My husband and I returned back to an old neighborhood where we grew up to attend a local Community Fall Festival sponsored by Children's Hospital. We brought along our son and nephew to enjoy all of the festivities. There were games, giveaways, free food, and so much more. This event was a blast and it was so nice to see so many smiling faces.
There was a time when this neighborhood was considered poor, dangerous, and on the verge of being forgotten. You'd never guess it but I used to run these same streets as a teenager. My grandparents owned several homes in the area. My brother stayed in one of those homes while my older sister participated in competitive sports. As for me, well I was just loving on life trying to figure things out.
There I was, revisiting my past and giving thanks to a neighborhood that brought me a little pain and many joys. I didn't appreciate it's beauty until I was at the festival and I could see the happiness and strength that our community was known for. Then I was quickly reminded that I had my first kiss here, rented my first house here, and whopped a lot of ass here. LOL! Not to mention this neighborhood produced one hell of a man whom would later become my best friend and husband of more than 20 years!
Thank you to all of the mothers who didn't give up and chose hope over fear. Thank you to all of the business owners who stayed because they could see the value in our dollars. Thank you to our family's who showed us how to give back. Thank you to our fathers who stepped up when we needed you most. Thank you to our community who continues to stand for justice, prosperity, equality, and peace. Without you there is no me!