SophieJ Life Experiences

I’m going through a tough time, everyone! I have so many things I want to write about, but I lack the motivation to do so. Many of you have reached out over the past few weeks asking if everything is okay, and I truly appreciate it. To sum it up in one word: seasonal depression and a weather funk. It’s no joke! Although I intended to prepare for my winter season this year, life had other plans. So here I am, doing my best to survive the cold season. Am I doing a good job? You know what? With everything happening, I will say yes! I am out here trying to make it, not crashing out, and hoping that Jesus will fix it soon! Deep down, I can’t help but think: what a shame it is not to be a brown bear.

Nature has a wonderful way of planning life. Brown bears isolate themselves during the winter to recharge, which is perfect because who wants to be outside in the freezing weather? Most of all prefer to sip soup, drink hot cocoa, and enjoy our favorite shows or curl up with a great book under a warm blanket. Yes to all of that! I’m catching up on Season 4 of Abbott Elementary; let me tell you, it’s fantastic! O’Shon just entered the scene, and Ava, girl, I see it too! We should all be cozying up. Instead, some people have to shovel snow—thankfully not me, thanks to my amazing father! But the rest of the unfortunate souls in cold climates have to shovel every couple of weeks! God forbid you’re in Canada; it’s storm season there! Just imagine shoveling and cleaning a car that isn’t yours—I would probably spiral! It’s not even funny to think about.

By the way, how was your Valentine’s Day? Did you enjoy pricey dinners, flowers, and expensive parking valets? Or are you one of those who says, “I don’t celebrate,” claiming it’s a way to avoid capitalism or because you don’t find it in religious texts? The same can be said for Mother’s Day and Father’s Day! Has that ever struck you?

It’s not even about the money and expensive gifts when you think about it. You can absolutely love every day without making a big deal out of it, but do you actually show love and appreciation on the days that don’t revolve around holidays?

It could be quite simple: like-minded people should stick together. If you truly don’t want to celebrate—not just because you’re broke or cheap—please don’t come after me. I’m just trying to deal with my own challenges. You should spend time with others who also don’t care to celebrate and leave the rest of us alone, right?

My only issue is with those high-vibrational individuals who feel the need to police our thoughts and behaviors just because we make different choices. Meanwhile, they can make irrational choices about the things that interest them! My motto is to take a page from Kenya Moore: “Don’t come for me unless I sent for you.” If you don’t know what I’m talking about, it’s okay—no judgment.

As for how I’m coping with the current state of the world, I’m ashamed to admit that I’ve been hibernating in many ways, focusing primarily on survival. The lack of posts on my part reflects this! I don’t know if you can relate, but I feel incredibly overwhelmed most days, friends. I’ve stopped reading the news—just a single headline gives me an instant headache. Right now, I’m trying to take care of myself before I re-engage with the world, whatever that may involve.

As you may have heard, Black people in the U.S. are taking a much-needed break. This doesn’t mean we’re inactive; it simply signifies that we are stepping back for a while and allowing others to take the lead. Black bodies have consistently been on the front lines, often without the recognition they deserve for their sacrifices. It’s time to put the “saving cape” away for a bit.

If you are a non-Black person reading this, please reflect on this message rather than taking offense. If you feel called out, that’s a good thing—it’s an opportunity for self-education and action.

P.S. I am considering starting a podcast. What language should I use?