"Nothing will work unless You Do"
Work does not always mean do more, sometimes it means do less
Nothing will work unless you do," Maya Angelou's words have always resonated deeply with me. Yet, last week, the weight of the world seemed to crush down harder than ever. The senseless murder of Sonya Massey, a Black woman killed by the very people sworn to protect her, left our community reeling. This tragedy, coupled with the discoveries in this post,
The Home I Built and the Town I Endure, forced a stark realization: I needed to prioritize my peace.
My husband and I faced a difficult decision about our home, a place that no longer felt safe. The realization that we couldn't trust law enforcement meant we had to get clear and united on what prioritizing our well-being looked like now and in the future. It was an unexpected burden to parse through, but amidst it all, I consciously chose to focus on myself.
For a week, I disconnected. No Substack, minimal social media, just me. I read, walked my dog, Kimi, celebrated friends, and indulged in simple pleasures: delicious food, quality time with loved ones, and even a bit of friendly competition. These moments were essential reminders of life's beauty and the importance of human connection.
Badiana enjoying a beautiful hike through gorgeous green marshlands
There was a fear that stepping away would diminish my online presence. But the truth is, my mental health and well-being were paramount. Returning to Substack, I found a renewed sense of purpose and was greeted with an unexpected gift: a new paid subscription from
. It was a powerful affirmation that my journey of self-care was not in vain.
Maya Angelou's quote rings truer than ever. Self-love and self-care are not luxuries, but necessities. For too long, I've prioritized the needs of others. No more. I am choosing me, and in doing so, I am stronger, more resilient, and better equipped to make a difference.
While the world continues to face challenges, I am grateful for the opportunity to breathe, to heal, and to emerge stronger.
What a beautiful environment! I’m on this same tip ~ the other day my son fell asleep nursing and I didn’t have my phone close by so I spent two hours unplugged just being there. It was glorious and refreshing. I love your perspective on that Maya quote because for many of us disconnecting outside so we can reconnect within is work🙌🏾💕
For the past 4 months, I have not posted on socials like I used to, and a month ago I turned off my notifications for IG and TikTok. After last week, my notifications for Substack are turned off too. I enjoyed my life more when I wasn't involved in world events yet the news still finds me, but now I know what my balance looks like. You did a great job finding balance for yourself, and this piece reminds me of an old affirmation I need to bring back for myself.
"I make money when I rest"