They told us modesty was a virtue. Especially us women. Be soft-spoken. Be agreeable. Don’t take up too much space. Don’t say too many good things about yourself, because that’s “arrogant.” And for a long time, I believed them. But I’m done. As Maya Angelou said, “Modesty is a learned affectation.” And when I heard […]
A Mother’s Love: The Complicated Miracle
They say a mother’s love is the greatest love of all.And yes—it is.It is the first language we ever learn, often without words. It is the hand that holds our tiny body, the soft eyes that watch us sleep, the fierce prayer whispered when we stumble, and the steady presence that echoes even when she’s […]
The Roller Coaster of Life: From Carimi’s Music to Mourning My Aunt
They say life is like a roller coaster—and this past month, I’ve felt every twist, every climb, and every heartbreaking drop. Just a few weeks ago, I was at the Carimi reunion concert, surrounded by my people, my culture, my childhood in melody form. That night was pure joy. The arena pulsed with pride and […]
