a homies ONLY kinda mood…
A Galentine’s Dinner Party
Thank You: A Love Letter to My Galentines
The past year has been nothing short of a rollercoaster ride. In very distinct ways, the pandemic has affected each of us- whether positively, negatively, or a bit of both. You all know the past year brought two huge life shifts for me. After sharing a life with someone for the past 5 years, and it so abruptly coming to an end; and losing the best man I’ve ever known (my father, of course!), the past year has unequivocally altered the trajectory of my life. Without a doubt, parts of me are forever changed!
As they say, there’s a first time for everything. The shade is… “they” forgot to give you the “How-To” instructions for when two of those life-changing firsts happen within 3 months of each other- oh yeah and in the midst of a good ole global pandemic. Ever since these two ground- shaking things happened, I’ve been experiencing, but more so questioning, what grief looks like for me. I wasn’t sure what to expect from this process. Would I be consistently sad? Would I be uncharacteristically emotional? Would I be unable to regain my footing? In the midst of search uncertainty, one thing has stood firm: my collective and individual friendships with each of you!
I believe in giving people their roses while they can still smell them. So I ask if you will take this rose. This rose of my appreciation. This rose of my gratitude. This rose of my love. This rose of my admiration... for you.
It dawned on me that while loss is a lot like the crest and trough of waves headed to sea, friendship is the safety of the beach. I can’t begin to express my sincerest appreciation for every text, call, gift, card, or visit. It has been so comforting, validating, and reassuring to know that I’m not forging this path alone- that I’ve been favored by the universe and led to revolve (and evolve) within your orbits. You are my constellations, guiding me through life’s sky. And what beautiful constellations you are- as varied and complex as the zodiac. It has been an honor to bask in your beauty, absorb your genius, awe at your strength, learn from your adversity, resemble your resilience, and radiate your bright light. If no one’s told you you’re a star today- let me be the one to burst it out!
I’m so thankful to have your unwavering love and support in the good times and the bad. A difficult year was made bearable because you were my anchors in the wind.
