This year has been a whirlwind. Luckily, it's nearly over. As some of us celebrate the holidays and await the new year, here's a reminder to love each other, hold each other tightly and never forget to say "thanks" to the people who love us relentlessly despite our downfalls.

New Years often functions as the opportunity to redeem oneself, to start anew and work towards becoming a better self. This is usually easier said than done, but it is always worth a try. So, wherever you are and whomever you hold dearly to you, remember that each day is a new chance to start over. You don't have to wait until New Years to be a better person, recognize your mistakes and fix them, apologize for your wrong doings, tell that special someone how much you love them, and above all else; take care of yourself.

Self-care doesn't mean that you are selfish. And in recognizing that your happiness is of value; that your mental, spiritual and physical health are integral to navigating the world around you (especially in moments of tragedy) remember that you matter. Find something that motivates you, makes you feel warm inside, pushes you, makes you laugh until you cry and hold onto that. Take that with you into the new year and wrap yourself up in its embrace.

I leave you with two books that have gotten me through 2015 and will continue to carry me through future endeavors: "Milk and Honey" by Rupi Kaur and "Between the World and Me" by Ta-Nehisi Coates. They have taught me to be proud of my skin, my womanliness, my tight-knit curls, the laughter of my people, and life's unknown possibilities tightly sealed in a box full of love, pain, and joy I've yet to know. I hope you may enjoy them as much as I have.

See you in 2016!

Happy Holidays