Living A Dream

Have you ever put your heart and soul and prayed for God's will to be done, and at the same time hoping what you want and what God will are the same? Ever since I competed in the Miss Teen Arkansas International three years ago, my heart has been with the international system and in hopes of one day being the one to represent our state with the best title. Today I am living that dream!

If you set your mind to something, give it your all, and believe in your self the best thing will happen. April 9th, 2017 I was crowned Miss Arkansas International 2017, a dream I have had for a very long time. As the pageant was approaching I prepared mentally and physically. I knew this could be an experience of a life time and a dream come true. In years past competing for pageants I would be stressed and so nervous that I would loose who I was and forget why I was competing. When I decided to compete for the title of Miss Arkansas International I knew right then I would have a different approach and mindset... The preparation of competing does not start the night before. Throughout the entire process I was myself, I had fun, I laughed, and I was focused.

Once the pageant arrived I got to meet all the amazing contestants; new faces and familiar faces. The great thing about the International Pageants is that you are a part of a family, and that is how we all were that weekend. I cannot count how many times all of us laughed and really bonded as a sisterhood should. We all supported each other, from zipping up dresses to practicing anything and everything with each other.

I have such an amazing support system that has given me support, motivation, and many laughs each day while competing. During the weekend I knew that I did everything I could and that I was prepared to hit that stage and show who I am to the judges. I have never had so much fun! My mom and I would sit in the room and laughed until we cried over something so little. It was so perfect!

As we were about to walk into the interview the current title holder grabbed our hands and said a quick prayer. I knew I would go into my interview and give it all I had and be the person I am. In between each judge I smiled so big because this was such an amazing opportunity to be here, to tell my story, and how I want to make a difference.

The next day was the day we stepped onto the stage to compete. I woke up that morning, had my coffee, said my prayer, and knew that whatever happens is in God's plan. The pageant went very fast. Once we were done with one phase of competition we prepared for the next phase. Then it was time for awards and crowning.. this was the moment I became very nervous! Each award was called, and my heart started to beat faster and faster. I then was announced as the winner. I was so excited and in awe that all my hand could do was stay over my heart and tears coming out of my eyes. It is a feeling that I have never felt before. I am so humbled, honored, and blessed to have this title. I am so excited to represent the wonderful state of Arkansas, and to represent Arkansas at Miss International 2017!

No matter what your goal or dream is believe in yourself, give it your all, and trust God!

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Jeremiah 29:11

Haley Bird

Miss Arkansas International 2017