5 Things We Learned About Ciara from Her ESSENCE Cover Story

Ciara was destined to become a superstar–she dreamt about it, wrote it down, prayed on it and after all she’s been through, one by one her dreams have surely come true.

She’s an award-winning singer, a fashion favorite, a marvelous mother and a soon-to-be beautiful bride. In the May anniversary issue of ESSENCE, Ciara sat down and shared some of her life’s greatest joys. Here are five things we learned about the star.

Ciara Graces First ESSENCE Cover, Talks Motherhood and Engagement to Russell Wilson

1. Michael Jackson was the catalyst for her dreams of stardom
“I remember watching Michael in his shiny suit singing “Rock with You” and thinking, I know I can do that one day!” she said. “So I just made up my mind.”

2. She always wanted to be a mother
“I’d always wanted to have my own family,” she said. “And my pregnancy was planned when I was at a point in my life when I was finally ready to take on the responsibility.”

3. Her grandparent’s love story inspired her pursuit of life-long bliss
“They were married for 55 years. We lost my grandfather five years ago, and they were in love until his very last day. He was literally in her arms. That’s the kind of love I want. A true love that can outlast and withstand anything.”

4. She loves her future husband, Russell Wilson’s humility
“He’s awesome. He’s the kind of man who would give his jacket to a stranger.”

5. She doesn’t dwell on life’s shortcomings
“You have to ask yourself, How do I want my life to be? Even if something has gone wrong, you have to see not only what the other person may have done but also the wrong decisions you’ve made. Then you have to figure out where you’re going next and stay focused on the plan you have for yourself. That’s what helps you respond to a moment of adversity.”

Pick up the May issue of ESSENCE—on newsstands on April 15—for more on Ciara, Russell, Future, and that swoon-worthy engagement ring.