My elementary and middle school years were a combination of the usual awkwardness associated with the “tween” years and facing the difficulty of a parent with severe depression at home. I have quietly tucked away the goofy school photos that exposed braces, glasses and a slick backed bangs of the too tight ponytail. Even worse the months of wearing a heart monitor while the doctor tried to diagnose a varying heart rhythm that would cause bouts of both fainting and the inability to catch my breath. My fragile self-esteem was tested by having to walk on eggshells due to my father’s unpredictable behavior. When these emotions were too much for me to handle, I retreated to safety of my room and released these unspoken emotions into the pages of a journal both through words and pictures.
By the time I entered high school, a new Krista was slowly emerging; having discovered that new experiences offered great rewards, I embraced many activities. Competitive cheerleading which combines tumbling, stunts and traditional cheer, provided an opportunity for developing self-discipline, a feeling of accomplishment and a sister-like camaraderie. Traveling to national competitions developed my sense of adventure and leadership skills to the point that I served as captain of the squad. My leadership skills were further developed as I attended the statewide leadership Summit. I discovered my gift of empathy and served as a peer mentor, with a self-realized understanding that my past emotional trauma could allow me to serve and understand the emotional needs of others.
After winning a presidential scholarship to Drake University, I began my college years fully charged with the goal of pursuing psychology and expanding my wings. While in college I continued to cheer for the Drake Bulldogs, a Cinderella basketball team that won the conference title and competed in the NCAA tournaments – Go Big Blue! During that event I was selected to co-host an ESPN spotlight. I also joined a sorority that was instrumental in helping me realize the importance of volunteering. During these years I also began to un-ravel the tangle of emotions brought on by a difficult relationship with my Father. I was able to separate the person from the illness and as he began to heal through counseling, our family was reunited. It took me a very long time to gain understanding and finally forgiveness, but day by day, our relationship was progressing in a positive direction.
While volunteering with abused and neglected children my passion to help others was fine-tuned. I believe that God finally answered my prayers for guidance. I know that my past emotional struggles, artistic talents and feeling of compassion for abused children are God-given gifts designed to help my live a life in which I can help other reach their full potential. My education is not complete, as I intend to pursue a Master of Psychology with the goal of becoming a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, specializing in Art therapy. After securing the title of Miss Minnesota International I was offered the position of Healing Arts Spokesperson for the International Child Art Foundation, serving the emotional needs of children who have survived nature disasters.
I never imagined that the shy, little girl who loved to draw her feelings would one day be given the opportunity to serve as Miss International 2012. I know that this experience will enrich my ability to heal the hearts of children as I travel to promote the healing power of creative expression.
“God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.”
Proverbs 3:3-4
Yours most gratefully,
Krista Wanous
Miss International 2012
