What would you like to tell other women who might be where you were three years ago?

Starting over truly is a new beginning—A fresh slate. Allow yourself to grieve, but don’t let it dominate your thoughts. Is there something you have always wanted to do? Having a goal is good therapy. And, surround yourself with a good support system—this is vital.

Jan's story is inspiring! I can attest to the amazing way God has led and blessed her during this journey. Because you see, I am her big sister. I have watched her New Beginnings and seen her emerge as a beautiful butterfly.

I hope her story will encourage you too,

Jeanne

Update on June 20, 2015: New Beginnings Resale Boutique is no longer in operation. The Lord has brought even more new beginnings for Jan. She is doing wonderfully in her new location. Feel free to contact her via this post and I will pass it along.

Resources you may find helpful: 

One of Jan's favorite songs by Laura Story: BLESSINGS

Day 17 - 31 Day Blog Challenge