A Ray of Light in the Shadows: A Testimony of Gratitude from our Sister, Michele

As an African child, pursuing education abroad was not just a dream but a mission—a chance to rise above the shadows of colonial legacies, embrace new opportunities, and return home equipped to inspire change. But life’s journey, as unpredictable as the tides, often pulls us into depths we never imagined.

I arrived in the United States from Côte d’Ivoire during a time of political unrest, carrying the weight of my family’s hopes and dreams. My upbringing, steeped in the principles of politics, law, and media, gave me a foundation to dream of contributing to my family’s legacy while also creating an organic textile economy celebrating African patterns and traditions. But the war shattered that path, leaving me vulnerable, financially unsupported, and burdened with the pressure of survival.

In those darkest moments, I couldn’t stand on my own, but I managed to complete my degree and work in California as an accountant. From there, I branched out in West Africa for more lead roles in management, marketing, and event coordination for different organizations plus a few projects to manage. Now, in 2024-2025, I am back in Oregon after spending three years in Côte d’Ivoire working on three major projects. The transition back to the U.S. has been challenging and has drained my resources. I found myself feeling weak again, at the bottom of the social ladder, facing stereotypes, minimal opportunities due to age, gender, and being “new” once more. Emotionally, I was drowning.

But then, Julia held my hand and brought me to the Catholic Sisters. I’ll admit, I had little faith in strangers at first. Yet now I see that it was truly the hand of God working through their open hearts. Their genuine kindness and unwavering support have helped me trust again—that even among women who are different from me, there is room to create deeper roots, built on a foundation of compassion, true faith, and shared humanity.

Through the Sisters of Lane County and the Catholic community, I saw a ray of light touch my life. Your kindness, your prayers, and your belief in me fueled my spirit when I felt like giving up. From emotional encouragement to tangible support, you reminded me of the strength that lies in community and faith.

Today, I am slowly standing back up. I have completed my education, weathered the storm of an abusive marriage, raised a daughter during the challenges of the pandemic, and now teach as a guest teacher for the school district. Every small step forward feels like a miracle, and I owe it to the generosity and love of people who believed in me when I couldn’t believe in myself.

An African proverb says, "If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together." To the women and friends who extended their hands to me through the Sisters of Lane County, you are the reason I am still moving forward. Your light has touched my life in ways I can never fully express, and your support reminds me that resilience is a collective strength.

To every woman struggling with crumbling castles of dreams and hope: know that even in the darkest valleys, God sends His light through the kindness of others. To the Sisters and all the friends I have met along the way, I offer my deepest gratitude. You are the reason my story continues to unfold, and I will forever hold you in my prayers.

With love and endless thanks,
Michele Oka