The release and grow experience

06/03/2025

Today, I lost a good friend—and the pain cuts deep.
He wasn’t someone I grew up with, or someone I knew from childhood. In fact, I didn’t really know him at all in the traditional sense.
We met in the most unexpected way—through that strange space we call the Internet.

Almost four years ago, I entered a BIGO Live room, and there he was—this gentle soul sitting on the panel, playing music like he was pouring pieces of himself into every note. I joined in, we started talking, and before I knew it, two hours had flown by. By the end of that night, we made a promise: to meet up in that same BIGO space every day. And we did.

Eventually, we exchanged numbers. That’s when I found out that my new friend, LaMarcus, had a heart condition that required him to wear an LVAD. But that didn’t stop him from showing up as the most caring, thoughtful, and lovable giant I’ve ever known—with a big heart, even if it was broken in ways many couldn’t see.

For over two years, he texted me daily. He called just to check in, to make sure I was okay. He reminded me—every single day—that he loved me. He affectionately called me his “big sis,” and he meant it.

In June 2024, we finally met in person. I’ll never forget the hug we shared that day or the beautiful photo we took to mark that moment. I’m beyond grateful we got to meet—because today, June 2, 2025, I found out that my friend, my big lovable, huggable, gentle giant with the broken heart… is gone.

Rest well, LaMarcus. You were deeply loved, and you will be deeply missed. 💔

03/14/2025

I am my greatest source of encouragement because I don’t just exist in my mind—I live in my body. Even when I don’t consciously realize it, I am pushing through challenges that feel impossible, proving to myself that I am stronger than my doubts. My body moves forward even when my mind hesitates. When it comes to encouragement, I am my own biggest champion. It is my voice that carries me through, my voice that reminds me I can do anything.

03/13/2025

My children and my husband have shown me, time and time again, the true meaning of unconditional love. Even at my worst, they continue to love me through it. Even when I fall short, they help me navigate my struggles with patience and understanding. They have never given up on me, even when I parented and loved through my own trauma, unintentionally passing some of that pain onto them. Through them, I have learned what forgiveness truly looks like—starting with forgiving myself and doing the work to become a better person for those around me. They have extended a level of grace that is unmatched, showing me that love, when real, holds space for growth, healing, and redemption.

03/12/2025

The most generous thing someone has done for me was choosing to bring me into this world, despite their inability to be the parent I needed. While they may not have been able to provide the support I longed for, I will not overlook the significance of that choice. Because of it, I am here—mothering, loving, and building a life as a wife, a friend, and a person who continues to grow.

03/11/2025

My children, my husband, and the family I have built—including the many incredible people I’ve met along this journey we call life—are my tribe. They remind me that to err is human and that I am deeply supported.

03/10/2025

I have been fortunate to have several mentors who have shown me that compassion truly exists in the world. They have demonstrated that love can be unconditional and acceptance can be given freely. Rather than scolding, they have chosen to teach, guiding me with patience and understanding. Their influence has allowed me to open up, embrace vulnerability, and recognize that I am worthy of compassion—not just from others, but from myself as well.

03/09/2025

03/08/2025

One of the accomplishments I am most grateful for is my continued growth into a better version of myself each day, despite all that I have endured in life.

03/07/2025

"I often find myself taking life for granted, assuming we have more time than we really do. I tend to give people the benefit of the doubt, believing they might change, but I’ve realized that may not always be the case. Instead of dwelling on 'what ifs' and 'why nots,' I should focus on enjoying the present moment! Aggravation no longer deserves my energy; my priority is to pursue happiness."