Kenyan media personality Grace Sowairina Msalame is approaching a major milestone—her 39th birthday. As she nears the end of her 30s, the mother of three is taking time to reflect on the past decade, the lessons she has learned, and the personal growth that has shaped her journey.
What started as a simple list of “30 Life Lessons” evolved into a heartfelt letter about her faith and how her experiences have deepened her relationship with God.
“I had a moment recently when I realized that I will be turning 39 this year. I started wondering if I am really where I thought I would be. But as I went through my reflections, I saw that this decade—which I was so excited about in my twenties—was actually the decade where I would truly know God for myself. And by knowing Him, I would understand what He has called me to.”
Her reflections offer wisdom on embracing change, letting go of fear, and prioritizing what truly matters. Here are some of the key insights she has shared on her social media:
1. Speak Up!
“Especially as a woman, it takes a lot of courage to say what we really want or need to say, often out of fear of not being heard or received well. But speak up regardless.”
2. Fear Not!
“Fear is often what holds us back from speaking up or taking action. But remember, you have not been given a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind. Faith and fear cannot coexist in one space—you must drop one to embrace the other.”
3. It’s Okay to Make Mistakes
“Make mistakes, learn from them, and don’t be condemned by them. Only the enemy brings shame. Instead, choose to learn and allow yourself to grow with each experience.”
4. Forgive, and Do It Quickly
“Whether it’s your child who has made a mistake, your spouse who has hurt you, or even a stranger on social media, forgive quickly! It’s a commandment for a reason. Holding onto grudges only burdens you. Leave them at Christ’s feet and move forward.”
5. Laugh!
“Seriously, laugh! (Try it right now as you read this.) Life is already full of enough challenges—be intentional about finding joy. True joy comes from Christ, and the world cannot take it away.”
6. Move Your Body
“Walk, swim, hit the gym—whatever works for you, just move! Your body will either thank you or punish you in your thirties, depending on how well you take care of it.”
7. Give Generously
“Give, and it will come back to you—good measure, pressed down, shaken together (Luke 6:38). But don’t give just to receive; give because love gives.”
8. Surrender Is Not an Option—It’s a Necessity
“We can’t figure it all out, no matter how smart or successful we are. It’s all by the grace of God. There is peace in letting go and allowing Him to order your steps.”
9. Christ Finished It All at the Cross
“Sickness, disease—by His stripes, we were healed. The next time you face a challenge, read His word, confess it, and believe it. Faith without works is dead.”
10. When You Fall, Get Up and Keep Going
“Scripture reminds us that a righteous person falls seven times but rises again each time. Failure is not final—dust yourself off and keep moving forward.”
by MAUREEN WARUINGE
