“That moment when you realize you’ve been hiding, and you’re ready to seek…that point in your life when you admit you’ve been dimming your light, and you’re ready to shine…”

~alexshay

Apparently, a side effect of grief (in addition to the pandemic) is assessing your life and taking inventory on your time and talents. When I published volume 1 nearly four years ago, losing family resulted in reevaluating life. Butterflies appeal to me, not only because of their diversity and beauty, but also due to their growth process and resilience. Change is inevitable, and our task is to learn how to adjust. While some elements of my professional career involve speaking and being in the spotlight, my personal attributes entail being more of a listener, observer, and wallflower than an outspoken social butterfly. I imagine that to be the case for most writers. At a party or social gathering, I prefer to people-watch than to work the room. A true introvert, I rejuvenate myself in solitude and reflection after being in crowds. Much like millennials, I’d rather text than talk.

I learned the importance of marketing and networking as an entrepreneur. I am still learning about the power of my voice as a Black woman in America. So, where does that leave me as a 45 year-old poet? I stand at the intersection of creativity and critical thinking. As an INFJ, I make a conscious effort to both self-reflect and connect with others. When I find myself tipping on the tightrope of critique/perfectionism, I dance with grace and laugh at myself. When I love so hard that it hurts, I apply balms of prayer, meditation, and yes, tears. When I get lost in my thoughts and drown in my feelings, I find my way by paddling with stride and remembering to breathe. When I feel overwhelmed or confused, I fill myself with quality family time or solo walks in the park — depends on my mood. When the world sounds like nonsense, I change the tune to hear motivating music or listen to the symphony of nature. When I’m tired after working all day, I still get excited about writing poetry and song lyrics at midnight. When I put myself in a professional box, I brew a cup of courage, let it steep in vulnerability, and post a pic of my alopecia scalp tattoo!

So, yeah — I’m going need you to appreciate my flair (natural skills)/flare (flash of light), ‘cuz it’s long overdue!

I hope my words resonate and empower you to walk in your purpose and truth!

**Click here to order poetry book(s)**

~alexshay