On August 23, 2014, my family hosted a going away party for me! We invited friends and family from across the country to come celebrate with me! My mother and grandmother helped to prepare for this huge celebration with their stupendous cooking, and their skillful planning, cleaning, and organizing. I had ALL of my favorite foods from Soul food to Indian food to my aunt’s Banana Pudding.
For me, the most special and memorable moment of my going away party was the time everyone spent sharing words of wisdom, support, and love; and the many well wishes I received from my friends and family. My heart soared when I heard my cousin, who has been my best friend since we were in the cradle, and who is more like my sister, say to me, “you find ways to inspire me every time you step out of the house”!
From tears that flowed from a place of love and knowing how much we will miss being just a short drive away from each other; to moments of levity, when everyone kept telling me "not to fall in love with an African Prince”; I felt a connection to everyone around me at that moment, that is indescribable. I smiled from ear to ear, and my heart was warmed by the sincerity and beauty of it all. Later, our DJ played the music that I love, and some of my friends taught me a few African dances. (SN: I have no rhythm at all, and I am still trying to figure out those dances, but the beats were HOT!)
We danced, and ate, and laughed until the wee hours of morning. I couldn't have had a better send-off!
Johannesburg