So recently I started this blog, not really knowing where I was going with it. Everyone would ask, what are you going to blog about? What is your theme? I had no idea. So one night I sat down and just started writing my introduction. It seems that each time I go to post I just kind of wing it!
I keep thinking about the questions though. What am I writing about? I don’t want to blab about nonsense. I want to make a difference with my words. I want to use my voice. I want to create things. I want to empower people. To spread love. That is my mission. There is not enough, nor can there ever be enough, love in this world.
Tonight I am going to see India Arie with my son. If you don’t know who she is or know her music, check out her website http://www.soulbird.com. She may not be your style of music or your favorite, but she is one of mine. I have been thinking a lot lately about why I really admire her as a performer. I have been thinking about her music and why I love it so much. It’s because she creates a feeling! When I listen to her music I feel good! I feel the release of endorphins, whether it makes me smile, cry, laugh or just sing loudly (and badly). If I’m having a bad day I just close my eyes and listen to Purify Me and it calms me. If I’m feeling not so great about my appearance I can listen to I am Not My Hair and realize that my real beauty comes from my soul. If my son is being a typical teenager the lyrics in Beautiful Surprise remind of what a blessing he is to my life. When I need to escape this craziness, I close my eyes and go to Beautiful. As India transports me to a peaceful place in my mind. Days I am discouraged, she reminds me of the Strength Courage and Wisdom we all posess inside.
Thinking about her music and the mood it creates, has made me realize that is what I would like to do with my writing. When I listen to her music I feel love and peace.
I want to use my words to build people up. To remind you that just because you are having a bad day, doesn’t mean it is the end of the world. There is always tomorrow. To remind people that just because you have a moment of weakness does not mean that you are not a strong person. Having a bad hair day doesn’t define the beauty that is within you. Don’t look in the mirror and let it define your value!
Words can be so powerful. Remember the old saying, “sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me?” That is definitely not true. People get stuck in verbally abusive relationships all the time and the only thing bringing them down is the power of words. Words can be used to tear down or build up. So remember to use your words carefully when, writing, commenting or speaking. I choose to use my words to build.
So what is my theme or mission with this blog? It’s using my words to create love and peace. To remind not only myself, but all of you reading this blog, that you are amazing! You are beautiful, strong, people with a purpose. As India says in her song dedicated to Stevie Wonder, you are Wonderful!
*please note the italicized words are song titles of just a few of India’s songs.
