Some things you’ve been through? Only you and God know the full weight. But here’s what I’ll say: God don’t play about you. And when you listen to this one, you’ll feel that in your bones.

If you’ve been carrying a lot lately — quietly, heavily — come take this pause.

Come take this pause with me — let me remind you why God don’t play about you, even when it felt like everything was falling apart.

Let’s sit together for a few minutes and talk about what’s already been held, what didn’t take you out, and what still has your name on it.

Got a story about what it’s cost you to be the strong one? We’re collecting real, lived stories for the 26 Black Women Storytelling Series, and we want to hear yours.

Submit your story here → https://forms.gle/VsfFMjNjMt6eVLJp7

Come back every weekday for a new Support Pause — short, soul-soothing reflections made just for you.

About Shades of Strong®
Shades of Strong® is a space where Black women come to breathe, reflect, and reclaim strength without the struggle. Support Pauses are short, soulful reminders that you don’t have to carry it all alone. New episodes drop every weekday.

• 26 Black Women Storytelling Series
• Schedule a 1:1 Support Session
• Get the Guide: “You Know Your Support Language™—Now What?”
• Take the Support Language™ Quiz. and learn how you actually receive support best.
• Get Support Right in Your Inbox: Gentle words, real-life reflection, and soft reminders every week  

Let’s Stay Connected:

• Subscribe to Shades of Strong on Apple Podcasts or your favorite platform
•  Share this episode with a sista who’s tired of being the strong one
•  Leave a review if the episode spoke to your spirit — it helps more Black women find this space
• Follow Shades of Strong on Instagram for daily reflections on what it means to be suppoted
• www.shadesofstrong.com

Shirl  is the creator of Support Languages™ and host of Shades of Strong® — a movement shifting the narrative from Strong Black Woman to Supported Black Woman™ through language, rest, and real support.