In my young adult years, I had a hard time being seen for who I was.
I was always identified by where I grew up, whose sister I was or who I hung out with. Although I loved those aspects of myself, I was more.
As years went on, I had to make choices for my happiness. Choices often opposite of what I thought was expected of me. That meant becoming vulnerable to change and criticism.
That shift came with a yearning to experience more of what life had to offer. I began to look outside the walls put in place by others and myself to live a life God wanted me to live.
I began to capture these experiences in my writing. This became a way for me to purge, process and heal.
This blog is that journey and it continues. A journey full of love, tears, pride and lots of laughs.
Thanks for joining me.
Love Offerings from the Kitchen
When I grew up, we had dinner together around the dining room table. In the kitchen, my mother was the primary cook of all the meals.
There were times me or my sister had to get dinner started if we arrived home before our mother. I made many mistakes, but they were never criticized at the table. But we all knew when it was bad; like the time I fried the chicken too fast.
Losing a Friend
Marnita was a friend, but I never told her that. I cared for her and was frustrated by her. Although we disagreed on many things, we could agree on what was funny. We laughed together like nobody’s business.
Navigating Disappointments
What a whirlwind!
I expected to be on my first international flight to Africa.
I was prepared with a neck pillow and blanket to keep me comfortable during the long flight.
I was excited to place my feet on the ground of the continent of my ancestors. I was filled with anticipation to experience what I had seen in videos, a crowd of people welcoming us in song and dance as we exited the plane.
No, I Don't Want Your Jewelry
When my father passed away, I remember loading my Ford Edge with suits, hats, coats, and sweaters to donate to a clothing ministry in Columbus. These were only a fraction of the items from his closet.
Considering all the material items left being by our loved ones when they pass, I ask a question and confirm a fact, “How do we collect so much stuff to be left behind? And, “All that stuff means nothing compared to the chance to talk with that person one more time.”
Be Kind, on Purpose…to Yourself
A challenge I hear often is, “Go out and be kind on purpose.” My husband says this phrase when closing his Monday morning Facebook Live prayer time.
It’s a wonderful reminder to start the week. Yet, in being kind to others, we forget to be kind to ourselves.