Pride and growth
Last weekend I went out to UK Black Pride for the second time. Last year felt a bit isolating, as it was my first time there and frankly I was very nervous. This time around, it was different in a good way. The main free event had been moved to Haggerston Park in Hackney, East London. I wasn’t sure how much bigger the space I was going to, but when I got there, I was massively and pleasantly surprised.
Immediately, I realised it was at least five times bigger than Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens. All the stalls were lined up and buzzing with people. Acts were starting to perform on the main stage. I ended up heading over to the WellBeing tent to listen to a talk by friends of mine, about the recent protest over the ‘No Outsiders’ programme. There was so much to see and do, but the atmosphere was really different.
It felt like I came to a grassroots family who understood my struggle as someone who’s black, queer and trans.
It felt like I came to a grassroots family who understood my struggle as someone who’s black, queer and trans. People were decked out in brilliant outfits. Some were simple string vests for the weather, others colourful, ornate and powerful in their presence. It felt truly like I belonged there, rather than constantly being on alert for being ‘too black’ or ‘too vivid’ or just too much.
Coming back to work with clients this week made me think: Why can’t I bring that type of energy all the time? Why can’t I feel wanted, celebrated and accepted? Why not? What’s actually stopping me? Then I thought about my daily things that I do: Do I give myself space to meditate and journal? Do I treat myself (even if its once in a while?) and so on.
It reminded me of all the events I’ve been to. Be it a conference or a gig, the ‘afterglow’ was sublime and blissful, but then it went away and that’s fine. However, I want to bring new lessons and skills to pass onto client I must become familiar with it, its only fair so I can enable them to improve their lives holistically. Its the everyday growth that matters.
Until next time, #embraceinfinity
