Magazine Features

After reconciling with her brother and learning he was battling addiction, Ashby Collins believed they were finally moving toward recovery. His sudden death days later forced her to confront grief, responsibility, and the limits of what love can control—ultimately teaching her that she can still serve, lead, and help others while healing herself.

Grief does not always wait for death. Sometimes it arrives slowly while the person you love is still sitting beside you. I loved the father in front of me while grieving the father I remembered, carrying the responsibilities of leadership as strength and sorrow learned to share the same seat.

Thirty-Five Days in the Fire: How God Taught Me to Lead Through Fear, Faith, and Spiritual Battle