O Divine One, You who crown the humble with Your favor, Place upon my head a crown not made of gold, But of mercy, of wisdom, of grace unearned yet freely given. Let the sun that warms my skin be a reminder of Your light, The wind that brushes my face a whisper of Your presence, And the earth beneath my feet a symbol of Your steady foundation. Crown me with grace that flows like a river, Washing over my doubts, my fears, my striving. Let my spirit wear Your peace as a mantle, And may my steps walk only in paths You have blessed. May I stand with my head lifted high, Not in pride, but in gratitude — For each breath is Your gift, And each day is a chance to reflect Your glory. Crowned by grace, May I be a vessel of love, A voice of hope, And a testimony of the beauty That blooms when a life is touched by the Divine. Amen. “Crowned by Grace” is a celebration of spiritual and cultural identity. Inspired by the resilience of African women, the work reflects how grace — both divine and ancestral — adorns and uplifts even in the simplest moments. From the hat, a symbol of culture and labor, to the serene gaze, each element speaks of favor, heritage, and inner peace. This piece is a prayer, a reflection, and a tribute to the grace that carries us through life’s journey.