Sep 11

Sep 11 Welcome Home - Karibu -Sana

I first decided to travel to Zanzibar because of the beauty of this location, listed on Travel Noire. I needed healing that I could never find at home, from self infliction and others. I have been Too busy zooming into life that I had been unable to see the big picture.

So I pay my deposit for, Zanzibar. It was my first time in the motherland and it resonates in my soul. Everyone took their arms and cradled me with love, kindness, and communal safety, extending from my black girl magic sisters to strangers in the street.

I knew, from the moment I got off the plane and was told

"oh sister, Karibu, welcome home. You look like you belong here."

I was in for a treat, but I couldn't fathom anything as profound as the actual magnitude of blessings received.

It was an adventure, that led to a creation of family, finding our roots back in the sos pwa, white rice, and cassava.

Bonding with Leaders (all women) in Tumbatu showing us how hustles are made from scratch and that all seeds really did begin here.

I have had this echoing theme during my trip:

"we are already super heroes, that translates in every culture and language because it resonates from our ancestors"

Humility is implanted in my heart, encountering in the genuine joy of simplicity : a simple branch to nap on, sharing food with the village, taking a picture with all the ladies, eating fruit in unison, talking with children and sharing birthdays.

Modesty is everything here, and you know it's lit when, you cover yourself completely and all the men can't help but express how beautiful we look.

I have been in awe of the differences and similarities, all the roots and branches and trees found in a country and people previously foreign to me.

This has been a celebration of life and a reminder that you can Pole Pole (slow down) through life and still make an impact.

Why run through the scenery when you can walk pole pole and admire it's beauty?

Do not let anyone fool you, there may be poverty but paradise has always been in Africa.

Where Hakuna Matata is an honest way of life,

Dearest Zanzibar, Asante Sana, I am so greatful.

P.S.

Writing this in my taxi back through Stone Town, I got Deja Vu. God already told me I was to be here, on my ride back to the airport with these amazing ladies, writing this while in Africa.