What has been the best purchase I’ve ever made? My degrees. Now, before anyone reminds me about the student loans, yes, I’m aware. I’m still paying for them, and with interest! But despite that reality, I can honestly say they were worth every penny. Those degrees provided me with more than just an education. They … More Worth Every Penny
I often joke that I might become a lifelong academic just to postpone paying off my student loans. But in all seriousness, I consider myself a lifelong learner. Learning isn’t just enjoyable; it’s one of the best ways to stay humble. I don’t believe it’s possible to completely master a topic or subject. There is … More The Humility of Lifelong Learning
One lesson that has shifted my perspective is realizing that the people I love will sometimes disappoint me—and that’s okay. It’s also important to acknowledge that I will disappoint the people I love at times, and that’s okay too. For a long time, I believed that love meant people would always understand me, make the … More Giving Grace to Imperfect Love
Never stop caring, but be mindful of where you invest your heart. Do your best, stay true to your values, and let them guide you through life. Don’t keep placing yourself in spaces where you are not valued, and don’t let people tell you more than twice that you’re not wanted somewhere. Pursue what brings … More Protect Your Heart, Keep Your Values
I don’t have a clear answer for this! Also, are we limited to just one philosopher, or can I invite as many as I want? For me, it’s a tie between Friedrich Nietzsche and Immanuel Kant, and for very different reasons, of course. Honestly, I would love to have both of them at the same … More Philosophy, Chaos, and a Dinner Invitation
Oh, absolutely. Haiti is the first Black-led republic in the world. Every time I reflect on the sacrifices made by my ancestors, a sense of pride fills my chest so intensely that it almost hurts. I think about our long, relentless struggle for survival, how our fight for freedom has helped liberate nations still under … More Unwashable Colors
I complain about everything, and I’m proud of it. I refuse to suffer in silence for anyone’s comfort. If I’m unhappy, you’ll know. Women….especially Black women, are often expected to just endure: to be tough, to be strong, to be quiet, and to be unbothered. We’re told to smile through it, absorb it, and endure. … More Unapologetically Not Fine
Many moons ago, my parents decided to create a weekly Saturday check-in before we prayed and asked God to guide us through the coming week. What started as a simple idea evolved into one of the most grounding traditions in our family. The intention was clear: bonding, ensuring everyone felt supported, and creating a space … More Where Faith, Family, and Check-Ins Meet
As of now, I truly appreciate a good nap. I can’t believe I used to fight against them. Now, I will nap anywhere, as long as it feels safe. Whether on a couch, in a quiet room, or in the middle of the day with the sun shining, naps have become non-negotiable for me. When … More Booked, Busy, and Still Napping
The first thought that came to mind was: “I don’t have a dream job because I don’t dream of labor.” It’s a quote that floats around the internet; funny, yes, but also not entirely wrong. That said, I am doing work I once aspired to. Since leaving high school and entering college as a psychology major, my … More Doing the Work, Dreaming Bigger
SophieJ Life Experiences 