As I meditated on the legacy and lessons learned from my ancestors, I hear them across the years crying with me. Only they are crying because I can sense that they would not want me to suffer the way I have allowed myself to. I think most especially of Mama, my maternal grandmother, and her love for Papa. There’s was an inspiring Love that endured long after Papa’s passing 12 years before Mama. I hear Mama remind me in my heart that Life does not come without tears. Yet, she also reminds me that Love is something one must create over and over again each day.

When I look back on this moment in my life, will I be proud of who I have been? Will I have any regrets? Are there any words I would want to take back? Will who I am now become the foundation for greater Love in the future? … These are the questions my ancestors ask me. This is the salve they offer as I move through my sorrow. …