I don't have office space; I have a creative space. Though many may believe that an office and creative space are one-in-the-same, from my perspective, I would disagree. Maybe it's the word "office" that makes my stomach turn because I instantly think of mundane work, forced labor, and an oppressive environment that snuffs out any form of creativity. However, when I think of a creative space, I sense freedom in mind, body, and spirit, which are three elements that I need to be my best self.  ​

Due to the pandemic, I spend only three days a week in my creative space, working the other two days virtually from home. However, it is vital that my creative space feels like "home," exuding the warmth, love, and acceptance that I have grown accustomed to experiencing in my day-to-day life. Each piece that I include in my creative space brings positive energy, a sense of belief, and purpose. Whether it is a poster of Ali or the Native Tongues Crew on my wall or Grogu, who is one of my many Star Wars collectibles, each piece brings me peace. I am a massive fan of being around something growing, hence the potted plants. Inspiration comes in many forms, and I am thankful that my creative space echoes the eclectic nature of my heart and spirit. ​

I hate being in pictures. I don't consider myself to be particularly photogenic. I am pretty awkward in front of the camera because of my sheer unwillingness to force a smile. Say Cheese...no thank you.  


Lately, I have challenged myself recently to take more selfies. Even saying selfies makes my skin crawl because I often associate that term with the type of narcissism needed to be a social media star. Still, I realize that being in front of the camera can be beautiful, as some moments should be captured. So here are a couple of shots that I have taken over the past couple of months as I randomly stroll through life.  

​Say cheese...

Thank you, Cynthia Loving, known to most of the world as singer & songwriter Lil Mo.  Listening to this interview made me feel like I was sitting on the couch talking to my sister about love, life, and learned lessons.  Her energy was everything throughout this interview. 

Mental health can be lost, but it can't be bought.  Peace of mind can be stolen, but like pride, it can't be purchased.  When it comes to mental health or peace of mind, you either have IT or don't.  Naomi Osaka is fighting for IT.  

Yesterday, Naomi, the #2 ranked women's tennis player in the world and one of the game's most recognizable faces, withdrew from the French Open, citing her mental health.  Last week, she told French Open officials that she wouldn't be doing interviews during the tournament as a way to preserve her mental health.  Tournament officials took umbrage with Naomi's stance and threatened her with a $15,000 fine.  Naomi didn't blink.  French Open officials and representatives from the other three tennis major tournaments told Naomi that she might face expulsion from matches if this type of behavior continued.  Naomi didn't blink.  

At that moment, Naomi went from a multiracial tennis darling to an angry Black woman in the eyes of many.  Naomi didn't blink.  As I previously stated, when it comes to mental health or peace of mind, you either have IT or don't.  Naomi Osaka is fighting for IT.  

Yesterday, Naomi withdrew from the French Open, citing her recent battles with depression.  Tournament officials blinked. Just like that, Naomi was gone from their eyesight.  She left the tournament with her pride intact, unwilling to sacrifice her mental health for a major title.  Money can't buy happiness.  Now, we also understand that money can't buy you Naomi Osaka. 

Game. Set. Match.  

I am a black Jedi.  Seriously.  The Force is is literally with me.  I can't tell you how many times I have walked into stores and have seen lightsabers on sale.  Some may attribute this phenomenon to consumerism.  I attribute it to The Force.  

I am one with The Force, and The Force is in me. 

I went thrifting, and I found these two objects pulling me to them.  Once again, blame it on The Force. I purchased both for less than six dollars, and they both are a part of a small growing collection of figurines, lightsabers, and an X-Wing or two.  I bought them because they make me smile and reflect on knowing that I am one with The Force, and The Force is in me. 

May The Force be with you.  
 

Pharrell comes through and just drop jewels upon jewels.  Black ownership is a value worth teaching.  Take a listen to this masterclass discussing strength, ambition, and the power to pursue the gifts of your heart.  

He has spoken.  

When J. Cole speaks, I listen and relate.  I can't wait for this album.  I love hearing about the creative process of making an album because the stories of conception help me understand the lyrics recorded.  J. Cole is an artist, painting songs that move the world into a place of reflection, direction, and artistic progression.  

8 years ago, the PBS television show "Broad & High" featured the Homework Help Center that I led and its impact in the surrounding community.  Many of the kids shown in this clip are in high school and college, living lives that both they and I are proud of.  Though many years have passed, my passion to invest in community remains the same. 

"A thirst for information is a thirst for empowerment...which is also a thirst for FREEDOM..."-Lauryn Hill.  

She dropped so many jewels in this brief exercise of the mind.  Listening to Lauryn Hill speak is like listening to your favorite aunt who has traveled around the world absorbing wisdom.  Take a listen to her heart as she voices lessons of yesterday for today's consumption and tomorrow's investment.