The Heart & Mind Knows...

I've known for a long time how good my intuition was, but it has been even more prevalent as I've grown older. Some things are more obvious and some require more time, so I need to pay close attention. Then, there are times when I will dream about something and it's either symbolic of what's to come or it's a prediction/confirmation of what's currently happening. So, it's like the saying: "You just know things before you know." 

Truth, it's one of those words that can either be beneficial towards a situation or detrimental to one's emotions. Regardless, the truth is necessary. There have been many instances where deep down I already knew the truth, but hearing it spoken out-loud makes it that more solid. Regarding matters of heart, that's when shit gets real... And I've learned that you must find a way to accept what is, whether or not you receive the answers or closure you deserve. You must find that peace within yourself, so that no matter what happens, you can forgive for your sake and move forward. 

I've been very fortunate to have people in my life that were honest and had the heart to tell me the truth and were up-front. I'm grateful for the lessons, experiences and memories that I will hold close to my heart. As I've mentioned in my last post, this year may not have gone how I expected it to, but it has truly brought me a new-found perspective that I can and will continue to get through what life throws at me. There's still SO much to discover and I look forward to what the end of this year has, as well as, what 2021 has instore for me. 

I'm so grateful to God to have hope, strength and resilience to keep going even when it gets tough. This year has been a constant reminder to fully release, trust and allow Him to work. "Let go and LET GOD!" 🙏🏽

I hope everyone stays safe and has a fabulous week!

With love,

Sharon ♥️

     Here are a few encouraging thoughts that I'd like to share from kind souls that speak to my heart:

Speak

Hey everyone! 

I hope everyone’s safe and taking care of one another! Please don’t forget to take care of yourself too! I understand that with all that has been going on, we’re hurt and overwhelmed. So, continue to pace yourself and know when to unplug and take mental breaks. Then, stand up again, when you’re ready. 🙏🏽

I understand that many of us (such as myself, coming from a conservative, African home) grew up in passive cultures and told to never “talk back” or “use your voice” even when you’re right. In the past, I researched and learned that my ancestors from Madagascar, were on the slave ships that were taken to Georgia and parts of South America such as Brazil and Peru. We were specifically targeted due to our timid, docile and obedient nature, and so were considered best suited as “House slaves.” 😔 Once discovering that, I understood that this is still an ancestral and generational curse that we need to heal and work through. I love and appreciate my people for their big, compassionate hearts, even in the face of adversity. So, I’m doing my best to empathize with those that may have trouble being vocal, while also processing their emotions and dealing with many internal struggles. I’m also proud of those of us that are healing and reprogramming ourselves, as well as, encouraging the generation before us to stand and use their voice just as they’ve witnessed ours.

I’m not asking you to meet me where I am now on this journey (trust me, I’ve been there and I’m constantly evolving) but, rather work through meeting yourself where you are. We ALL have the power to make a difference, so make sure to nurture and know your role! I’ve taken the time to list below ways YOU TOO can do your part, so feel free to share! ⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️

Remember Me This Way

Hey everyone!

I hope you're all safe and staying in as much as possible. I just wanted to express the heaviness in my heart from the loss of a sweet and dear childhood friend of mine, earlier this morning. He passed away due to complications from the virus, as well as, other serious health issues. I cannot imagine the immense panic, worry and pain of losing a child, parent or other family member. And you can never expect that the last conversation with that person would be the very last... My heart truly goes out to his parents during this extremely difficult time. 😔

He always dreamed of true love and growing old with someone... It truly breaks my heart that he will never get to experience that in this lifetime. He was always so self-aware, willing to learn and understand all of the complexities of life and had such a big heart. That guy knew how to write... I would find myself sometimes, having to take my time and respond in sections due to the extensive content (they were like essays, guys!) But, I loved how he would always remind me to take as much time as I needed to respond and even if I didn't get to, he was grateful to have some sort of outlet to vent anything weighing on his heart. I'm really going to miss his child-like innocence, his patience, for always wanting the best for me and those he cared for.

My girls and I were reminding one another that from now on, once someone comes to mind, reach out! Life is way too short! We need each other more than ever, so please if you can find some time during your day to contact someone, please do! Whether it's a text, call, email, or an old-fashioned letter by mail, do it! You never know how much that ONE kind gesture can encourage someone on this journey. Be more loving. Be more kind. Be more patient and embrace your present. 💕

I'm quite emotional today and had a good cry in the shower, but I know that I'll get through this and that I can hold onto the goodness in this life. I cherish people like him in life and I hope he knew how loved he was. We need more gentle souls in this world. I love you, Kris! Rest well, my friend. 💔

With Love,
Sharon 💙


P.S. this song immediately came to mind today, so feel free to give it a listen when you can. I started singing it to myself and couldn't help, but break down into tears. My heart truly aches today, but I trust that one day I will see him on that great morning. 🙏🏼

RIP Kris 🌻

Remember Me This Way - Jordan Hill (Casper 1995)

"Social Distancing" An Introvert's Bliss (or Hell)

Hey everyone!

I hope everyone is taking care of themselves and spending time with their loved ones (if possible) during this crazy time. I'm sure extroverts are kinda losing their minds out there, but as a self-proclaimed introvert, try to pause, slow down and look on the bright side of things. 👀

Think of all the things you can accomplish with this time of seclusion... When was the last time you took time for yourself? Have you tried a new recipe? Why not bake that dessert that you've been dying to try out thanks to endless baking tutorials on Youtube? 🍰 Grab that book that's been sitting on your desk for months. 📚 If you're feeling anxious or worried about x-y-and-z (hello, it's me!) perhaps text, call or Facetime someone important to you and vent or maybe grab one of your many journals and write to your heart's content! And if you must cry, let those tears fall and decorate your pages. 📝 Try to find a healthy outlet to release anything that's beyond your control or to simply just breathe. I'm sure that we could all use a rejuvenating nap. Sometimes, the best way to recharge is to not do, but be still. 😌

I'll admit that I'm scared at times... Scared of unexpected changes, scared that I may not say or do the right things, scared to open up my heart and be vulnerable, scared that I won't have enough time, scared that my hopes and dreams feel so far-fetched or nearly impossible and scared that maybe I'm just so focused on the future, that I end up running from my present self... 😔

I read something earlier today and noticed that it fit exactly not only how I’ve been feeling, but how my thought process has shifted as I’ve grown older: “Breaking out of old thought patterns and finding refreshing ways to express yourself are also things to aspire to... Of course, that means risking being wrong or saying something that not everyone will agree with. GIVE YOURSELF PERMISSION TO TAKE THAT RISK, even if it means making a strong impression that you’re worried will come across as too bold. Have courage to speak your mind and see things in a new light. GROWTH REQUIRES CHANGE.” Can I say that I felt attacked yet heard? 👀

Trust me, despite my calm demeanor, I'm a clam of worry. I worry about others, their tone of voice, their change in behavior, reading too deep into shit and ya girl manages to find a way to worry before there are even things TO worry about, so how do ya'll think I'm doing now?! I'm an acrobat at jumping to conclusions. 😧😩

But, all is well... I woke up this morning. I'm ingesting way too much tea and carbohydrates. I've managed to wash my hair with one hand (burned my left hand earlier this week, so please be careful in the kitchen guys!) and type up a fresh post. Baby steps... 🙌

Who knew that turning 28 would not only change how my mind and body operates, but also how much I've been self-reflecting?! Ya girl is tired. She's emotionally drained... 🍵

Anywho, feel free to leave me comments on your thoughts and how you guys are handling things during this hectic situation. Take care my darlings! Stay hydrated, get some well-deserved rest and take your Vitamin C!


With Love,
Sharon 🌙

Cheers to New Beginnings

Guys, it just hit me that the year is basically over... 👀

A few weeks ago, I even admitted to one of my girls that I cannot believe that it's "Christmas-time" and that it feels as if Summer just came and went... 👋 Anywhooo, so much has happened and I'm sure there's more to come in this new year of 2020. (It's kinda crazy to think about...) I'm actually really excited for a new decade, it almost feels like being given the opportunity to write and witness a new chapter. ✍

I recently got back into the habit of writing more and noticed that it's done a tremendous job at alleviating whatever has been weighing on my heart. I may not cry very often (I always joke about needing to schedule one in...) but, being able to find healthy ways to calm my mind and help me decompress works just as well. Art or other forms of creativity has always been my biggest vice, especially since childhood. You could find me in the corner drawing with jumbo crayons, shamelessly singing Celine Dion or the Spice Girls, dressing up in costumes/outdated clothes from yesteryear or daydreaming of being a Disney princess. 👸

I've realized that life really does have a way of surprising you and you can either accept that or change course. I may not always enjoy change, but I've learned that I'm able to adapt to what's occurring around me and thus, shifting my perspective to see the good and find the lesson. I'm far more capable than I realize which means that I'm stronger and resilient than I appear. I'm the type of person that will view a detour as a blessing in disguise. I'm a big believer in timing and all that's meant to be, will be. And no, I'm not saying to deny your emotions or avoid them. I'm all for embracing your emotions and taking time for yourself to relax, heal and refocus.  #selfcare 🍵

I want to open myself up to the possibilities! No more hiding behind my work, my hidden talents or that feeling of lack, unworthy of good things, as well as, hiding and shielding myself from "real love" out of fear of: failure, the unknown or another heartbreak. My heart has been through far more than I could have possibly imagined and it's insane to think that it can endure so much more... I always remind myself that I am not what has happened to me and that I, too, deserve a chance at happiness. I don't know what the future holds, but I do know that my time isn't up yet, so I'm ready for what magic is in store. ✨

May you all have an abundant and magical holiday! I pray that your new year will be prosperous and rewarding for your well-being.


With love,
Sharon 💕

My current BFF. ✍

       

Hello, it's me. 💖