A: Affirmations
“On this path no effort is wasted, no gain ever reversed, for even a little bit of this practice will shelter you from sorrow.”~ The Bhagavad Gita
“Into the smoke I release all energy that does not serve me, any negativity that surrounds me and all fears that limit me. “ ~ Stepha LaFond
“I will use the time I have on this Earth and in this life to love, lead, and liberate.” ~ Layla Saad
B: Books
“My alma mater was books, a good library.... I could spend the rest of my life reading, just satisfying my curiosity.” ― Malcolm X.
All About Love
bell hooks (born Gloria Jean Watkins) was a beautiful Black soul gone too soon. She was an author, feminist, and social activist. Her gifts brought to life truth and brilliance in this single body of work. My personal bible on all things related to love in the most intimate and global way. She was my ancestor on earth. I will forever love you!
Set Boundaries, Find Peace
For 2022 I have committed to (re)establishing boundaries - in all spaces that I am gifted to occupy. Nedra Glover Tawwab’s book is an excellent guide. I have never considered the simplicity and strength of boundaries. This book also has an accompanying workbook. MUST HAVE! MUST READ!
Skill In Action
As I conclude my academic endeavors, I have placed this resource, gifted to me by a cohort member and yoga practitioner, in rotation to ensure that I challenge myself each day to know each action I commit to is an act of resistance, love, and, most importantly, self-care. Michelle’s book is an excellent resource for those who choose rest and restoration as catalysts for change.
C: Commitment
"Melanin makes you beautiful, Rest makes you whole" ~ Unknown
"Caring for myself is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare." ~ Audre Lorde
"I am no longer accepting the things I cannot change. I am changing the things I cannot accept." ~ Angela Davis
"To women of color, our backs tell stories no books have the spine to carry." ~ Rupi Kaur