You know, life is full of surprises, I’ve finally decided to embrace one of them: I’m getting a massage. Yes,! For someone who generally doesn’t like being touched, this feels like a huge leap into uncharted territory. But lately, my body has been sending out distress signals in a language I can barely comprehend, it’s time to listen.

if you been reading these little inserts about my life, you know that I drive a lot, and not just in a gentle, leisurely manner. I tend to wrestle with big cars like they’re stubborn mules, trust me, my body definitely feels the effects of my rough driving. The tension has been building up like a Netflix series that just won’t resolve, so I’ve decided it’s time to book a massage at a local Thai place. My very first time, and I’m both excited and a little nervous… who will be touching this body nkosi yam? I hope they will be gentle because I am fragile.

I’m also a planner. I like to strategise every little detail before I take the plunge into something new. This meticulous approach means before I accept change, I have to analyse it first , however growth can’t happen without a little discomfort, right? Remember when I first started driving? I made a ton of rookie mistakes. I even took midnight drives around town, praying I wouldn’t end up in a horror movie scenario. But through that learning curve, I discovered how to be prepared for whatever life throws at me, I was practicing how to drive when everyone else is sleeping, thats how much I love being prepared, this is both my strength and weakness…yes, I am self-aware.

I think we all have to remind ourselves to be open to new experiences. Growth comes from stepping outside our comfort zones, even if it’s just for a little while. You don’t have to jump into the deep end headfirst; sometimes it’s enough to dip your toes in and test the waters. Life isn’t meant to be lived in the same old patterns, why not explore new opportunities and meet new people? Who knows? You might just find yourself dancing to a different tune. And trust me, it won’t hurt.

I’ve spent too long trying to secure my footing, to create a sense of stability. My past has shaped me, and while I’ve shared the struggles, it’s time for a shift. I want to revel in the adventures life has to offer, to take a step back and let things unfold naturally. I’ve sacrificed and fought hard to get where I am, and now I want to experience those delightful feelings I didn’t think existed. It’s time to be a little softer.

I have read a book by Ms Alice Walker called “The Colour Purple” and She wrote

“All my life I had to fight. I had to fight my daddy. I had to fight my brothers. I had to fight my cousins and my uncles. A girl child ain’t safe in a family of men. But I never thought I’d have to fight in my own house. She let out her breath. I loves Harpo, she say. God knows I do. But I’ll kill him dead before I let him beat me.”

I read this as a teenager, and it didn’t truly resonate until I became a woman, understanding just how much a woman has to fight. I don’t have to fight my dad; I’m grateful for a father who listens to understand. I can’t relate to fighting with my brother; he’s a sweet boy growing into a kind man. But I have to fight men in the boardroom, reckless drivers on the road, and the fear of women disappearing and being found dead while I drive to cities I don’t even know how to pronounce sometimes. I battle the worry of being taken advantage of because of my kindness. I fight for my voice to be heard in my industry and navigate church politics tied to my position. I struggle against others’ views on how I should act as a woman of God while trying to express myself as just a woman… now thats a lot of fighting, And I am just one person.

So here’s my prayer for you: may you finally get to exhale. I hope you discover the joys of simply being sane. May your life be filled with cherished moments where nothing requires you to battle or compromise your heart. Surround yourself with people who appreciate you and allow you the space to grow. You deserve to enjoy life, to visit new places, and to connect with others who can love you just as you are.

Life can be tough, but instead of throwing lemons your way, I hope it showers you with flowers. You deserve a break—a moment to celebrate, to be held, and to feel cherished. You’ve been the friend, the supporter, the shoulder to cry on. Now it’s time for you to take a step back and breathe.

So here’s to new beginnings, to the unknown, and to the simple joy of a good massage. Cheers to feeling all those delightful sensations and embracing every beautiful moment that comes our way!