(i.e., chicks kicking ass in the human category)

I thank the heavens for the illuminators in my life. The ones who have lit my runway during periods of darkness. I am indebted and make every effort to express my appreciation privately. Still, I would be remiss if I did not publicly spotlight the most crucial illuminator in my orbit. And that is without question my mama (aka nana, nana banana).

The world, I am understanding, is filled with takers and givers. Unquestionably my mama is a giver, in a BIG, GIANT sort of way. For as long as I can remember, she has always carved out space in her universe to help others. As a child, this made me very jealous; she seemed to be perpetually distracted by others and their needs. I did not appreciate her spirit and often wondered, “why is she always doing for other people?” It took time and maturity for me to recognize her purpose in life is to illuminate; her inner light is too bright not to share with the world.

The number of people that she has ‘adopted’ over the years is vast. Hence, my very eclectic family. Our family tree is enormous, crazy, and wonderful. Nana is the root of this massive tree; her loving heart serves as the trunk. The branches represent the people she has transformed and bear her fruit, a reminder of nana’s pure goodness. It is jaw-dropping to stop and ponder the positive impact she has made. It brings me joy to witness nana banana plant nuggets of kindness and compassion in her grandchildren too. Indeed, her tree of life will continue for decades.

Life has served her the whole gamut. She has enjoyed wealth and privilege but has also endured hardships. There was a period that life just served up piles and piles of shit, enough to build a mountain. Nonetheless, she persevered by remaining faithful to her gratitude meter.

Here is what makes my nana so remarkable, she gives freely and often. Sometimes this comes in monetary form, but mostly she dolls out big scoops of love, support, and kindness. She is a modern-day Mother Teresa, yeah, I said it, I accept the challenge, I grasp the comparison’s magnitude, but you know what, boom, I am staking the flag, owning it; nana is that special.

So, thank you, mama, for lighting the path forward. Thank you for teaching me that there is always room at the table for one more; no matter what, make room. And for constantly reminding me that we would not be here today if not for our yesterdays. And today is a really good day.

I will always need you,