photo by Refracted Moments

I’ve been having a very transformative year. By transformative, I mean really, really, difficult. Part of it is about growing up and becoming a woman (whatever she looks like). And another part of it is walking by faith in God, in the spirit He’s placed within me and in my self. A whole ‘nother part of of it is making smarter decisions.

Through the fear, the tears, the laughter and the smiles, there’s one constant theme I have and that’s love. I am loved, by my sister who left chocolate covered espresso beans in my car this morning. I am loved by my Dad who’s trying to hunt down the poor souls who broke into my car yesterday. I am loved by my Mommy who’s always checking in with me emotionally. I am loved by my brother who sprays that smelly Axe deodorant thingy everywhere. I am loved by my other sister who constantly helps out with Ankara & Lace production. I am loved by my *other* sister who’s also checking in on me from like a million miles away.

I’m loved by @Mdotwrites who keeps me in her world and keeps asking me if I’m eating and sleeping and sends me articles that inform my scheming. I’m loved by my boss, Patty, who stayed with me through the whole fiasco yesterday and even went looking through trashcans for my things. I’m loved by coworkers like Kim and Vanessa and Damon who are constantly affirming me and the work we do here in Los Angeles.

And I love them. My family. Most of everything I do is for them. And I suspect it’s the same way with them.

This is God’s work. This transformative love. This love that struggles with you. This love that is transparent and real and tangible.

I hope you know you are loved. And, I hope you know I love you.

Yes, you.

~aod