This would typically cause me great fear to respond to, but if you can identify what you’re good at, then there is no ‘no.’ Life is about selling yourself; here it goes.

1. I have a strong ability to sense subtle changes in the body and temperament of both humans and animals. I discovered this gift after my mom passed away. Life is precious, and when it comes to saving a life, I prefer to ask for forgiveness rather than permission.
2. I’m quite good at organizing files and objects. Having moved a lot, it has become a skill of mine.
3. I’ve learned to care for plants, and now it soothes me to nurture them.
4. Speed reading. I can get to the point on contract or verbose documents quickly.
5. I tend to be clumsy, and I wouldn’t be me if I didn’t poke fun at myself for it. However, I have also developed strong organizational skills that help me minimize my clumsiness. In fact, four out of my five strengths come from compensating for this flaw.

Depending on my age, my answers would have varied. At 10, I blamed my circumstances; at 20, my appearance; at 30, my relationships. By 40, I regretted my choices, made without God’s guidance. I should have sought him more. I am sorry for the outcome. I feel I’ve disappointed God, although I know that’s not possible.

I have equal appreciation for both. The day often lights my path on lifes journey while the night prepares me for the journey.

I have a burnt orange sweater that I wear constantly. It’s extremely warm, although it’s not very flattering. The second piece I have is a zip-up hoodie that I found belonging to my mom. I like wearing it because it makes me feel closer to her.

The irony of this question is being black, woman or both would’ve prevented me from being in the presence of a few of the historical figures I would like to meet. I believe that’s why it is important to choose who you look up to wisely. It makes me a bit of a rebel but I can only chose those who would choose me; that would narrow it down to Jesus and a few civil rights leaders.

I don’t know about other pets, but my dogs were exceptional. My Pomeranian, Copper, was incredibly smart. He was adventurous and friendly, but he disliked kids and anyone who tried to get my attention. When he died in my arms, family members near and far cried. I hope there’s a heaven for dogs, and that I will see him again someday. again. 

Kali, my rescue dog, is different from him. I’m not sure what her breed is; she is adopted and has a grateful, sweet demeanor. Don’t be confused—she loves to play and is just smart enough to know when it’s playtime. In fact, her perception of time and seasons is something I truly admire. She understands change. Whenever there’s a shift in my emotions, she rushes to my side to comfort me.

One day, I overslept my alarm, and she gently placed her two front paws on my abdomen and nudged me. She is a bit spoiled because I learned a lot from my previous dog, Copper, and I knew I needed to be a more responsible owner. A pet can be your greatest asset if you raise them right; Kali is my alarm, protector, and emotional support. In return, I treat her with the utmost respect and care.

My diploma…. All of them to date have been very expensive.

I feel overwhelmed with everything I have to do, and if I had extra time, I would take it. I didn’t truly pay attention to this until my 30s. Now that I see the bigger picture, I wish I had more time. I am 41 years old, and I wonder if I can accomplish everything in time. Do I have enough health left in me? These thoughts constantly run through my mind.

If I have a lifespan like my mom, that means I have less than 25 years left. If I have a lifespan like my great-grandmother, that could mean I have 60 years. I often think about the time I have left with my family, and I am grateful for any amount of time God gives me. If I could, I would gladly take extra time.

My day would be called Diversity Day, a joyous celebration of the humanities. An observance of the various cultures, religions, gender identity, and self-expression, inspiring a sense of unity and togetherness.