As a black woman that never fit in to any space, my journey is more clear to me now. I was always the only black girl in the class in Latin Miami. My first crush was a Latin boy much to the dismay of my parents. I was soon transferred to a school closer to home to be around my own community which failed miserably. Because of my involvement in classical music, I did not fit in with the other children and was more comfortable elsewhere. There was not any reflection of myself in the world that involved me. My existence drowned in a world that simply saw me as a black girl in a white world.
The fact that church did not strike a chord with me caused a division with my mother which simply grew over time. As a student at FIU, I fell hard for a guy that had no boundaries with ties to Costa Rica. This dismal relationship caused a huge rift with my parents and ruined my life. By the time graduation rolled around, my relationship was on the floor and my family was nowhere to be found. As a teacher in MDCPS, it was my friends that stood next to me.
In the current day, I am committed to creating spaces where safety and community can be found. My personal life finds me reaching out to my alum association for involvement opportunities. Flo Mo makes me feel as if I am a part of a family. I feel welcomed as if I am a part of something larger than life. There are historical ties, and the joy that only an HBCU can bring.
Over the last five years, I have been intentional about seeking out black women as my health care providers. As of this moment, I can tell you that I have never felt more cared for and loved in my life. They go above and beyond to take care of me. Why? They see me in a very real light because it is a mirror. This is the type of care that insurance and copays alone can not cover. It is their highest calling and my wellness benefit. They simply empower me with their love which is a true blessing.
It boils down to a resonating connection.