King's Daughter's Kitchen

I am proud of learning not to use box words that keep me from standing. I have the right to fall to pieces over everything that has happened, but I continue to stand. People have asked me when I will give myself permission to fall apart. I don’t need to fall down. I’ve done the work to remain whole.

I won’t fall because I choose to cry it out with Jesus. I choose to do the work it takes to be mentally, physically, and emotionally strong.

I’ve watched members of my family fall apart, sit down, and give up on life. In crisis, helping hands are amazing and necessary. Choosing longlasting comfort in ugly, turning a helping hand or handout into a lifestyle, not helping one’s self to move on, is sad and dishonors one’s personhood.

I’m proud that I am doing the work it takes to face life with strength and joy. I have found my power in walking, writing, praying, talking it out, maintaining good friendships, exploring new places, cooking, rereading my Bible, and decluttering my house and life.

I am learning proudly not to use box words like will, can’t, must, and have to. They force a decision. Instead, I use words like might, could, and may. These words leave me free choice and independence. They allow me to stand for myself without someone, or my old, sad mind to tell me when, where, or how to live my happy life.