Rose, Thorn, Bud - A Year in Review
3 min
Yesterday, during our guided meditation, the teacher asked us to reflect on the past year by sharing a Rose, Thorn, and Bud. This mindful exercise helped us recognize highlights, challenges, and budding ideas, fostering a collective celebration of learnings and successes amid difficulties.
A "rose" represented a positive highlight or success, a "thorn" denoted a challenge or an area requiring additional support, and a "bud" symbolized a new idea or something eagerly anticipated. Without a doubt, the release of the MyKume Journal was my rose this year. Bringing this vision to life has filled me with immense pride, providing a source of inner fulfillment. There's nothing like betting on yourself and having your community show up for you.
The enthusiasm and ongoing support for the Journal, whether through social media posts, purchases, or inclusion in local markets and gatherings, have been truly touching. Recently, during a fellowship and luncheon organized by my colleagues at NYU Stern and the African American Black Diaspora Affinity group, I introduced the Journal and had a beautiful conversation about holding space for our stories. The group generously purchased 50 journals, affirming the power and meaning of genuine support within a community. Since the Black Friday launch, we have sold 180 journals, and I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has purchased. Our goal is to sell out this batch of 300 journals by December 31st, so if you haven't grabbed a Journal yet, there's no better time than now to do so and kickstart the new year with peace, ease, and clarity. After all, a little introspection never hurt anybody.
On the flip side, a thorn from this year stemmed from shifts in my relationships, including partnerships, parent-child dynamics, and friendships. Relationships can shift and change, sometimes dramatically and other times subtly. It's been a practice of giving space for people to become who they are and understanding that relationships can drift apart and come back together. In this process, I'm learning not to shrink myself for love, family, or friendship. At times, the attachment to these bonds may hinder us from living in alignment with our true selves. If a relationship hinders your authenticity, it requires assessment. Stay grounded and unwavering in who you are, allowing bonds to evolve or dissolve. I recommend reading "The Untethered Soul," listed on our Kume Syllabus, for further insights.
On a brighter note, my bud involves utilizing storytelling for compassionate, curious inquiry steeped in love. As I expand this platform through the podcast, newsletter, and now the MyKume Journal, my understanding of the capacity of stories to open, heal, and connect us deepens. Stories are not just for entertainment. Stories are also for sense-making, and when we tell our stories, we practice engaging with the various experiences of life and the multitude of human life.
Storytelling can serve as a tool for healing. And with healing, comes growth, joy, and peace–aspects essential for our well-being.
I hope the reflection inspires you to reflect and be mindful of a Rose, Thorn, and Bud you have experienced this year.
I wish you a joyful holiday season and a happy new year. May 2024 be filled with joy, beauty, learning, friendship, and all the goodness you deserve.
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