Childhoodtake2!

Gently Awaken

Begin without force, and let's take one small step toward what feels alive again.

One small step, like realizing my hard work and grit at work is being recognized, and allowing myself to feel the recognition.

One small step, like looking at my daughter, on the cusp of turning 17, and starting her college tours and experiences. Seeing the experience through her excited and new eyes. God, glorious daughter, you are magic.

One small step, like looking at my son who still smooches me goodbye in the morning. Who still tells me he loves me. Who wants to have our breakfast on Sunday traditions. God, wonderful child, you are sunshine.

One small step, like how alive I feel when I move this body that works so hard for me.

One small step, like how alive I feel when I write to you, leave you this part of me, these memories of us.

One. Small. Step.

To gently awaken and feel alive again.

One. Small. Step.

Every Friday we unite for five minutes. Only five minutes, that's all we get, that's all we have. And then, right where we are, no edits or second thoughts, we publish those words. This week, we write on polite.

I was taught to be seen and not heard.
I was taught to smile and play along.
I was taught go along to get along.
I was taught that being polite is the most important thing.

And now, I am teaching you differently.
I am reminding you to lead with your heart and kindness, but no, hard no to being polite.

Politeness is how you get hurt.
Politeness is how you get lost.
Politeness is how you say yes to anything.

So no.
Do not be polite.
Be seen and heard.
Question, ask why, ask if there's a different way.

Do better than smile and get along.
Be louder, stand up for who you are.
Be less mousy than me, be proud of who you are and what you believe in.