Celebrating Life, Embracing Change: A Tribute to My Beloved Mary
- May 24, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Aug 8, 2024
Tribe,
As we approach May 28 and Memorial Day, I'm reflecting on what it means to lose…and gain. And grief and joy. Vacancy and fulfillment. Let's just say May 28 is a beautiful conundrum for me.
Let me explain.
On May 28, 2019, my beloved Mary L. Beauchamp, My Mary, my Beautiful Soul, my beloved grandmother, transitioned after 13 years of what the human mind would call physical and emotional purgatory. After a random, tragic fall, my most vibrant soulmate and most consistent life collaborator to date, was paralyzed, bedridden, and without consistent communication. My beloved mom and I remained at her side. (I love you, Mom!)
I don't speak often about these years. But the gravity of becoming a 28-year-old caregiver, entrepreneur, and public figure all at once was not easy.
That said, on May 28, I am choosing not to mourn but to celebrate Mary's life.
I will meet Mary at sunrise outdoors in Malibu on a beach that mimics her warm embrace and smile that greeted me daily most of my life. I will eat collard greens seasoned just so. I will pray the prayer she taught me when I was 2 or 3. "Our father who art in Heaven, hallowed be thy name..."
I'll write a love letter to her, as has become my custom. I'll call a few of her girlfriends who still remain to say, "Thank you for being my earliest examples of sisterhood!" (Ms. Alston and Aunt Vivian, I love you!)
The Power of Grief and Reflection
I know that grief is real, especially as we age and lose people we love. And yet I know that grief and deep reflection on our past make room for a greater appreciation for our possibilities and the future. So as we move into this new season (it's summa summa time) perhaps, you may need to grieve or release something or someone.
As you do so, may you find peace in knowing that when we lovingly release someone or something, even when it's painful, we create new space for different or new things, experiences, or people to be planted, and watered to be renewed again.
AFFIRM:
Honoring Heritage and Supporting Communities
Did you know that May is also Asian American Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage month? In the spirit of honoring women of AANHPI descent, let's move to support brands within this community! Here are a few remarkable ones to check out:
Silk + Sonder: @SilkandSonder was born out of a need that Meha found when trying to create a positive, consistent, and desirable connection with journaling as a way to improve mental wellness!
Skin of Color by Dr. Vanetta Rattan: Skin health for you! When @drvanitarattan created her brand, she had one demographic in mind: people with skin of color. Take a look into Skin Revolution, her professional insight on all things melanated skin!
Song Of Skin: For the skincare lovers! @songofskinofficial was created by a mother and daughter duo who wanted to make Korean skincare more accessible and affordable.
Our Place: Food! Glorious Food! @ourplace creates kitchen utensils to bring the family you make together; laying the “foundation for making connections across the table.”
COVRY: Eye See You! Finding a lack of diversity and a one-size-fits-all approach in the world of eyewear, Florence and Athina sought inclusivity through their Elevated Fit technology. Follow them on IG @shopcovry
CONNECT:
Get to Know Tribe Member Regene Polk Ross
" I was born… in Detroit, where I spent all my summers as a kid, and raised in Houston from the age of 5. It’s the best city in the great state of Texas!
I am…Justin’s mom forever! And I’m at a crossroads and looking to find meaning and purpose in where I’ve been, my life experiences, and who I hope to become.
For a living I…Create and execute strategic plans for marketing and communications.
I feel most at peace when…I’m at a beach at sunset and thanking God for His grace and mercy.
My favorite quote is…“This above all: to thine own self be true.” - Polonius in Shakespeare’s Hamlet
I am #MindfullyMe when I…Stop and focus on and give thanks in the present moment, not the past and not tomorrow.
Connect with me on IG: @rtimes2 "
She's coming to Bali!
Thanks to our sister Nichole Knight, Regene Polk Ross will join Tai and the Tribe in Ubud, Bali! Check out the video of when Tai and Nichole surprised her on Zoom!
Register here and join me, Regene, and the rest of the tribe for the ultimate elevating experience in Bali!
RESET:
Are You THINKING Big Enough?
Former Miss USA, motivational speaker, and captain in the United States Army Reserve @deshauanabarber knows how to speak a word doesn’t she?
I want to encourage you to process what our sister said a bit deeper.
If you aren’t thriving to your potential, ask yourself if you have placed yourself in the right environment and in a space that is large enough for you…not just where you are today but who you are becoming.
The world is waiting for you in ALL of your glory!
Moving Forward with Grace
As we navigate through the seasons of our lives, let's remember to honor our past, cherish our present, and embrace our future. Whether through personal reflection, celebrating the lives of those we've lost, or supporting vibrant communities, we have the power to create a beautiful, fulfilling life.
Thank you for being part of this journey with me. Together, let's continue to celebrate, uplift, and support each other.
With love and light,
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