In this unforgettable episode of Rooted, Josie and Simone sit down with Ruth Ann, an 84-year-old woman whose life story is woven with the unshakable power of prayer, radical forgiveness, and deep joy in the face of tragedy. From growing up in a Christian home during the 1940s to experiencing deep rebellion, grief, and loss—including being hit by a train just like her mother—Ruth Ann has seen God’s hand in every season. She shares how a foundation of daily prayer, Scripture, and God’s steadfast love helped her through devastating moments—like her mother’s sudden death, a broken marriage, and the painful loss of her daughter. Her words will make you laugh, cry, and pause in awe of God’s grace. If you’ve ever wondered what it means to finish the race with joy, this episode is a front-row seat to a life rooted in faith.

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• [01:00] — Holy jeans, humor, and growing up in the 1940s
• [03:00] — A Christian childhood marked by daily prayer
• [06:00] — Rebellion in high school, sneaking out, and early marriage at seventeen
• [08:00] — Tragic death of her mother in a train accident
• [10:00] — Becoming a young single mom, finding love again
• [14:00] — Struggling to forgive and learning to pray for enemies
• [17:00] — Her husband’s quiet transformation through prayer
• [18:00] — God’s protection during her own train accident
• [20:00] — Living each day with the mission to encourage someone
• [22:00] — How to start praying if you don’t know how
• [26:00] — Losing her husband and daughter—and still choosing joy
• [28:00] — Loving people without loving what they do
• [29:00] — Final encouragement: Stay rooted in God’s love and keep smiling

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1. "I thought I was going to see Jesus… and somehow I walked away from the train."
2. "Keep praying. You may not see it yet—but one day you will."
3. "I never stopped believing. Even through rebellion, grief, and loss—Jesus never left me."
4. "You don’t need long prayers. Just be consistent and keep talking to God."
5. "My mother’s prayers are why I’m still here."
6. "When you can’t forgive someone, start praying for them. The rest will come."
7. "Stay in the Word. That’s where the joy comes from."
8. "If anyone asks why I’m smiling—it’s because I have Jesus in my heart."

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• Psalm 91 – Ruth Ann often prays this chapter over others
• Scripture for prayer encouragement – "Call those things that be not as though they are" (Romans 4:17)
• Worship Prayer – "This is the day that the Lord has made…" (Psalm 118:24)
• Song Mentioned – Keep on Praying (artist not specified, but referenced by theme)

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