“Know Your Worth. Then Add Tax.”

This is an abridged version of Rev. Susan Sparks Pride Sermon. Watch the full sermon.

I have a granddaughter who, when she was younger, loved to wear tiaras. The moment she put one on, she stood taller, moved with confidence, and had a sparkle in her eye—like she knew she was royalty. Granted, adding attitude to a three-year-old can be risky—but it was also beautiful to witness.

What was it about that tiara that helped her believe a little more in her own greatness? Maybe it was the glitter. Maybe it was the ten thousand Disney movies she loved to watch. Or maybe it was something deeper—a basic longing to wear a crown.

In a way, I think we all have that longing. And, every gift shop in America knows it. You’ll see items with messages like “Queen for a Day” or “You Rule!” A few weeks ago, I found a little zip bag (I have a thing for those) that said, “Know your worth. Then add tax.” That’s the goal for us all—no matter our age, race, gender, abilities or background. We are called to know our worth. And then add tax.

Of course, that’s not easy in today’s world. We’re bombarded by messages of judgment and shame designed to tear us down and steal our dignity. For emotional survival if nothing else, I think we need to find ourselves a tiara.

Let’s go back to Madeleine’s tiara. Why did hers work?

First, it was inspired by empowering stories—Brave, Frozen, Moana. These stories showed her what she could be. We all need that. We must surround ourselves with people and messages of possibility and hope—especially in a world that often tells us what we can’t do or shouldn’t be. This church can be one of those safe spaces—a sanctuary of affirmation and love.

Second, the tiara was sparkly. It was festive. Joy matters. We live in a dim, painful world, and sometimes the most powerful act is to do something kind and celebratory for ourselves. Last week, I was in CVS behind a woman who was clearly in a bad mood. When she reached the counter, she ordered a balloon. When the clerk asked if it was for someone’s birthday, she said, “No, I’m just having a really bad day.” Take time to remind yourself that amid the world’s cruelty, you are worth celebrating.

Third, and most importantly, that tiara reminded my granddaughter of what her parents told her everyday – that she is loved and she is special. It’s true for us as well. We are created in God’s image — crowned with love and purpose. When we truly believe that, we carry ourselves differently. We shine. We radiate.

Psalm 34:5 says, “Look to the Lord and be radiant; so your faces shall never be ashamed.” That’s the invitation: Be radiant. Live as the royal child of God that you are. Remember your worth. And then add tax. As the great theologian Howard Thurman once wrote,

“God has placed a crown above your head
so that you will spend your life
growing tall enough to wear it.”