As 2024 draws to a close, I'm writing this especially for my sisters who have been carrying the weight of the world on their shoulders. You know who you are....the ones who've been showing up for everyone else while trying to maintain your own peace and joy. It's time to pause, reflect, and intentionally create space for both endings and beginnings.
The Sacred Art of Letting Go
This year has asked so much of us. Whether you've been holding down your family, leading in your workplace, organizing in your community, or all of the above, you've shown up with grace, even when it wasn't easy. But as December unfolds, I invite you to consider: What are you ready to release? Which responsibilities no longer serve your highest good? What relationships or situations have run their course?
Endings aren't just about loss. They are portals to possibility. When we consciously choose to close certain chapters, we create space for new stories to emerge. This isn't about rushing to "new year, new me." It's about honoring your journey and choosing what you carry forward.
Rest as Resistance, Rest as Revolution
If you've never heard me say it before, please hear me now. Your rest is radical! In a world that often expects Black women to be endlessly strong, endlessly giving, and endlessly resilient, choosing to rest is an act of self-preservation and liberation. Rest isn't lazy. REST IS NECESSARY. Rest is not selfish. REST IS SACRED.
"Your cup is for you and your overflow is more than enough," Rev. Ebony D. Only
As you move through these final weeks of the year:
1. Give yourself permission to say no to additional commitments
2. Create quiet moments for reflection and rejuvenation
3. Allow yourself to sleep in, take naps, or simply sit in stillness
4. Release the guilt that often comes with putting yourself first
5. Reserve your cup for you and bless others with your overflow
Community Care is Self-Care
While personal rest is vital, we know our wellness is deeply connected to our community's wellbeing. As you focus on your own restoration, consider how you might:
1. Gather with sisters who fill your cup rather than drain it
2. Share resources and support with other Black women in your circle
3. Create collective spaces for joy, celebration, and authentic connection
4. Build sustainable support systems that allow everyone to thrive
Welcoming New Beginnings
As we look toward 2025, let's approach new beginnings with intention and wisdom. Before rushing to set resolutions, take time to envision how you want to feel in the new year. What rhythms of rest and activity will support your wellbeing? What boundaries need to be established or reinforced? What dreams have been waiting for the right moment to bloom?
Remember: You don't have to wait for January 1st to begin again. Every day offers opportunities for fresh starts and renewed commitment to your own flourishing.
A Gentle Reminder
Your worth isn't measured by your productivity. Your value isn't determined by how much you can give to others. You deserve rest simply because you exist. You deserve care simply because you are.
As this year closes, may you find moments of deep peace and genuine joy. May you remember that taking care of yourself is taking care of your community. May you trust that as certain doors close, new ones will open – and you have the wisdom to know which ones to walk through.
Here's to endings that free us, beginnings that excite us, and all the moments of rest and renewal in between. You are seen, you are valued, and you are worthy of every good thing coming your way.
With love and solidarity,
A Sister in the Journey
Add comment
Comments