My Daddy was a jazz musician. I didn't follow in his footsteps. I am a dancer.
My Mother worked for the Federal Government for years. I was not so good at keeping a job for more than 2 1/2 years at a time. Now I substitute teach.
My big sister retired from the Police Force in her city and admonished me to 'put away a little something' every week. Even if it was just $5. I didn't. I haven't.
My second sister passed unnoticed. She was sick for most of her life. It was inevitable.
And here I stand.
I like to think that I have come into my own. Is there a problem if there is no one to see the progression? I am impressed.
I like to think that I have matured in my own way. Is there a problem if there is no one who remembers me then? I am proud of how far I have come.
I like to believe that I have become a better, wiser, woke and conscious individual. So are the people who surround me. We are of like mind. They wouldn't notice. I notice all the time. I am connected. I am supported. The Universe has my back.
I still love the arts. I love to dance. I love to act. I love to be onstage. I love to be backstage. I am a star in my own show.
I love to support. I am your cheerleader. I believe in you. I am Samela Sunshine. I bring the light!
I love to speak. I love to lead. I love to inspire. I am your motivation. Look who I am. Look what I'm doing. Has opportunity passed me by? No, I say.
I am an advocate for multicultural individuals 55 years and older. Society says we are old at 50, Senior Citizens at 55, Elderly at 65 and then, Invisible. Not true! My heart is still in it. My head is still in it. My body is willing to participate to the best of its ability and I am willing to fight the good fight. For our dignity, for our humanity and for our visibility.
It is good to be alive. I know my family can see me. I know they are proud.
