"Remember that you’re a survivor. Remember that you are relentless. Remember..."
Trigger Warning: Violence and self-harm. This affirmation is written by a survivor. ❤️
Written by Dear Black Woman Shayna Johnson
Hello sunshine!
Who would have thought you’d be here today? Living in New York... Attending Columbia Business School with a full tuition scholarship? This is proof of the universe’s perfect order (and humor). You are embarking on another journey filled with so many unknowns. I need you to know — You have everything you need... including these gentle and loving reminders. Remember the work you did to get here. Remember that you’re a survivor. Remember that you are relentless. Remember you are a child of The Creator. Remember your purpose. Remember all of the self discoveries you’ve made over the last few months. You’ve accepted the love you thought you deserved. Your choices have proven there’s still work to be done — there always will be. But trust the process.
You’ve struggled with self love and identity your whole life... wondering what you could have done to push your father away... wondering why he didn’t love you the way he loved your siblings... wondering why men choose to abuse you, cheat on you, and take advantage of you no matter what you do... wondering why you aren’t enough. You’ve mutilated your body and spirit through your choices and by your own hands.
It ends now.
The world needs more sunshine. The world needs you. Start each day with gratitude, certainty, intention, and a bright smile. BELIEVE you are deserving and surround yourself with the people and experiences that bring out the absolute best in you.
Shine bright and be the person you needed and will need.
Take it easy on yourself.
Challenge yourself.
Take the rest you need.
Shut the world out when necessary.
Let the world in for your own learning and your leadership.
Say no.
Say yes.
Roll your eyes and be a sour patch kid when you need to be.
Ask for help.
Practice self care.
Drink water.
Eat with intention.
Practice yoga.
“Remember that you’re a survivor. Remember that you are relentless. Remember you are a child of The Creator. Remember your purpose.”
Meditate.
Dance.
Sing.
Create.
Heal.
Keep growing.
Seek balance.
Rise above the anger and negativity.
Shine light onto the darkest spaces.
Look for the metaphorical and sometimes literal giggles, skittles, sweet baby Jesus, gummy bears, puppies, coconut water, bacchanal, kids, waterfalls, sunflowers, glitter and sunshine in every situation.
Spread love.
Stand tall.
Look in the mirror....
No I mean really...
LOOK IN THE MIRROR...
Flip your hair, sway your hips
And tell yourself “I’m gorgeous”.
Be your authentic self.
Honor yourself.
Forgive yourself.
Love on yourself.
Know yourself.
Wear your crown.
Every single day.
I love seeing how far you’ve come and knowing with absolute certainty you’re exactly where you are meant to be. I love you. And I promise to keep showing you.