Auntie, I Hope You Dance!

Paying Homage to a Beautiful Soul

I have so many mixed emotions, but the feeling that supersedes all the rest is “honored.” One of my favorite aunts transitioned yesterday, leaving many confused, shaken, and heartbroken. I come from a huge family on both sides, and it’s difficult to see the people you once knew deteriorate or fade away. They literally become a memory, one that you hold on to for dear life. I am truly honored to have her in my life experience. All my aunts and uncles played a huge role in who I am today, but I would be remiss to not pay homage to three in particular. My Auntie Sara, Auntie Middy, and Auntie Teola. These three were different in their own way, and they all found different ways to connect with me.

Auntie Teola was the auntie that didn’t take no shit! Literally 🤷🏾‍♀️. She was rough around the edges but still very much a lady. She would have a cigarette hanging out the side of her mouth, legs crossed, and be cussing you out simultaneously. She was fun, she was vibrant and spunky, literally the life of the party! When I was younger, she would call the house just to tease me about the neckbones she made. She knew I loved neckbones, and my mother rarely made them for children. I would tell her I didn’t care, but I was jealous. She was the only auntie, and I mean the ONLY auntie I could call a “Heffa.” When we spoke, we had a unique way of greeting each other. I would say, “Hey there, Heffa,” and she’d say, “Hey there, Whach.” I will forever miss those greetings and the many conversations we’ve had. Furthermore, I’m grateful for all the times she showed up for my monumental moments, like my college graduation. She and my Auntie Sara drove all the way to Iowa to see me walk across the stage. That’s love and I’ll forever cherish those moments.

As I continue to grow spiritually, I’m learning that we are not these physical bodies, which keeps me a little more stable and grounded. I am having a human experience too, so I still struggle with these things; however, the journey is becoming a little easier and giving me a lot more understanding. Although I am saddened that I will no longer get to see her physically, I know her soul has transcended to higher heights. She and many others that have transitioned did just that. They took off the garment and returned to the source of who we are: LOVE! Many will feel they lost so much from her passing, but I have gained so much from her living!

 I am truly honored to have known her, connected with her, and been taught by her.

Auntie, I hope you dance!

Family, sending ALL my love!

As always, the divine in me recognizes the divine in you!

-Keyanna