Blessed, Black, and Highly Favored.

I am truly blessed in every corner of my life. I have a husband who loves me, a son who inspires me, a family that grounds me, and friends who keep me lifted. I am surrounded by people who pour into me, and because of them, I am rich beyond measure.

This past year I ran a campaign on pure grit and faith, and I was elected as a School Board Director in one of the largest urban school districts in our city. It still amazes me that what I once dreamed of is now my reality. But the titles and accomplishments don’t define me what defines me is the love I’ve been trusted with. I am rich because people let me into their children’s lives, because parents in my community share their struggles and hopes with me, because neighbors and everyday folks know I’ll stand beside them.

What keeps me grounded are the everyday people. The cashier at Walmart when I work my part-time job. The young parents figuring it out one step at a time. The babies I hold in schools and parks across my district. The high school students I mentor who remind me daily that the future is alive and waiting to be nurtured.

I was raised by no-nonsense, no-ass-kissing women who taught me that there’s no payment, introduction, or influence big enough to pull me away from my people. I am rich because of trust, because of community, because of love. And I don’t want anything more out of life than to keep showing up for everyday people, every damn day.