Have you ever dealt with the side effects of dealing with a narcissistic person? If you have, then you know it is a draining experience. It drains you in many ways. But have you ever thought that the person you are dealing with might have a mental disorder that appears to mimic narcissism? Recently, I found that to be true.

Self-doubt has been a constant companion in my life, rooted in childhood experiences where my feelings went unheard. It wasn’t until I began to look inward and reflect on my past that I discovered the source of my doubt: I had learned to ignore my intuition. Through self-discovery, I realized that trusting myself is essential for growth. Life’s challenges are opportunities to strengthen our confidence and patience—no matter how cliché it may sound, we truly can overcome self-doubt.

Growing up with the belief that money was something to fear and avoid, I found myself trapped in a cycle of financial insecurity. Rooted in guilt from religious teachings, I struggled with the idea of prosperity. But through self-reflection, I’ve learned that money itself isn’t evil—it’s the fear of it that holds us back. By letting go of the fear and embracing abundance, I’ve opened myself up to the blessings I once thought were unattainable. It’s time to break free from old beliefs and accept the financial growth that is rightfully ours.

After facing financial setbacks, I learned valuable lessons on rebuilding my credit and stabilizing my finances. Through practical steps like developing a plan, setting up autopay, and prioritizing debt repayment, I managed to get back on my feet. The journey wasn’t easy, but staying calm, making strategic decisions, and applying for a secured credit card helped me regain financial confidence. These tips are part of my personal journey to overcome bad credit, and I hope they inspire others to take control of their financial future, no matter their starting point.

As a member of Generation X, I’ve made a conscious effort to teach my children differently, breaking away from outdated generational beliefs. Now, as we raise Generation Alpha, it’s crucial to reflect on the lessons we wish we had learned earlier and ensure we don’t pass down limiting ideas. Our nation also faces generational issues that hinder growth, and it’s up to us to change that. Voting with common sense, prioritizing true progress, and fostering unity are essential steps toward building a better future for the next generation. We must move beyond political loyalty and focus on what’s truly needed for our nation’s prosperity.

September brought overwhelming grief as I remembered the loss of two important mother figures in my life, Ms. Carrie Jacobs and my great-grandmother. Visiting their resting places in search of peace, I struggled with the emptiness of their absence. Yet, through the tears and pain, I began to let go of guilt and embraced the love and lessons they left behind. Their guidance shaped me, and in honoring their memories, I found a sense of peace and healing.

I recently attended the Atlanta R&B Music Experience, and while I was excited to see some of my favorite artists, the night turned out to be a mix of highs and lows. From sound issues to delays, and even the unexpected absence of Dru Hill, the event was full of surprises. Monica’s performance, though stunning, didn’t start until after midnight, and the long wait left many fans disappointed. As someone who is a fan of each performer, I left feeling that my expectations hadn’t been met, especially after waiting nearly six hours to hear Monica’s angelic voice. Despite the hiccups, I’m still hoping for an apology or explanation for what went wrong that night.