Heeled: Walking From Pain to Purpose

The legendary American jazz vocalist Ella Fitzgerald said it best, "It isn't where you come from; it's where you're going that counts." Born on April 25th in Newport, Virginia, Ella's early life was marked by hardships. Her parents never married, and her mother tragically passed away when she was just fifteen due to a car accident. Ella faced challenges and a difficult upbringing, including allegations of abuse and periods of homelessness. Yet, her love for music remained unwavering.

In January 1935, an opportunity arose that would change Ella's life forever. She participated in a vocal contest at the Amateur Nights at the Apollo Theater and emerged victorious. From that moment, a new chapter began for Ella, brimming with obstacles and challenges in an era of discrimination and racial separatism. Despite criticism and being banned for her civil rights activism, Ella continued to dream, work hard, and forge her path forward.

This anthology, inspired by Ella's journey, delves into the lives of women who have faced their own twists, bumps, and curves. Each story reflects their resilience, suffrage, tenacity, and unwavering faith in God. They wear the stiletto as a metaphor-a symbol of navigating through life's trials with grace and strength. Just as Ella's purity of tone and impeccable diction made her a revered figure in American history, they, too, have woven their unique narratives into the fabric of their collective experiences.

Join them in this anthology, as they share our stories, demonstrating how faith and trust in God have lovingly guided them from pain to purpose. Discover the transformative power of resilience and the remarkable journeys of women who refuse to be defined by their past, embracing their true potential.

Dr. Linda Harvey, acclaimed author and compiler of this empowering anthology, invites you to explore the depths of these testimonies and be inspired by the indomitable spirit of women who have overcome adversity to find their purpose.