GIRL Power :)

I must say, the past six months have probably been the most challenging, personally and professionally, in recent memory. I’ve been working four jobs while taking a class, persistently under a deadline, chronically overextended, and depriving myself of essential, sanity-preserving necessities like sleep and downtime. There’s a reason why I haven’t been blogging much, writing much, or even responding to email — I’m just so far beyond capacity that a 10 second email response requires ten seconds I just don’t have…

Recently, I made the acquaintance of a Kindred Spirit, via another kindred spirit, who has really helped to anchor me in what is IMPORTANT. She is a godsend, an angel, someone who, rather than asking me to do more more more, faster faster faster, reminds me daily to slow down, be kind to myself, and take time out for me. Someone who supports and uplifts, rather than demands and drains. Someone who always leaves me with a smile after every interaction, and since our fated crossing of paths, has helped me magnetize exactly what I need for ME, from an African-American women’s group, to an actor for my book trailer. She is magic, I tell ya.

Throughout my life, I’ve been blessed with many wonderful (girl)friends… Like attracts like, and strong, fierce, competent, and compassionate women have always made up my inner circle. However, we’re all such superwomen that we frequently go too long without connecting, because we’re all moving pretty dang fast, keeping those balls in the air, trying to be all to everyone. There is nothing about being uber-competent that is easy. We just make it look easy.

Quite serendipitously (as it usually is when magic is involved this meeting with my new friend was followed by a quick trip down to Southern California, home to many, many dear friends that I don’t get to see nearly enough. Leaving the husband at home, I immersed myself fully in reconnecting with my loved ones – sharing meals, laughter, wine, and some amazing blueberry beer, lol. With each visit, I found I was rediscovering myself… The pace I’ve been keeping is not conducive to self-reflection, and I realized I’ve been spinning around in the stratosphere with one foot barely touching the ground for far too long. But these good people, this collection of Cappy Kindreds and Slug homies, bring me right back down to earth, reminding me that my essence is not caught up in my “success”. They love me and think I’m amazing whether I’ve sold 3000 books or three. They’re proud of me for the path I’ve chosen, irregardless of what has (or hasn’t) been accomplished along the way. They’re my TRUE Fans, who’ve been riding with me for over a decade, and as the years go by, I understand how truly irreplaceable these people are.

So to all those lovely ladies in my corner, old and new (and you know who you are!), I tip my hat to you. I could not do ANY of this without you. Thank you for your strong shoulders on which to lean, your loyalty, and your light. Thank you for looking out for my best interests, even when I fail to do the same. Thank you for your faith and truly unconditional love. Thank you for providing balance as I struggle to stay sane in a male-dominated world. I love you more than words. In sisterhood and solidarity we stand…