Feel.
Some say grief is the final act of love. I’ve heard others characterize it as “love with nowhere to go.” I’ve understood – and experienced – grief in both ways. I overstand now that grief is proof of life. Proof that love once lived and remains after a transition has taken place. You might not be able to actualize the love in the same way, … Continue reading Feel.
Pray.
Truth moment: I finally watched the Oprah & Meghan interview, and one part in particular really resonated with me. Meghan spoke candidly about the morning she told her husband, Prince Harry, that she needed help because she didn’t want to live anymore. These were not abstract thoughts, she explained to O. These were methodical, repetitive, real, palpable thoughts. The couple had an official event the … Continue reading Pray.
Friends.
It’s Women’s History Month. And all I can think about are all the women who’ve been carrying me on their backs lately. And for a long time. Formerly and presently. Subtly. Without trying. Without prompting or pressure. Organically. Just lifting me up with their presence. Texts that make me smile. Musings that make ponder. Moves that inspire and motivate me. Examples of grace, strength, resilience, … Continue reading Friends.
Losses.
As I sit up, awakened by my own mind at five-something in the morning, I think “I thought these days were over.” Progress still. At least it’s not three or four. No matter how many positive vibes and how much good energy I conjure, everything isn’t always going to be “that.” There has to be balance. Duality. Two sides to the coin. And no matter … Continue reading Losses.
Wins.
win/win/verb be successful or victorious in (a contest or conflict); acquire or secure as a result of a contest, conflict, bet, or other endeavor. Nelson Mandela once said, “I never lose. I either win or I learn.” Every day, it gets easier for me to relate. It takes humility, but I get it. I speak the following affirmation to myself often now – grow through it … Continue reading Wins.
Gratitude
grat·i·tude/ˈɡradəˌt(y)o͞od/nounthe quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness. I had gotten to be quite spoiled. It’s a state of being I’m familiar with. As an only child, I’ve had my share of “not having to share,” ease, and everything being about me. Then the hard times came. And I got older. Old enough where I could make my own … Continue reading Gratitude
To Mimi: Reflections from My Inaugural Mother’s Day
5/13/15 Dear Mila, A few days ago, I celebrated my first Mother’s Day. I celebrated you and all the ways you have changed my life. The time we spent as one is forever imprinted on my mind. That you are now here, in my arms, amazes me. It seems like just a few weeks ago, I was praying for your safe delivery and good health, tearfully … Continue reading To Mimi: Reflections from My Inaugural Mother’s Day
Mood-Boosting Music, Part II: Then
If there is anything I love more than a new song to groove to, it’s an old song to groove to. I am all about throwback jams. The music of “now” has its flare but it can’t hold a candle to the music of my youth. So, here it is – my blast from the past that will always last. I hope it causes the … Continue reading Mood-Boosting Music, Part II: Then
Mood-Boosting Music, Part I: Now
I’m a busy educator and entrepreneur with a complicated mind. It’s a heavy combination. Thankfully, music is my therapy, and there are certain songs that boost my mood whenever I hear them. Here are some current songs that get me going. Hopefully, they’ll inspire you to be giddy, too. Blurred Lines by Robin Thicke, Pharrell, and T.I. This is my FAVORITE song of now (and perhaps … Continue reading Mood-Boosting Music, Part I: Now
Roles Redefined
I believe in roles — I’m just not a huge fan of rigid, gender-based ones (especially in relationships). Someone argued to me that these roles are nature. No, having a penis or a vagina is nature. What we learn about what people with those parts are able to/should do is nurture. Little girls can play basketball and boys can be gymnasts. If my man is … Continue reading Roles Redefined
