My birthday trip to Jamaica was everything I could have wanted and more. It was like one of those movies I love so much—action, romance, comedy and drama with a twist. Black women on a Caribbean vacation celebrating and having fun. I wouldn’t say I found my groove, but I did lose something—my inhibition. I let go of my usual prudish, uptight self. About time! That side of me had been around a little too long. That side of me started slowly emerging a few years ago for what I could only resolve was for my own protection—to act as a reminder to never repeat the mistakes of the past. In time, she began to take over. She started to change my way of thinking. What used to be considered fun now made me incredibly sad and shameful. She decided it was time for a change. So, instead of wild and loose, I became stuffy and rigid. I can’t tell you which is more unattractive. It might be a tie.
It took Jamaica and my girls to reintroduce me to genuine enjoyment. I planned on having fun but I didn’t plan on having a blast. Jamaica showed me her very best side. And, I reciprocated. It was really very easy. Each breathtaking moment it got a little easier. All I had to do was relax, look around, take in the surrounding beauty, exhale, repeat. As the hours slowly floated by, I incorporated a few more steps: sip, take a dip, lie on the beach, eat, repeat. After 30 minutes, I couldn’t help but surrender. Time seemed to stand still. Eventually, time disappeared all together. Before I knew it, I was enjoying myself with an open mind and open arms welcoming Jamaica.
