By Tammy Whitaker
Editor
In a world full of expectations, societal norms, and internal doubts, one woman is challenging the notion that we need anyone else’s approval to live fully—and she’s doing it with purple hair, a passport full of stamps, and a bold sense of self. That woman is me.
For many, personal growth is often imagined as something that comes from the outside: the right job, the perfect relationship, a bigger paycheck. I had also bought into that nonsense until I realized that I was looking at things the wrong way. What I needed was something much more, but harder to find: permission. Permission to try. Permission to fail. Permission to speak up. Permission to evolve. Permission to explore. Permission to be who you are really meant to be. Permission isn’t something anyone else needs to give you. It’s already yours— and is just waiting for you to claim it.
In a reflective conversation with myself about my life journey, I’ve come to realize that breaking the invisible rules set by others—and sometimes by my own fears—helped me grow into the person I was always meant to be.
From Purple Hair to Passport Stamps
My small acts of defiance have turned into symbols of self-acceptance. My decision to dye my hair purple has been met with curious stares—but more often, admiration. The number of people who’ve given me weird looks is far fewer than the number of women who’ve stopped me to say they love it!
Next came the tattoo—a long-considered step into permanent self-expression. I got my first tattoo just last Christmas, alongside my children. I chose a design that represents the people I cherish most. It was a milestone moment and I’m already thinking about my next one!
Adventure, Acceptance, and Authenticity
My life has been anything but stationary. From the hills of Kentucky to the beaches of Florida, the mountains of Colorado, the coastlines of Massachusetts, and eventually Texas, I’ve followed a winding path guided by curiosity and courage. I’ve determined I’m a gypsy at heart! Moving has given me the chance to rewrite my story each time and discover new layers of who I am.
My love of exploring didn’t stop at state lines. My husband and I have traveled across Europe—from Iceland to Norway, from Amsterdam to Germany. Next on our bucket list is England, Scotland and Ireland with our kids and grandkids this Christmas. After that? Who knows? Possibly Portugal, Greece, or Croatia. Traveling has taught me that my world is not THE world! There’s so much more out there than what we grew up around.
A Voice Once Silenced Now Leads the Way
I grew up in the era of “children should be seen and not heard”. That mindset, along with being told often during my school years that I “talked too much” never did set well with me. But what was once framed as a flaw has become a defining strength.
“It’s my ability to connect with people that’s brought me so many opportunities,” she reflects. An old classmate once commented about how much I’ve changed since high school. Yes, I’ve changed a lot and I thank God every day that I have.
A Call to Action
My message isn’t just about hair color or travel plans—it’s about internal liberation. It’s about realizing that the gatekeeper of our potential is often the voice inside our own head.
To anyone feeling stuck, hesitant, or unsure, I ask you this:
“What’s one thing you’ve been waiting to give yourself permission to do?
As you read this today, let this be your sign: the wait is over.”
