Where Do We Belong?

By Valerie Maldonado

🧩

We are all shaped in different ways
Sculpted over time, day by day
By family and friends
Places and events
Until it seems that we fit in
But what if we don’t?
That’s ok!
Freelance on your own
Forge a new way
There’s nothing wrong
If you don’t belong
On paths created
By those long gone
Stand alone
Stand united
But stand where you feel
Genuinely invited

Autumn is on the Horizon

Though summer has a few calendar weeks to go and the thermometer is still rising, the season of autumn is clearly on the horizon. Leaves have begun to gloriously transition and fall from still lush trees. Retailers are serving spiced drinks and stocking the shelves with holiday decor. Back to school, football, and the sun setting earlier are all signs we are leaving summer behind.

How does this transition feel to you?

Many people love summer and bemoan the shortness of the season while others rejoice heartily when fall arrives. I personally do not enjoy the shorter days but autumn is my second favorite season after Spring.

Autumn reminds me of new beginnings more so than even New Year’s Day. Autumn is crisp, a kaleidoscope of colors, and like summer feels all too brief. I would forgo debating which season we are “technically” in and simply enjoy your surroundings.

Take walks! Lots of walks! Bake, cook, gather leaves, travel, read, declutter, reorganize, replenish your wardrobe, find a new hobby, connect with family and friends, binge a new (or old) show or movie. Go to the movies! Dance the night away! Capture moments in photos or draw! Do the things! Live as fully in autumn as you would in summer albeit adjusting for weather and less daylight.

Autumn is on the horizon. Don’t let it catch you snoozing.🍂🤎🧡♥️🍂 Winter is gleefully waiting around the corner.

Much love always,

Valerie

And his hands were shaking…

 And his hands were shaking…

By Valerie Maldonado

🩶

He fought for a place in the world

Searching for purpose he wandered

Looking for love he stumbled

Breaking barriers he conquered

Walking tall until he stooped

Both from work and expectations

Placed upon his soul from womb

He tried to live up to the hype

But the hype was a fabrication

So he learned and he taught

And his hands were shaking

Still he read and he sung

He wept against the wall

Gaining ground, growing stronger

He shined as his true self emerged

Like a bright gem beneath the sun

He gained a place in the world

Not the world at large in plain sight

His world, his eyes, his universe

Unleashing the worth held inside

His value is priceless and precious

Strength independent of muscle

Love unrelated to romance

Importance independent of hustle

Purpose found at the core

He swam against the tide

Finding solace at the shore

🙏🏻

For all men…you are seen and loved