Journey to Harmony
Reflections on the last decade and advice I would give to my younger self
I am in a reflective mood as I approach the milestone of turning 40. Recently, I was asked what I would say to my younger self, and my immediate response was to advise patience, reminding me that things come with time. However, I realized my younger, ambitious self would have dismissed such advice as ludicrous. Reflecting on my journey, I see how much I have grown, and how the experiences, no matter how difficult, have shaped who I am today.
Before I turned 18, I faced more challenges than many people experienced in a lifetime. I was blinded in a freak accident at 5. Then I struggled with severe depression as a teenager, which led to multiple suicide attempts. Unbeknownst to me, a thyroid disease contributed to these feelings by creating a hormonal imbalance. This, coupled with frequent illness, made school a challenge and led to misunderstandings about my commitment to education. One guidance counselor even denied me recommendations to college because she did not think I deserved them. Then at 16, I was wrongfully charged with arson and attempted murder, as an adult, simply because I was a young Black teenager present at the scene. These experiences left me feeling hopeless and thinking my life was over. It wasn’t until recently that I fully understood how profoundly these events have impacted my life.
At 39, I finally understand the importance of forgiving myself for the traumas I’ve endured. Holding onto these traumas only prevented me from moving forward and achieving my potential. I’ve learned that forgiveness is not just about others but also about freeing myself from the burdens of the past.
A significant turning point came when I visited the White House recently thanks to the efforts of Patrick Driscoll. This visit was not just a professional milestone but a personal victory, representing how far I’ve come. It made me realize that despite my fears of not doing enough to repay the debt I felt I owed society, I am indeed making a meaningful impact. This especially felt true when I was able to represent The Great 38™️ and encourage greater investment and infrastructure into our country's most dynamic and diverse communities.
One of my core missions is to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, sexuality, or geographic location, has access to the resources they need to succeed. Whether through DVRGNT Ventures, The Wealth Salons, or my consulting work, I strive to create opportunities for others to thrive. This mission is especially important for historically underinvested communities who often face systemic barriers to success.
So my revised advice to my younger self would say that while there’s nothing I can tell you today that will make everything better, time will reveal the possibilities of good. It’s essential to be patient and continue striving for your goals, even when things seem hopeless.
As I celebrate my 39th birthday and reflect on the past, I am grateful for the journey that has brought me here. The friction and discomfort I’ve experienced have been crucial for my growth. Moving forward, I am committed to making a positive impact and ensuring that others have the opportunities they need to succeed.
To anyone feeling discouraged or overwhelmed, remember that time and perseverance can change your future. Be the best version of yourself that you can be and define your success on your own terms. Together, we can create a world where everyone has the chance to thrive.
Thank you for reading and joining me on this journey. Here’s to more growth, impact, and harmony.