Chrystal Hurst argues that real influence comes from living as your authentic self. She shares her story as a teen mother with a blended family, saying honest, unhidden stories are part of God's design. Authenticity is your calling card in whatever sphere you occupy.
Authenticity, being who God created you to be, that is the anchor of your— that's the key word— your influence. What God designed you to be, what no one else can do in your scope of influence, in your family, at your job, at your church. Your authenticity is your calling card. I'm saying what I'm saying is because I've been told I have a gift of practicality of faith, that I'm willing to tell you that I cussed the dry cleaner out. I mean, there's some things in my life I can't hide. I was a teen mother. It is what it is. I have a blended family. My husband and I each brought one to the plate. So no, I wasn't a virgin when I got married because I was fooling around having babies. I'm just saying, like, it is what it is. So there is a reality in my life that I can't hide. And I think for me, the Lord just said, girl, you can't hide that, so don't hide the rest of it. Like, you know, be smart. Everybody doesn't need to know everything, but tell them the truth. So I can be honest with you, and that is my calling card.
