Author: akashah

As I contemplate the road ahead, I find motivation in the challenge oftaking action and starting something new – specifically, in writing a book. I find the prospect quite intriguing. What will I learn about myself this time? I know I have a desire to be unique and resist conformity (surprise, surprise), as well as […]

I see myself as a special kind of mystic, embracing the unexplainable mysteries of life. I believe a mystic possesses a strong sense of self, calmness, trust, curiosity, and acceptance. Through various experiences and moments of connection, I have glimpsed my mystical self and felt the vastness of being alive. Now That You Ask is […]

Did you know that I was in a beauty contest? It’s true. It was called the Maid of Cotton contest. It all started when my mother decided it would be a good experience for me to participate. Reluctantly, I agreed and went through the rigorous preparations for the contest. To my surprise, I won the […]

Lately I’ve been asking myself “What is going on with me?” I am a little worried about myself to be honest. I have always loved the holidays, but this year I am really struggling with the social aspects. Of course, the pandemic shaped my perspective on solitude and I now delve into the joys and […]

If you were born in the South, say, 50 to 60, 70 years ago, you were baptized with an unquenchable love for college football. In this episode, I share my personal story of growing up in Alabama and being immersed in the passionate world of college football fandom. From the fierce rivalry between Alabama and […]

The holiday season brings me such me joy. And it’s in the little things. From the excitement of finding surprises for loved ones to the joy of giving and receiving, the holiday season is a time of celebration and togetherness. I just love Thanksgiving and the opportunity it provides to reflect on the things I […]

As someone who has been both an activist and a spiritual seeker, I desire for humanity to embrace hope, even in the face of current chaos. I believe that personal growth and kindness is important and that our purpose is not just about acquiring material things but evolving into the best versions of ourselves. This […]

Contemplating age, I realize I have a choice: to define myself by years or by how I truly feel. This awareness becomes crucial in navigating moments of feeling low. Despite occasional dips, I acknowledge the power to decide whether to carry these emotions with me or let them go. From a simpler lifestyle abroad to […]

With crisis comes lessons. In this episode, I reflect on the lessons I learned and the determination that arose from a medical event I experienced in my twenties. It was scary. It was frustrating. But with that challenge I discovered that I know my body best and made a vow to take control of my […]

I recently had a truly transformative experience visiting Kehinde Wiley’s exhibit, “An Archaeology of Silence,” at the de Young Museum in San Francisco. In an attempt to capture the profound impact of the artwork, this episode is a heartfelt letter to the artist, expressing my gratitude and awe. Wiley’s colossal paintings of young black individuals, […]