Happy 2019! No time like the present to acknowledge that we have victoriously walked into another year.
No. I am not lacing that statement with sarcasm. As I write this, with a lot of things on a “to do right now” list, I am grateful. I can acknowledge that my 2018 did not go the way I wanted to go. I can accept that all of my decisions were not the greatest. Yup, because in order to grow, one has to acknowledge “STUFF”. That does not mean that each of those decisions felt great. However, they happened. The past is static… it doesn’t change.
Then… AFTER acknowledging and praying about the things that rocked my life last year, I can celebrate all of the blessings. NEVER forget to put a spotlight of gratitude on your blessings. That is an area many fail at. We highlight the negatives and forget to “develop” the positives. I was blessed to start working at a new campus (cue gas savings), One class made top 10 in the district for growth in reading level )*insert happy dance*, I met amazing people, I was honored as one of the first WOMEN OF W.E.A.R.T.H. awardees, I preached three Sunday sermons, I spoke at Black Girl Mixtape Houston AND a young girl’s conference, I facilitated the Noir Bella Project 2018, I mentored and was mentored, I traveled to Trinidad and Tobago for the first time, and I created a lot of art. There is probably more, but as we speak… one of my teacher responsibilities is pressing on me to watch the clock.
I also went back to blonde and got a fade. I didn’t have to ask permission, it was my choice. I LOVE IT. Sometimes, we second guess what we want because of what others will think. Once I made up in my mind and heart, talked to the Lord AKA prayed, it was settled. I told my barber we were taking it off. I called my colorist and said I was going back to blonde. We actually went through a couple of shades of blonde to get here. This is home. As an artist, I feel better when I acknowledge my quirks. I love being able to express them.
I am also about 30 pounds lighter. I made a decision in July 2018 to pick up the discipline to change. A friend of mine agreed to coach me through her method of keto and I started. I didn’t announce the decision… I didn’t know if it would work. I also think I talk too much. THERE, I said it. I’ve learned to listen more. To observe more. To let results show up before my voice did. I’ve morphed from extrovert to ambivert. I rather enjoy that. I enjoy my voice, but not at the expense of hearing others out. This growth thing has something to it, ya know?
I still have my art business… Annlettered -> http://www.annlettered.com
I also charted a graduate chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha last June. Our chapter, Alpha Alpha Eta Omega, is very special to me. The sisters are warm and supportive, and serving along side them is a treat!
“I am blessed. All of my needs are met. I am receiving my hearts desires in JESUS’ name, and it’s happening RIGHT NOW!” Growing up, Reverend (Dr.) Linden taught us this proclamation. We said it every week before offering. As an adult, it comes back to me. It’s timely. Speak it over your 2019. Write it down. Carry it in your heart. Let it bubble up when doubt comes to steal your joy. CANCEL ALL JOY KILLERS in 2019. Hold fast to the gratitude spotlight in your life. Excel. Acknowledge. Grow.
Forever grateful that somewhere in the six years that I ‘ve been blogging, you’ve joined the party. IF someone shared this with you.. you can subscribe and get a notification when I post. I promise not to fill your inbox. My goal is to post 12-24 times this year. See? Not a whole lot.
With ALL Sincerity –IVY OUT
Andonnia's Truth 