For National Poetry Month, try to read a new or favorite poet each week, or if you are busy, listen to The Slowdown podcast by Tracy K. Smith. Each day, she delivers one poem in less than five mounts, and gives a brief commentary before she reads the poet’s work. It is like a mini-meditation. You can find it here on in Apple podcasts.
Grown: You are grown when you know better, know what’s best for you, and you do it, without explanation, apology or need for affirmation and approval.
Honey, I’m Grown
I found myself saying this more and more over the last few years, especially when I have to make it clear that I know what I want and have no intention of apologizing for putting my needs and values first. “I’m Grown” is an exclamation, a declaration, and a period at the end of a sentence. It means that I’ve been through enough in life to have something to say and share. At this age I know better, certainly most of the time.
I like that my friends use this expression too—when they are embarking on a new journey, when they have had enough, or when they have made a decision they don’t want to explain…unless they feel like it.
Although I have considered myself to be grown for years, I began writing about this in December of 2017, using images to share bits of wisdom and humor, advice, and quotes, with the intent of expressing my thoughts on being grown, getting older, and to encourage and entertain readers of all ages.
In late December, I will share my latest goal—to optimize my health so that I am fit for the journey ahead.
~ Ramona
I heard this on the Jesus and Jollof podcast, hosted by Luvvie Ajayi and Yvonne Orji, two talented Nigerian women—they are on TV, writing books, speaking, and sharing their wit and wisdom. They say that Jesus and Jollof are the two things they cannot live without; I think the quote emphasizes the role of faith in making progress towards your goals.
Honey, I'm Grown 