I have friends who know how to reach out. They are the wise souls who text their sister, source Facebook for uplifting book suggestions and get out of the house when they’re in the trenches. They say “yes” when invited out, exchanging tattered sweats for jeans, knowing it’ll do them good. Unfortunately, these profoundly healthy […]
When Anger Points to Racial Reconciliation
by on November 26, 2018 10 Comments
By Allison Harrell While scrolling social media on September 7, I find out that a man named Botham Jean was murdered in his apartment by an uniformed off-duty police officer the night before. My mind swirls. So many headlines grab my attention. I read through a few articles, but nothing makes sense. There are clearly […]
Hosting for the Anxious Introvert
by on November 1, 2018 24 Comments
As I walked to work today, I passed a store specializing in all things kitchen related. Through the giant picture window I saw a gorgeous table set for Thanksgiving dinner. A wooden table provided the rustic backdrop for individual stacks of matte charcoal dishes. Neutral-coloured pumpkins were scattered amidst candles and greenery. It was perfect. […]
Our Nude Bodies: How Do I Protect My Daughter?
by on October 11, 2018 10 Comments
“If anyone ever touches your private parts, you hit them,” I told her. I’m sure she wondered why her mama was reversing the usual “do not hit” rule. My daughter’s cheeks are still soft with baby chub, though her body has lengthened. I stare at her four-year-old arms and legs sprawled out on the bottom […]
The Prophetic Period
by on September 19, 2018 18 Comments
Gurgle. Rumble. Ooze. Bloat. Expand. Bleed. Weep. Feelings. All of it. Too much of it. Chocolate. Ibuprofen. Netflix. More Chocolate. Rinse and repeat. Menstruation is no fun. The first few days are terrible. The pain is dull yet overpowering. The emotions burn with fury. I have a routine. I cancel all non-emergency plans, buy […]
