Thank you for being patient and sticking around during my hiatus. A special welcome to all of the new readers and subscribers!

Something that I shared this week on social media. I am currently in a season of shedding. Shedding layers of myself, spaces, people, etc… A lot has changed within me. But let’s stick to the topic on hand.

In the past I used to feel a saddened, or like the friendship or relationship had failed. But I no longer look at it from that perspective. Ive been saying asking myself about what those relationships taught me, and express gratitude. After all, that’s what we came here. To experience duality and overcome and grow from life’s challenges. I am also becoming more accepting and okay with the fact that not every person that’s in our lives today, necessarily will always be there. Whether death, or like what I am—many are currently going through. Whether you refer to is as change, shedding, detachment, elevating, awakening, depression—the fact remains that not everyone is meant to come along or have a seat at the table wherever is is that I am going. And that’s okay. I can still send love and gratitude for what was. And that’s how Ive been maneuvering through this.

I also remind myself to be gentle with myself. That it might take some time to assimilate into this new me. This more grounded, confident me. And looking back, I have been on this path since 2016. Relationships with family members has completely changed. I’ve removed myself from toxic environments, and have learned to be much more comfortable in setting and enforcing boundaries. Not just with others but with myself as well. That really has been a game changer. It can be as simple as not necessarily having to cut people out of my life. I just don’t give certain people the same access to me.

Now back to the message I shared from my social account. When it comes to my relationships… Just because we have known each other for many years does not mean that we are best of friends. You are just a long time friend or acquaintance. I personally need presence and consistency. I am also realistic and know that we are all battling something, and many (myself included) tend to retreat or go into “hermit mode” during that time. Trust me I am fully aware of this. I am also aware that I am not perfect. But am also happy that many of my close friends and I have had the tough conversations. The “hey, please don’t ever be afraid to hold me accountable…” talks. I just don’t like when so much time passes in communication that when you do reconnect all that you’re doing is sort of going through the last year or more in life updates. I want people at my table that have been with me in my highs and lows. That’s what it comes down to. Are you going through something similar? If so how are you coping?

I am no longer into Instagram. Maybe that changes in the future? I deactivated for several reasons. Went back on and did not do much on it. I’d just scroll for a few and leave. I spend whatever time online either listing my clothing for sale on Vinted/Depop/Poshmark as Miss Cindia and/or spend some time on Threads. In the meantime whatever photos I take I’ll hold and share here when I do my Hidden Gems posts.

Until next time!

Love, light, the shadow too, Cin.