Her story in her words

I have had so many experiences, good and bad, but the birth of 7 children is my greatest success. They are my pride and joy. I wear the scars of my life proudly and although there is a lot I would change if I could go back, I have lived with the experiences and they have formed who I am today.

What words of wisdom, based on your personal experience, would you like to share with others who struggle to see their own inner light and inner power?

Perfection is not required! You are whole, complete and perfect just the way you are. Learn to accept yourself, flaws and everything. Only when you’re standing in the light do you cast a shadow, accept and embrace your shadow-side.

How does being the woman you are today make you uniquely powerful?

I am stronger and braver than I could ever believe I could have been! My experiences are unique to me and so are my reactions. The challenges shaped who I am today and made me realise I have immense inner resources to deal with anything. Therefore, I don’t get fazed easily. It also made me very empathetic to others’ pain and suffering. Because I practise self-compassion, I am able to be compassionate towards others.

Why are beautiful photos of yourself important to you now?

For my family and grandchildren to remember me. It’s part of the legacy I will be leaving behind for them.

Editor’s note

Luanne has this wonderful calm, luminous energy, perhaps from years of being on the spiritual path, actively meditating and seeking to develop herself spiritually. But what impressed me even more was the fact that she has such a huge capacity for giving. Bringing up 7 children, and now raising grandchildren, caring for close family members and willing to foster kids who are at risk of being taken by the state, it seems she is a huge reservoir of kindness.

What also left a great impression on me was that even though she has been through pain and anguish caused by others right from her childhood, she has not been embittered by their actions. She chose to forgive them and move on and said she holds not the slightest bit of resentment towards any of them. Truly the sign of spiritual mastery.

I must confess Luanne’s life made me reflect about my own life experiences and ponder about how I can respond to them in the best and most spiritual manner.

Luanne has been wonderful to photograph and an inspiration to be with.