There is Power in Camaraderie
The Galentine’s Day Brunch hosted by Ariel Smith (Bloom with Ari) and Leah Ali-Johnson (Flourish by Design) was one of joy and laughter. A small group of women came together for 2 hours to celebrate sisterhood and love. It dispelled the idea that the only way to experience intimacy and connection is through romance. We sat with one another over an amazing meal and had a great time.
Through about 10-15 activities we learned how to practice loving ourselves with the love language that affects us the most. One activity included us changing negative affirmations into positive ones. This practice allowed us to redirect our negative thoughts and be a little more gentle with ourselves. Towards the end we were gifted with a few sweets, coupons, and a journal. Of course we ended the event with a group selfie and more love.
This small space provided us the opportunity to express our daily struggles and wins! Through conversation we realized that we all related to giving selflessly and tirelessly. Whether it was towards our families, jobs, or passions. At times women work so hard to save the world but we constantly forget to pour into ourselves. That’s what the Galentine’s Day Brunch was all about. Taking the time to be intimate with yourself.
It was nice to get a chance to focus on practicing self love. There was even a massage chair so not only did we release tension mentally but we did it physically as well.
This event made me think about the importance of gathering in spaces like these with women of color. I believe activities that include groups of positive women create a space of support. Every “yessss sis” or “you got this” was encouragement that I always forget that I need. Meeting new women and discovering the similarities between us, validates my feelings and lets me know that I am not in this thing alone. Not to mention that there is no humor like black girl humor! Everybody needs to sit in a circle with funny black women at least once a month.
As a mom, a business woman, an activist and a full time employee, it’s hard to make time for events like these. So yes to more group activities with women that are working to make their dreams come true! Yes to circles of support! And yes to taking some time to yourself to further remind you that you are loved and surrounded by other women that want what’s best for you, no matter how much support you feel like you don’t get at times. Yes to self love and reminders of how crucial it is to be intentional about it.
