Amanda’s life was never a bed of roses, as she constantly lived on extremes. From personal experience, like going through a miscarriage, being under heavy debt, suffering depression, embracing motherhood, marriage, and then divorce. But this isn’t just it; as a ship crew member constantly travelling around the globe as a part of her job, she opened three yoga studios and lived across continents.
How overwhelming would it be to live such a life over twenty years? Amanda has always firmly believed that there is a purpose behind everything that happens in life. Even though whenever she had to tell someone about being a divorcee, it was harsh on her. Such moments did shatter her, but being a courageous woman, she constantly worked on herself, and every time she fell, she rose stronger than ever.
In 2018, Amanda’s life changed unexpectedly and dramatically when she embraced what most women await: motherhood. It was also when Amanda’s husband started a congressional campaign, so the public scrutiny she faced for 18 months was relentless. Despite all the circumstances, they won; however, the burden of many new beginnings took over her life. From juggling between being a perfect mother and keeping the marriage stable, the integration of politics made her want to disappear. Standing in front of the mirror, it felt like Amanda had lost herself on the journey.
Call it her luck or fate’s plan, but she knew she had to protect her identity and reclaim her voice. Finding your old self can be long, but it’s worth it. This was one reason she was all set to revive at her lowest point. Thus, she took therapy, journaled regularly, did yoga, and took all her medications. The self-reflection she got over time was precisely what she needed, as she did not want all the sufferings and work to define her, but herself!
It was a four-year journey, and in between came the divorce. However, rather than shattering herself, Amanda found authenticity was more important than perfection. Especially as women, we spend our lives making others comfortable and hiding all the compromises and pain, and in the process, without realizing it, we end up abandoning ourselves. Is it not the biggest tyranny of all time?
It was proven how committed Amanda was to authenticity when asked to contribute as a columnist and endorse a gubernatorial candidate. In that moment, she chose complete silence but said yes because of her strong values, despite knowing that such a strong decision would provoke criticism.
After making the decision, people started questioning her, including those who did not even know her personally or her complete story. She was asked what she would tell her son when he finally understood things, and she was open to saying that she would tell her son the truth.
Her story is perfect for those grieving for separation, those who look forward to building their identities, or those who fear those who judge them. She wants to address how silence is complicity, whether it is about your personal life or against injustice. Whether it was regarding her divorce, raising her baby, or politics, Amanda chose the path her morals and values allowed her to, and this is one thing she never regrets. Her strength and courage prove how easy honesty can make things for you, or at least keep you at peace.
Amanda firmly believes in transparency and honesty, as they are the best gifts one can give society and oneself! Without self-love, one might reach places, but would it be worth it if one loses oneself on the way?
