Fall is thriving in New York! We’ve surprisingly had some warm days, so I took advantage of the beautiful weather to wear this cute leopard print look.
Has anyone else noticed that autumn has its own crisp, clean scent? It’s honestly one of my favorite smells. The first time I noticed it, I wanted to bottle it up. It’s so refreshing—and, honestly, pumpkin spice doesn’t even compare. Yes, I said it!
Now, let’s talk about fall fashion. This outfit combines so many things I love: leopard print, boots, pearls, bag charms, and my current obsession—brooches and pins.
I ordered several pins from Amazon and have been adding them to all my hats and denim jackets. As you can see, this denim vest has a few pearl pins and brooches. I’m constantly complimented on my hats, and I love how small accessories can make an outfit feel personal and unique.
Moving on to another subject, this feels like the right time to talk about something I’ve experienced throughout my life, from being bullied by girls in elementary/middle school, to dealing with envy and jealousy within church communities, family members, workspaces and even experiencing it during my time as an influencer by other influencers-content creators.
Jealousy and envy are incredibly toxic. They often come from comparison, insecurity, or resentment toward someone else’s beauty, personality, talent, success, relationships, opportunities, or joy. Instead of appreciating what they have, some people become consumed by what they believe someone else possesses.
Unfortunately, I’ve witnessed this behavior in church spaces as well. Church should be a place of love, support, humility, and spiritual growth, but it is still filled with imperfect people. There can be “mean girls” in church too, and being surrounded by people who use faith as a cover for gossip, competition, exclusion, or sabotage can be deeply hurtful.
The Bible makes it clear that envy does not come from God. Envy creates disorder, bitterness, and strife, while love is patient, kind, and not jealous or boastful. God calls us to be content, to celebrate one another, and to trust that what He has for us does not need to be taken from anyone else.
I’ve learned that I cannot control how others feel about me, but I can control how I respond. I can choose not to compete, retaliate, gossip, or allow someone else’s insecurity to change my character. I can pray for discernment, remain humble, and keep my heart free from bitterness.
I’ve also learned that forgiveness does not mean giving everyone unlimited access to me. Healthy boundaries are necessary. Protecting my privacy, peace, time, and personal life has become essential. I no longer feel obligated to explain everything, share everything, or remain available to people who repeatedly show me that they cannot be trusted.
The less access certain people have to my life, the more peaceful I feel. That isn’t about being cruel or thinking I’m better than anyone—it’s about wisdom, discernment, and stewardship. Even Jesus understood the importance of withdrawing, resting, and being selective about who He allowed close to Him.
If you’re dealing with jealousy or envy from others, remember:
– Don’t take the bait or allow them to pull you into unnecessary conflict.
– Keep your boundaries firm and your personal life private.
– Refuse to respond with jealousy, revenge, or gossip.
– Pray for wisdom and protection.
– Continue working on your character and purpose.
– Celebrate others without abandoning yourself.
– Remember that someone else’s envy cannot cancel what God has ordained for you.
God does not call us to shrink, hide our gifts, or apologize for being blessed. He calls us to walk in humility, love, wisdom, and peace. Not everyone will celebrate you, but you can still remain kind without being naïve, generous without being unprotected, and confident without becoming prideful.
Be Lovely, Be You
Charlene Gonzalez
