As I sit and reflect on the Journey, I cannot help but to thank the struggle, the process, and the growth. Had it not been for the many test and trials, my return to self would not have been rendered.

This summer I had the opportunity to not only impact but be impacted. Spending three months in my hometown of Kansas City Missouri, proved to be an awakening rather than a burden. As the summer rapidly approached and I had yet to receive my desired internship, I began scrambling for any opportunity that presented itself. Then it hit me, return to your first love... That love being the spiritual and emotional embodiment of mentorship.

So there I was. Applying to an internship that I promised myself I would never take again, only, this time, it proved to be different. This time, I was on the other side. This time, I was an adult. Not only had my physical being matured, but my spiritual being has manifested itself into a place I had never experienced fully. It was happy, eager, and ready to pour out into the world all the things it had missed out on for years.

It was one thing to become older, but another to grow wiser. This summer was that inquisitive and wise process that pushed you past your physical self and proves to challenge your mental psyche on an intense level. This summer taught me a plethora of lessons. Lessons of vulnerability, stability, capacity, generosity, harmony, courage, and most of all, strength.

It showed me that in order to embrace another person you have to be comfortable enough to show truth. If that does not work or seem to be a possibility, hold off until you feel that you can actually do it.

Do not assemble situations that may destroy even an ounce of your character or wisdom. Be grateful and use the moments where silence and reason are allowed to speak. If you cannot offer positive insight you move on until becomes visible and available.

Be courteous. Be kind. Be mindful.

sankofa. ubuntu. siza.