Yesterday morning, I wondered what stories would be shared about me. Well, it didn’t take long for me to find out. A few hours after I shared yesterday’s post, “What Will My Story Be?”, the stories began, and the sharing didn’t end until after midnight.
As soon as I arrived at the family reunion venue, one of my uncles—who’s basically my twin (born a little over a week apart)—greeted me with, “Shaun, you remember when you used to…” Then, last night at my sister’s house, my sisters and cousin shared more stories with my daughter, oldest nephew, and oldest niece. When I tell you they soaked up those stories like sponges.🤭
All I can say is, I was Shaun.😂
Me and my sisters. Dorothy girls!
So, here’s what I gathered from their stories and what I know about myself:
I was never a quiet child. (I’m much calmer now, depending on who you ask.🤭)
I spoke my mind… I mean, voiced my opinions. (Still do, but more tactful now… depending on the situation😊—you might get Shaun or LaShaundrea or a version of both.🤷🏽♀️😂)
I was strong–willed. (Yeah… nothing’s changed.😂)
Just know my descendants will have many interesting stories to share about me.😅
Y’all, all while they were talking, I kept saying, “That was me then. I’m not that person anymore. Believe me, I’ve changed.” And they just laughed even harder.😂
Everyone is heading home today. Can’t wait until we meet up again. I love my family.💗
I hope your weekend has been great so far. Wishing you a beautiful Sunday and blessed week.♥️
Ironically, that was the question I asked myself on the morning of July 19, 2023. I just love my journal entries. Always so timely.
Today is Day 2 of our family reunion for the descendants of my grandmother’s great-grandparents—Charlie and Rosie Little. The last one was in 2013. So it’s been a while since we last got together physically, but many of us have kept in touch through Facebook.
Picture of my mom at the last reunion.
Last night, five representatives of Rosie and Charlie’s eight children shared family stories. It was my first time hearing many of the stories—stories that put so many things in perspective. I knew my great-grandmother (my grandmother’s mother), but I never knew her story or upbringing, and last night, my cousin Maria shared her story. Now I have a better understanding of my grandmother and even my mother. I needed this. I needed this weekend with family.
My grandmother’s grandmother, Sarah Little Lofton.My great-grandmother, Bertha Mae.My grandma, Sarah, and my mom.
Again, what will my story be?
What stories will my descendants share about me?
Time to get ready for Day 2. My baby sister is on her way here. Can’t wait to see her! All of momma’s girls will be together.🥰
By the way, I found out I’m going to be a great aunt! My oldest nephew and his wife are expecting their first child in December. Y’all, I couldn’t stop screaming! I can’t believe my baby is having a baby.🤩
That’s the question I asked myself last year. I wasn’t referring to the small things that weren’t hard to get over, but the real, deep pains, some of which I had been struggling with for years. This year, I can honestly say I acknowledged them, worked through them (took me a minute), and I no longer hurt. I forgave those who hurt me and forgave myself. Yeah… forgiving myself was a bit harder than forgiving others.
It really is true, you cannot heal what you don’t acknowledge. Grateful for growth. Grateful for God’s love and patience with me. Loving the healed version of me.♥️
When you are unable to fully express your needs, know that God already knows what you need. He knows, He cares, and He has you covered. Find rest in His loving arms and allow Him to provide for you.♥️
Singing Tasha Cobbs Leonard’s song “For Your Glory.” The song says—
“Lord if I, find favor in Your sight. Lord please, hear my heart’s cry. I’m desperately waiting to be where You are. I’ll cross the hottest desert. Travel near or far.”
“For Your glory, I will do anything. Just to see You; to behold You as my King.”
“I want to be where You are. Peace is where You are. Joy is where You are. Love is where You are. Gotta be where You are.”
Wrapped in God’s loving arms is where I want to stay. Amen
I pray your day is filled with unconditional love, joy, and peace. May God’s grace and favor surround you.♥️
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