Words are Power. Words are one of the most powerful tools we have; in times of crisis, in times of sadness, time of hope, time of joy, and in times of unrest they serve as a Voice. The truth, the hurt, the struggle but also the strength of people. Words cause problems to be brought to light, and then they lead to change and reform. In America, our black sisters and bothers, all our neighbors of color, along with all those who have always stood with them, are using our voices against the injustice, the brutality and lack of opportunity that has reached its point of, enough is enough. Words are making these issues, these amazing people be seen and heard!!
I hesitated sharing this post, which I had intended to share last week but doing so wasn’t right, the time is for black voices to be amplified. But then I came across an Instagram post, that I can’t remember who it was but it was certainly a beautiful black woman…that in these times, we also need to be checking in with ourselves, we need to be taking a step back and analyzing how we’re feeling. Nourishing our mind, body and soul. Self care, rest and stillness is crucial for us all during these days. Because if we are not mentally strong, our mind focused on what matters — then we won’t have the strength and power to keep fighting, keep working towards the necessary change for others. Of course!! Goodness is she right! **and just as beautiful black and white butterflies are currently fluttering alongside me as I write this🧡**
And for me words, finding stillness in them, is one of the most powerful forms of self-care I partake in. So I decided to follow through and share this post full of Inspiring Words in hopes that however way you are feeling; angry, tired, sad, frustrated, passionate, ready to start a revolution or sit to listen and learn — I hope that these words bring some encouragement and comfort to you. Regardless of whatever point you are in your life, whatever you are dealing with personally, and especially to help lift your spirits when the world around us is tired and looking for change — I think each one of us can take something away from these inspiring words….
“Still I Rise” by Maya Angelou via Etsy
See I once had a reoccurring series, to which I haven’t contributed to since this post in 2017, and that was Inspiring Words. A simple post I would share quotes and words that were inspiring me at the moment. I’ve always had this thing with quotes and word snippets that in a way would touch my soul, inspire me, make me feel empowered and smile during a dark time. I have messages and words written on endless scraps of paper, tidbits scribbled on the days of the week in my daily planner, and many, many more saved on this Pinterest board.
And now with Instagram it’s so easy to be inspired by quotes and lovely images people post, or even the very caption they write. Words have a way of moving you, of bringing about personal emotions only you can relate to, because each one of us is impacted by the power of words so differently. Morgan Harper Nicols has been a favorite of mine for some time now, her words are beautiful, profound and captivate your soul in the most simplest of ways. She is a beacon of light and encouragement to our world, especially these days!! You must follow her along so that you can be touched by her words.
I owe all this, to a copy of “Where the Sidewalk Ends” I received when I was 8 years old, it clicked only this year that, that book was probably the reason I love quotes and words. Why I always randomly open up a book or magazine to any page, letting whatever serendipitous words spark a light within me. Sometimes they’re silly, but almost always I can take something meaningful away from whatever words I stumble upon. There are certain quotes that are my absolute favorites, everyone has those right. A certain quote, line in a book, or song lyric that becomes almost like a personal mantra. A part of you. A reason you are the way you are; a fuel, a propeller for your being and soul.
With so much that 2020 has handed to us in such a short time, there have been certain words and quotes since the end of 2019 that have lingered with me. And so for my own creative sense and enjoyment, I redesign and create images just for me. Well, in these last few months I’ve put together some lovely pieces of words that are both empowering and lift our spirits. So I figured what better time than now, to share these beautiful inspiring words with you as well!
The 1st image is actually my vision and intention for 2020, and this new chapter in my 30’s. It hangs over my desk, a constant reminder to “follow your bliss“, however that means to you.
Hope you enjoy these images and words, feel free to keep them for yourself and share them with whoever you think could use some love and encouragement. Click the link under each photo for the downloadable version. The first are a merely a few from black activists/writers I love right now, and you absolutely should follow and read more of their inspiring work….
download here | Nikki Banas || Walk the Earth
download here | Morgan Harper Nicole
download here | Nikki Banas || Walk the Earth
This poem by Leslie Dwight perfectly encapsulates exactly how I’ve felt about 2020 as the pandemic was raging and lockdowns became the norm early in March. This year the Universe has rattled us, and I believe it is for good reason. The way lives were being lead, the same cycles repeating and causing destruction…they all needed to be reevaluated and shattered! And now we must change and rebuild a more purposeful and just world. That is the hard, but crucial assignment 2020 has handed us.
download top “Follow your Bliss” here
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