Taking Stock

 Hey everyone! How have you been? It’s been a while, right? I hope you’re doing okay and enjoying whatever season you’re in right now.

In the spirit of accountability, the last time I posted here was in August. I should have shown up more often, but life was life-ing. I moved states, went back to school, and basically started my life all over again. Was it hard? Yes. Did I want to do hard things? No. Would I do it again? I really don’t know! Change is never easy, even when you’re prepared. But I’m learning, again, to take each day as it comes. In the midst of it all, I’ve been busy turning Chenu and Ladi’s story into a novel and working on another short story, among other random writerly adventures.

Today, I’m here to ask a few questions, encourage you, and cheer you on - so let’s get into it.

Does this ever happen to you? You’re just minding your business, going through your day, and suddenly you discover something about yourself that shocks you. Last week, Tony and I were talking, and I casually said, “I wish someone would just call me and send me some money.” And then it hit me: apart from my family, NO ONE has ever called to say, “Hey, I was thinking about you,” or “I felt led to give you this.” Ha! How did I get here? I want to think I am generous, so why does no one give me? The realization honestly stung.

I don’t know if it will affect my generosity going forward, but at my core, I don’t give because of what I expect in return. I’m blessed to even be able to give at all. Still, the thought made me pause. Did I do the independent-woman thing too much? Do I not look like someone who could use a blessing?

Thinking about it made me dig deep, all the way back to Uni. Oke used to give me the cutest gifts—hi Croke! We always exchanged gifts, but hers were always better. Thank you, Croks; I genuinely appreciate the gift of you.

So yes, I did a full self-audit, and let me tell you: self-audits are essential. They help you see clearly, stay grounded, and stand firm in the truth.

So I started a thorough analysis of my life, and made some surprising discoveries that I'll keep to myself. One thing I recommend? Self-audit is an essential aspect of growth that should never be taken for granted. It not only helps you see in hindsight, but it also helps you stay grounded. Nothing enables you to stand better than knowing the truth.

And while I wasn’t doing everything I planned this past season, some things still happened quietly. I didn’t chase those opportunities; they came to me. But I recognized them because I had already written out my goals for the year, so when the opportunity appeared, I knew it aligned. This is why I always recommend goal-setting: write it down, put it where you can see it, work toward it, and when the time is right, it will unfold.

For balance, some other things I worked hard for didn’t work out. You win some, and sometimes… You don’t get some. But I’m not worried. I did my best. Next time, I’ll try again.

Now, back to you. What have the last few months been like? Did you hit your goals? I hope you did - and if not, don’t beat yourself up. You gave it your best, and we will keep trying till we tick those boxes. I’m rooting for you, as always.

As a bonus, I’m toying with the idea of reviving my dormant IG for food photography. I love the idea, but I’m also too lazy to commit. If you’re into photography, please tell me what apps I need to get great shots. Thank you! 

Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” Matthew 19:26 (NIV)