To The Late Bloomers

To All of the late bloomers.

The ones who's lives took years to kick into first gear

The folks who knew greatness was possible, but couldn't get a break

Who dreamed of the possible

But were forced to celebrate the victories of everyone else

The victory speeches weren't yours, the tears of joy were not on your face, the final fist pump above your head belonged to someone else...

To the late bloomers.

To the ones who have agonized over whether you were good enough, smart enough, cool enough, capable, determined, and lucky enough...

Here's to you

The late bloomers.

You have waited for the spotlight to swing your way

It's your time, right now--

to step forward and SHINE

Because even late bloomers

Deserve to dance in the sun

Here's to the late bloomers.

Cuddle Monster

When I was young, I used to climb behind my mother and sit behind her back when she sat down on the sofa. I'm sure that for her it was very uncomfortable at times.  Then again, maybe she enjoyed feeling me close. I don't know. I doubt that she even remembers. But I remember it. I enjoyed the feeling of warmth and sometimes I would play with her poofy 80's hairstyle. It made me feel comfortable.

It's no surprise then that the desire to be close and to cuddle-up with someone has not left me. To this day, my co-workers Trenace and Michelle can tell you that I have no issues with sitting close. I do the same to my friends Nicole and LaJeana whenever I get the chance as well. But let's be real...though I love my sisters...my true desire would be to snuggle beside a brotha. I'm a woman for God's sake! There's nothing like the smell of cologne and warmth. But since I'm single (VERY...VERY...VERY SINGLE...((SIGH)) and continuing this epic push for abstinence (Jesus!!!!), and there are no husbands in sight...WHAT DO I DO?!

To be honest, I have no idea what even made me want to type this blog. I guess that I just felt like sharing. Maybe someone else out there needs to know that they aren't crazy and that desiring to cuddle and feel support and warmth isn't your solo struggle. For this dilemma, I have but one answer. Let me warn you that it's so cliche and trite that I don't even want to type it. Most of us know this answer already anyway, but I am going to show you what I am really trying to do more of:

((Insert a trickle or two of tears depending on mood))....God. It's [insert name]. I need your help. I feel like I am standing alone in this world. Though I know that it's not true, it's just the way that I feel. I feel alone and lonely. Again, I know it's not true but it's just the way that I feel. You already know what I am yearning for. I think I know why people use the term "cuddle monster". I feel like there is a monster trying to rip me apart, but all in the name of so called "love". Please help me to not fill this God sized space in my soul with the things of this world. They will only leave me more empty and alone anyway. Please take these feelings and use them for your glory somehow. Show me your love and grace right now because I am struggling. Though my feelings may be failing me, please strengthen me with the truth and reality of my circumstances. I am not alone, you have given me friends/family/coworkers to be around. Collect my tears please. Help me to not drown in this lonely place. In Jesus' name...amen.

That's all that I got folks.

I know it will help.