We are bringing “Darling Letters” from your inbox to the blog! We love the art of letter writing and believe it helps build authentic community. Our editors and contributors have thoughtfully written encouraging letters to cut through the busyness and speak straight to your heart.
Recently, I sat down with a pen in one hand and a glass of wine in the other. I turn 30 this month, and I can’t help but feel the weight that a new decade of life brings. I needed to reflect.
Twenty nine was a rough year. I battled depression, grappled with my identity as a Black woman in America, ended an engagement, moved cities, focused on my healing and, ultimately, found my air again. A wash of emotions came over me as I scribbled: I’m so proud.
A wash of emotions came over me as I scribbled: I’m so proud.
Twenty nine taught me to trust myself. It forced me to face my tendency to romanticize destinations while fearing the journey. It loosened the death grip I had on trying to control what I thought should be and allowed me to be present in what was. It built me up, tore me down and revealed a space that feels more for me than what I’d created in my mind.
I always thought that the destination was the prize. However, it’s the journey and the moments along the way—whether painful or exhilarating—that offer the most valuable gifts and sometimes, even the most rewarding redirects. It is with this knowledge that I bravely step into my 30s.
I always thought that the destination was the prize, [but] it’s the journey and the moments along the way that offer the most valuable gifts.
No matter where you are on your path, trust your intuition—for it will always take you to your destination.
Jacie Scott, the Darling family
What is the value in taking in the present moment—both the good and the bad? What is one thing you know now—a year older and wiser—that you didn’t know a year ago?
Image via Judith Pavón Sayrach
2 comments
Everything happens when it has to happen and everyone everywhere are where they need to be. For that, I believe that I am exactly where I need to be and will never miss out on what is meant for me. Thank you for this inspirational article.
Thank you for your kind words Albany! Jacie is such a great writer and very appreciated by the Darling team!