Many of us know Sojourner Truth as the formerly enslaved woman turned incredible abolitionist who gave the legendary speech “Ain’t I a Woman?”. There are many beautiful books written about her story and all her accomplishments. But reading her narrative was even more incredible. In her own words, Sojourner tells her story in the way only a great orator could.

In Sojourner’s narrative, we learn about her hardships, her family, and her escape. We also learn about her encounter with Jesus, all alone with no evangelist, church or Bible. Just Sojourner and Jesus as He envelops her in His love that changes the trajectory of her life. Despite being robbed of everything slavery could take of her, including her children and the right of literacy, Sojourner learns the Word of God and to be the mouthpiece of His Holy Spirit. She leans on God for direction and for help over and over again, including the time her youngest son had been sold illegally. Sojourner wins a lawsuit for his release, resulting in the first court win for a black woman against a white man. Sojourner’s fighting spirit and gift of speech combined with her confidence in God and obedience to His calling brings about a supernatural resilience and strength that is as inspiring to anyone who reads it today as it was when it was written 175 years ago.