Reed’s Reads of Wisdom Wednesdays: Friends, Not Foes—Building Trust and Strength Through Unity

On this 5th day of Women’s History Month, we celebrate the strength of women, the necessity of trust, and the power of unity in the face of adversity. Throughout history, women have led revolutions, shaped societies, and fought for justice—not just for themselves but for generations to come. From warriors on the battlefield to activists in the streets, women have demonstrated time and time again that they are not just allies in the fight for progress but often the leaders of it.

This week’s Reed’s Reads of Wisdom Wednesdays takes inspiration from Chapter 5: “Friends, Not Foes” in Book II of S.O.L.A.D.™: Soldiers of Light Against Darkness™. In this chapter, Angelo (Kevin Edwards) and Angeline (Juanita Grayson) struggle to prove that they are allies, not enemies, despite being met with suspicion and resistance.

This scenario mirrors the challenges that women have faced throughout history—proving themselves in leadership, earning trust in male-dominated spaces, and forging alliances in movements that often overlooked their contributions.

In today’s post, we will explore:

How alliances built on trust are crucial for victory.
How women in history have transformed resistance into collaboration.
Why true strength is found in unity, not division.

Whether on the battlefield, in leadership, or within social movements, one thing remains clear: progress is only possible when we stand together rather than against each other.

The Challenge of Being Seen as an Ally

In Friends, Not Foes, Angelo and Angeline attempt to convince law enforcement that they are not a threat, only to be met with hostility and skepticism. Chief Grayson accuses them of being responsible for the chaos, demanding that they surrender.

📖 Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (NKJV):"Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up."

This moment reflects a broader historical struggle where women have had to repeatedly prove their worth and ability to lead:

During the fight for women’s suffrage, activists like Sojourner Truth and Susan B. Anthony had to convince men (and even other women) that they deserved the right to vote.
In the Civil Rights Movement, leaders like Fannie Lou Hamer, Dorothy Height, and Coretta Scott King fought not only against racial injustice but also for recognition in a movement often led by men.
Even in today’s world, women in politics, law enforcement, and military service must often work twice as hard to be seen as equals in leadership and decision-making.

Angeline and Angelo do not argue their worth with words—they prove it through their actions. This mirrors the reality for women throughout history: trust is not given freely—it is earned through resilience, skill, and determination.

When Unity is Tested—The Moment of Truth

As Angeline and Angelo prepare to comply with Chief Grayson’s orders, Jeff suddenly spots a greater threat—winged demon soldiers preparing to attack. This moment is critical because it forces Angelo and Angeline to make a choice: do they stand by and let those who accused them suffer, or do they take action and save the very people who doubted them?

📖 Proverbs 31:8-9 (NKJV):"Open your mouth for the speechless, in the cause of all who are appointed to die. Open your mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy."

This is a pivotal moment, both in the novel and in real-world history. Time and time again, women have stepped into leadership and action, even when they were doubted, underestimated, or outright excluded:

When Black women like Rosa Parks and Diane Nash took leadership roles in the Civil Rights Movement, many believed they should remain in the background. Instead, their actions spoke louder than words.
Women in STEM fields such as Katherine Johnson and Marie Curie were often dismissed, yet their contributions changed the world.
Even today, female activists and leaders like Malala Yousafzai fight for education and equality in places where women’s voices are often silenced.

Angeline and Angelo could have chosen to walk away—but instead, they chose to fight for justice, proving that true strength is defined not by perception, but by action.

The Strength of Women in Battle—Angeline’s Defining Moment

After saving the officers from the demon attack, Angeline comes face to face with Titan, a massive, arrogant demon soldier who mocks her, calling her weak simply because she is a woman.

📖 Judges 4:9 (NKJV):"So she said, 'I will surely go with you; nevertheless, there will be no glory for you in the journey you are taking, for the Lord will sell Sisera into the hand of a woman.' Then Deborah arose and went with Barak to Kedesh."

Titan’s words reflect the same outdated beliefs that have been used to keep women from leadership, combat roles, and positions of power throughout history:

When Deborah led Israel’s army, many doubted her—yet she led them to victory.
When women fought for their right to serve in military combat, they were told they were not strong enough—yet today, they serve on the front lines.
When female entrepreneurs and CEOs first entered business, they were told they didn’t belong—yet now they lead some of the world’s largest companies.

Angeline does not respond to Titan’s words—she responds with action. She steps forward and fights him directly, proving that strength is not about gender, but about courage and ability.

Lessons from Friends, Not Foes for Women’s History Month

1. Trust is Built Through Action, Not Words

Angelo and Angeline had to prove they were allies—not through speeches, but through bravery and selflessness.
Women throughout history have built trust by standing firm in leadership, despite obstacles.
True partnerships are formed in action, not in assumption.

📖 James 2:17 (NKJV):"Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead."

2. Strength is Not Defined by Gender, But by Courage

Titan underestimated Angeline—but history proves that women rise in the face of doubt.
Women have led revolutions, shaped societies, and fought battles, proving their resilience time and time again.
We must continue to dismantle outdated stereotypes and recognize that strength has no gender.

📖 Philippians 4:13 (NKJV):"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

🔥 Continue the Fight—Read More in ***S.O.L.A.D.™*! 🔥**

Friends, Not Foes is a powerful reminder that strength is proven in action, trust is built in battle, and unity is the key to victory. Women’s history is filled with examples of those who refused to be seen as enemies, instead choosing to fight together for a greater cause.

📖 Order your autographed copy today:🔗 www.tyronetonyreedjr.com/the-shop

🌟 We are stronger together. History has proven it. Now, let’s keep building the future. 🌟