.png)
I am just coming up for some air on a crazy November /December run, I wish I could give folks a true glimpse into my world but some days it is just tewwww much. Ever felt that way? If so, you are NOT alone!
2023 was full of opportunities to do the right thing when the wrong thing seemed like the best option.
It has served me.
Both the ups and downs, but even the downs were an answer to a prayer in some way, shape or form.
Through each opportunity and encounter I was challenged to decide, a decision to respond well in adversity or to respond with the other side of the coin (Not good). I must be honest, I wanted to use lots of colorful words most days, but I would yield to the small voice that would whisper “what good would that do” … Yes, it would feel good in the moment, but afterwards would I be content with that being the response I was known for… and the answer was NO so I smiled, and I stayed in the game accepting that there are just some things beyond my own control. As I reflect on the past few weeks in anticipation of my much needed break I found myself attempting to reconcile my emotions around my responses in moments of potential ruin and I have to admit I am DAMN proud of myself for remaining a professional black woman in the workplace , for being a LADY in a room full of MEN who tested my being as if I had to prove my worth and ultimately for keeping the it pays to be nice to people mantra of Willie Lou Woodard close to my chest when I wanted to be MEAN. Like I really had to take a moment and salute myself for being steadfast in my character and actions in spite of……. And TODAY I want to FREE you to give yourself some credit for what and how you endured 2023 and how you responded to LIFE this year as well!!
You did the best you could with what you have!
You smiled and brought JOY to others when there was plenty of reasons to cry!
You stood and led people from point A to point B not knowing how you were going to make it to C yourself.
You stayed quiet when there was much to SAY.
You did the good work out of from your GOOD heart.
Dear Sis, Dear Bro be proud that you have earned the life badge of responding WELL! As we tackle the last 17 days of this year just know your OBEDIENCE will pay off. None of your responses were in VAIN!!
(That is for me and for YOU)
My car was hit in the church parking lot while parked on last Sunday ….
I ran out full of JOY to hop in my car to find a dent and broken lights … The lady left a note. I could have called her and let her have it for hitting my vehicle. But instead, I called her thanked her for leaving a note and collected her insurance information. 3 days later, my car is already in shop, I have a rental car and 4k worth of damage is being completed with no deductibles and no charges for me personally. I am a firm believer that had I responded negatively, my result may have been negative as well.
Sometimes you just must be the BIGGER person even when you did NOT start the fight.
I urge you to remain honorable the next 17 days, remain pleasant to others even when depression, anger, transition, grief and all the grinch driven symptoms start to raise their heads. I urge you to spread joy and a smile every place you do and be patient with the people you encounter so in return – they will be patient with you. This season will pass, how would you like it to end? Doing Good or Doing Bad? You choose!
Chin up, nice folks don’t finish last according to the book I read 😊
Have an amazing weekend and be encouraged through it all!
R. Rene’-
It ain’t always perfect but its perfect for me!