I embrace the best parts of her unconditional love for me. I carry her kindness, compassion, and wisdom in my spirit, as do her grandchildren. The seeds she planted in me will carry for generations to come. 

Being able to simply exist has been liberating. Being has allowed myself the space and grace to find my way back to the pen. I am living proof that you can have a plan, not like it, scrap it, and start a new one in the totally opposite direction tomorrow.

I’d moved with little money, one friend in the city, no real knowledge of my new surroundings….and hope. I knew I wanted more, and I knew I could do it. I also knew I wasn’t afraid or wouldn’t be ashamed to return home if it didn’t work out. I’d never been more afraid in my life.

Uncle Woody is proof to me that I was severely short changed in the father department. He was The Opening Act, the bonus to my visits. The ultimate girl dad, Unc is kindhearted, and always has a light up the room smile for you. He is sturdy and firm, but gentle. I guess with four girls(five if you include the boss), not only is a long fuse required, but you have to have a dash of softness to you.

May your home be a safe haven. May your path be well lit. May you talk heavy because you walk heavy. May your current work not be your best work. That’s yet to come. 

While in the hospital, I got up to use the restroom and couldn’t wipe myself. He asked me softly if I needed help, and I got super quiet before whispering yes. It was the most humbling moment of my life.

I have learned to forgive myself. To be kind to my star player. I have learned to appreciate self care more. Say less. Meditate more. Solitude…..more. I embrace falling forward, floating towards the new.

I grew up in the projects in Alabama. There would be police “check-points” at the entrance and exits. Everyone of age in the vehicle would need to produce identification. This type of policing doesn’t happen in the suburbs. Flash forward to being in Mississippi a few years ago and being met with that same check-point coming off of an exit. As I type, my eyes are filling with water with how ANGRY and afraid I was.

During the week I’d be in the office, and every Saturday, I’d be in the Weenie Wagon. The Weenie Wagon would go to certain car dealerships, and my job was to give anyone who visited as many free hot dogs and chips that they wanted.