THRIVING Melanin Family Magazine November 2018 | Page 37

hesitant but when he said, “No matter what you are doing, I want to be
doing it with you.” My heart skipped a beat. My plans had only consisted of
popping firecrackers in Alvarado, Texas followed by watching the night roll
in while eating black eyed peas, cornbread, greens, yams and roast as I saw
New York bring in the New Year an hour early before it hit Texas central
standard time. I did not want to share that with him so I said, “I’m staying
in.” He asked if he could come see me and I said yes. Knowing my parents
had never met him. This was going to be an awkward night if I did not get
out before anyone noticed. So I rushed out as soon as I hit the rod iron
gate remote remote to let him in down the long driveway. He picked me up
and down Forgotten Lane to I35 we went. No destination in mind. Just out.
That Look That Night
During that night we talked and talked then he looked me in the eyes and
said, “You no longer have to be the strong one. I got you! I will be strong for
you.” I turned my face away from him to stare out the window. Hiding the
tears falling from my eyes as the weight of being an independent strong
black woman rolled down my face, under my chin and down my belly to
the car mat. I felt released from that persona I had kept up. I was tired of
being strong and he saw straight through me. That was the exact moment; I
knew I wanted to be with him for the rest of my life.
Life, Love and Laughter
Life, love, and laughter have been a constant. Hopes,
wishes, and desires have been fleeting yet ever-changing to
new beginnings. New beginnings bring about new changes
and challenges that manifest new horizons. This happens
when two lives collide. Everything was fun, and exciting.
There is never a dull moment when Timothy is around.
He stated, “Being in constant pursuit I have occasionally
overlooked what was right in front of me. To be successful
many are willing to risk it all, not me, only to realize you can
only be content with what you have, not what you desire.”
Life is a trip, literally, buckle up and enjoy the ride. Love is
the destination, the place you’re expending all of you to
reach. Laughter will fuel the ride, because everyday will not
be sunny, and y'all will not always be snacking on peaches
and cream.
NOVEMBER
2018 • THRIVE |35