Greetings from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania! Things have been busy. I am still a working mom of three, working full time who is trying to make a difference. I do a lot of things and try to be present so that I can learn from them. I share them on this blog so that we can learn together.
Below are some thoughts, hacks, and/or lessons that I have learned from navigating my world.
The lesson I have learned recently is that the universe has reminders of the goodness that exists, we just have to look for them.
Life can test us in the most intense ways — and recently I have experienced that intensity. It’s been a season filled with emotional strain, logistical juggling, and moments where I question the laws of physics and fairness. But in the middle of this chaos, I have experienced some extraordinary, blessings that embodied grace-- when I least expected it.
Two people have motivated me to actively look for these blessings and to expect them--Tyyawdi Hands and Serena Williams.
- Advice from Tyyawdi Hands--"Closed mouths don't get fed. But, I keep my mouth open for snacks and treats!"
- Advice from Serena Williams--"Look for something wonderful to happen everyday."
Life can be hard. And, miracles also happen every day and they can happen to me.
A Stranger’s Hug Before My Hearing
On the day of my court hearing, I was emotionally raw and bracing myself for a difficult day. As I stood outside, a woman I’d never met approached me. She didn’t know my story, but she saw something in my eyes. She gave me a hug and spoke kind, encouraging words that felt like a lifeline. That moment reminded me that kindness still exists — and sometimes, it comes from the most unexpected places.
A Survey Payment That Covered Childcare
Later that week, I received a small payment from a survey I had almost forgotten I’d completed. It wasn’t much, but it was *just enough* to pay for a babysitter for the day. That meant I could go to work without scrambling for help. It felt like divine timing — a reminder that provision often comes in quiet, subtle ways.
Compliments That Spoke to My Soul
Strangers have told me, “You look beautiful,” “You have such a calming energy,” “I love your smile.” They didn’t know the battles I was fighting, but their words reminded me that I don’t look like what I’ve been through. And that’s a victory in itself.
A $20 Win That Sparked Joy
The day of my daughter's birthday party we were at the grocery story and my younger son came over with a scratch-off lottery ticket. I asked him where he got it and he said it was free from the machine. He then went back to the machine and returned with three more. I have no idea whether the machine malfunctioned or someone had paid for them and had forgotten about them. All I know is we left with the tickets. I declared them a "birthday gift" for me--after all, I did all of the work on that blessed day! A few days later, I scratched them absentmindedly and won $20. It wasn’t a fortune, but it was enough to treat the kids to a surprise lunch. That small win felt like a wink from the universe that everything would be alright. Like Mr. Miyagi said in the "Karate Kid", "Buddha provides."
Family Texts Remind Me I’m Loved
My family group text is chaotic and constant — sometimes overwhelming. Sometimes I question how some of them remain employed with the volume of text messages... That said, in the middle of the memes, jokes, and random updates are messages that remind me I’m deeply loved by people who have my back no matter what. And, seeing that everyone is connected reminds me that I am a part of a supportive ecosystem. On the other side of my family, my cousin Corwin checks in on me, often. He makes sure that my mind is balanced and that I remember that I am descended from a long line of strong, determined and smart people who have made things happen.
The Lesson
All these moments — small, fleeting, and seemingly random — have reminded me of something profound: the universe will provide what you need if you are open to it. So, do yourself a favor and be open to it!
Comments