Kezbara

Had you told me I’d go on to live 13 years without my Yara, I would’ve laughed in your face. Had you told me I’d sit through 13 birthdays without my twin, I couldn’t have handled even the thought of it.

Had you told me I’d survive watching tayta die right before my eyes, I wouldn’t have believed you.

Had you told me about Amin, jeddo’s stroke and illness, the emotional struggles, Rayo’s illness and loss, building a company through a pandemic, living through wars, and bearing witness to injustice… I would’ve honestly told you I wouldn’t survive.

But here I am.

Here’s my heart.
Still beating.
Still hoping.
Still choosing joy, even when it has to sit beside grief.

To everyone I’ve loved and lost,
I hope I’ll always be able to make you proud.

I promise I’ve tried my best to keep going, and I always will.
I promise to carry you with me into every new year I’m blessed to have on this earth.
I promise to honor your beautiful memories for as long as I live.

As I walk into 35, I carry every version of myself that got me here.

I carry gratitude, and a heart that will forever cherish depth, seek meaning, lead with kindness, and choose love.

Over and over again ♥️