One of the hardest things I’ve had to do recently is keep smiling. Life hasn’t been easy, and some days have felt heavy. But even in the middle of it all, I’ve found reasons to smile. I’m not ignoring the reality around me, I call it ‘ostriching,’ but I promise that’s not what I’m doing. I just know that my problems don’t get to steal my joy. And truthfully, holding on to that smile has taken work. Serious work. From the start, I had to surrender my worries to God. I had to name my stressors and create distance from them. I leaned on my accountability partners- a wise, steady friend (Mrs. I), and an incredible community (The SABI CORE). I built routines that helped me stay grounded. I rediscovered myself, rebuilt my mindset, and slowly let go of fear. I can’t share the full story yet, because I know this isn’t the end. But I’ve learned some deep truths along the way, and I think you should know them: Nothing lasts forever. Storms come, but they pass. Embrace each season for what it ...
“Ladi, odi ne?” “Have I offended you in any way?” Chenu’s voice was low and soft, but his eyes held concern. “Your eyes are guarded, and your hackles are up. I could almost swear you growled at me this morning.” He stepped into the kitchen, his tone a mixture of confusion and worry. “My love, did I do something wrong?” Chenu wrapped his arms around his wife, pulling her to his chest. She froze. “No,” Ladi mumbled, trying to shrug him off, but he held her firmly, his grip tender yet insistent. “Then why have you been building walls around yourself this past week?” Chenu’s voice softened as he spoke, his fingers gently stroking her back. “At first, I thought you were tired, but I watched you smile at everyone else, and when I approached you... the smile vanished. My love, tell me what I’ve done. I promised myself I’d never be the cause of your sadness. Please, tell me.” His voice cracked with sincerity. “Tell me, and I’ll apologize at once and try to make it right. Anything you w...