Christina I 40 - Allowing my pain and trials to become bridges for others.

40 over 40 Photo Sessions

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40 over 40 Photo Sessions /

Today’s feature belongs to the remarkable Christina. She is 40 years old and FABULOUS!

Christina, share a little bit about yourself.

I was born and raised in the Bronx, NY. My mother got pregnant with me in her 3rd year of college, dropped out, and met the man that raised me as his own. They both died before my 18th birthday. My mother was diagnosed with Breast Cancer and died when I was nine. My Dad raised me as a single father as best as possible and died of heart failure when I was 17 years old. The following six years were full of trials and poor decision-making. I became a single mom by age 21, which changed my outlook. I was now responsible for someone else. This motivated me to do something more with my life. I have always loved real estate and had a passion for it. Hence, I got my license at 24 and gained experience in various fields of real estate, which led to me obtaining my Broker's license and opening up my own company, Pierre & Associates Realty. I also renovate homes and invest in rental homes to provide quality housing with single mothers ( like myself at one time) in mind. I'm a follower of Christ, a servant, a wife, a mother of 4, a sister, a friend, and a business owner.

What have been some significant points of change in your life so far? - ​How did these significant points in your life change you?

There have been many significant points of change in my life. Some changed me negatively, but the recent ones have all been for the better! The most significant was accepting Christ as my Lord and Savior. My relationship with God has changed my life in every significant way possible. For example, knowing that I’m fearfully and wonderfully made, I can be my authentic self without fear of what others think of me. I can embrace my flaws and not hide the great attributes God has gifted me with to serve others!

Have your values changed over time? What do you value now?

This is a great question! When I was younger, and before I became a follower of Christ, my values were temporal. They were superficial accomplishments. Now, I value my relationship with God, his Grace, my family, my health, and every good and perfect gift he's blessed me with. I value the time he's given us to do what he's called us to do, which brings him glory!

If you had a bucket list, what's your favorite thing you've checked off?

If I had a bucket list, I'd love to visit Israel.

What are your dreams/goals and ambitions for the future?

My dream/goal and ambition is to allow all my pain and trials to become bridges for others. To share my experiences so that I can help others overcome them!

Are there any myths you would like to bust about being over 40? If so, can you tell us about them?

None that I can think of.

What advice do you have for the younger generation?

My advice for the younger generation is not to find their identity in things, culture, or what society sets as the current trend. To be ok with being themselves the way God created them!

Christina contacted me wanting headshots for her business. As we started talking, she realized this experience would also allow her to capture images she would like her loved ones to have and cherish for a lifetime.

Christina, thank you so much for allowing me to share your story and capture these beautiful images that show your inner and outer beauty. You sincerely want to serve and help others, and is my pleasure to know and show that side of you.

Much love,

Tamara