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  • How in the world did I end up here?

    This weekend, I was standing on top of a hill with a fortress and a lighthouse that overlooked the Mediterranean Sea in a small beach town in Spain called Tossa De Mer. It was absolutely breathtaking. And I never even heard of this place before we arrived. All I could think was, “How in the world did I get here?”

    Flashback five years ago, I was at a job in Ohio, and I was not particularly happy for many reasons. Guided by a strong intuition (and maybe my misery as well), I left my career as a sportscaster to start my own company, theunsealed.com. We are a platform that allows people to share personal stories in an effort to use writing to transform pain into power. If you know me, you know The Unsealed fuels my soul. It makes me excited to wake up in the morning and fills my life with meaning and purpose. For the first three years after starting my company, I worked every single day – most of the time, ten hours a day. No vacations. No days off. And I was perfectly happy doing so.

    Personally, I have always enjoyed dating and the attention that comes with it, but after two very serious relationships in my early and mid-twenties, for a long time, I didn’t want anything serious. I always feared that a relationship would and could hold me back, especially when I was a sportscaster, and I didn’t know what city or what job would be next. However, as I became more certain that The Unsealed was what I wanted to do and could do with my life, I became cautiously more open to the idea of a partnership.

    Then, after the pandemic, my brother sent me an online flyer for an event. It was called Miami Tech Night; a networking event held every Wednesday in Miami for people who work in tech. My brother thought it would be a great opportunity for me to meet people in my industry. So, as I usually do, I followed my brother’s advice. It was maybe my second or third time attending when this tall, handsome man approached me and asked me what I did for a living. I happily told him, and then he shared a little bit about his career. As we chatted more and more, he revealed that he had started a successful online business in his 20s and sold it. I was impressed, intrigued, and inspired. He invited me to my favorite taco spot down the street to continue the conversation after the event. We quickly realized we had similar interests and family values.

    From there, we started spending time together almost daily. Every week seemed to get better and better. So, one day, about three months into our relationship, I suggested getting away from Miami for a few weeks during the summer. Summers are so hot, muggy, and humid in Miami. I proposed L.A., and he said he had wanted for a while to take this massive three-month trip to Europe. He asked if I would be willing to come along. In theory, it sounded amazing, but I needed to work! Plus, leaving my dog for that long would not be easy for me.

    My parents agreed to watch my dog, and my boyfriend promised me I could work as much as I wanted on the trip. He’s been where I am, so he gets it. I agreed to go, and for the first time maybe ever, I am figuring out how to have a work-life balance, waking up early to work before we go out for an excursion, and finding cafes in every city to continue to put in at least eight hours every weekday. Instead of resenting me, my boyfriend pushes me to wake up early and goes to play tennis when he doesn’t have his own work to get done.

    At night and on the weekends, when we have time, we have the most incredible experiences exploring the world together, visiting castles in Portugal, wandering the Gothic Quarter in Barcelona, and getting lost in the public transportation system somewhere in Europe (super grateful to the restaurant owner who called us a taxi).

    There is no way if you told me five years ago I would be here right now, I would believe you. But as I sit in a cafe in Spain and reflect, I realize I don’t know exactly where my life is headed, but I do know how I got where I am right now. And that is by personally and professionally following my heart.

    With love,
    Lauren

    P.S. Special shoutout to my boyfriend – thank you for believing in me, pushing me, loving me, and inspiring me. And thank you for speaking three languages. We certainly would get far more lost otherwise!

    Lauren

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    • I love this story. This inspires me to hold onto faith and to let things happen on its own. Thank you so much for sharing this beautiful story. I’m happy you were able to balance work and travel.

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    • Lauren!!! I love this line “I don’t know exactly where my life is headed, but I do know how I got where I am right now. And that is by personally and professionally following my heart.” It’s exactly the space I’m in where life can be so mysterious. While that can be unsettling there is hope in knowing that by following our dreams and what we l…read more

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      • Thank you so much. I have more faith now than ever that if you follow your heart, things have a funny way of falling into place. <3 Lauren

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    • This is my favorite story

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  • Lauren Brill shared a letter in the Group logo of Chasing Your DreamsChasing Your Dreams group 10 months ago

    This is why I am making the world my workplace for the summer

    As a kid, I was adventurous, riding rollercoasters at age five, going on a plane by myself at seven, and willing to travel just about anywhere up through my college years. I am not sure if it was the pandemic or the tragedies we see daily in the news, or maybe just me getting older, but somehow, along my journey, my fearless spirit began to fade.

    In April, my boyfriend (of just a few months at the time) proposed a trip of a lifetime, three months of traveling all over Europe while working remotely. In theory, it sounded amazing. I went to Europe in my teens and early 20s and loved it. But three months is a long time away from my family and dog, and Europe feels so distant from home. I was scared to go.

    Nonetheless, knowing how much my boyfriend wanted to travel and how wonderful an opportunity and privilege this trip truly is, I agreed to go with him. However, during the three weeks leading up to the trip, I had two separate back spasms/herniated discs, and, for the first time in my life, I fainted and hit my head pretty hard. Maybe it was a coincidence, maybe not. But I definitely felt very anxious.

    Once we made it to our apartment in Barcelona, Spain, I felt slightly more at ease. So far, we’ve walked for miles and miles along the beach, not knowing where we were going or what we wanted to do. We’ve tried delicious food that was possibly worth the ensuing stomachache. And I have attempted to speak and understand a language I do not know. All the while, my boyfriend and I are beginning to learn more about each other’s quirks as we fully live together for the first time.

    As I sit here writing in a cafe in Barcelona, eating new food, working on The Unsealed, and listening to various languages in a city I don’t know very well at all, I am now hopeful that getting a little lost in this world will help me find a part of myself that I thought was long gone.

    Lauren

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    • To be able to travel all over the world is super cool and It’s a great thing that you’ve got you traveling mojo back and that you’re traveling with the one you love. Thank you for sharing

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    • Lauren I am so grateful to have seen your letter. As a young woman that desperately wants to travel but didn’t even go away for school it comforts me in so many ways to see you pushing past your fears and learning how to live in a way that’s such a genuine experience. I pray that soon I’ll be able to tell my own version of this story and I hope to…read more

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      • I somehow missed this response when you wrote it but saw it today. Definitely push yourself outside your comfort zone. It was the best summer of my life, not to mention I fell completely in love with my boyfriend. I was so scared to go and now I want to go back. I can’t wait to hear your story :). Lauren

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  • malakkc shared a letter in the Group logo of PoetryPoetry group 10 months ago

    Stealthy Labyrinth

    A Labyrinth of life and living
    Flies by with the passing minutes,
    Striving to leave imprints,
    That are positive in their fleeting

    Flight, that they can’t be bound.
    Imprisoned by labels, categories,
    Races, and groups that astound
    In their versatility, but not humanities.

    I’ve lived in this labyrinth of life,
    Where negativity was the succor
    Given by some of my entourage, that’s rife
    With jealousy, bias, and is a bereaver.

    They suck out the optimism and
    Joy of life out of each stupendous second,
    That you fear drowing in the labyrinth
    Of fiery destruction that steals your breath.

    Instead, let the minutia of the labyrinth
    Turn into an adventurous life in stealth.

    ©️ Malak kalmoni chehab ©️

    Malak Kalmoni Chehab

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    • Your poem captures the nature of life’s difficulties and the struggle to find positivity during the confusion. The metaphor of the labyrinth is very effective in conveying the sense of being lost.

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  • malakkc shared a letter in the Group logo of PoetryPoetry group 10 months, 4 weeks ago

    Pirouette

    I watch as she pirouettes,
    Her dress, a parachute, flies
    In waves to her flutters.

    Her sensual beauty attracts
    An audience, not for her moves,
    But for the supplication in her eyes.

    They shine with an inner peace
    That translates into a pace
    Shinier than the purest diamond face.

    My gaze is glued to her flexible
    Limbs that have divined that the rain bubble
    Ensconces her in a world where trouble

    Is an abstract concept she’s never
    Experienced, as her innocent cover
    Protects her as she adds prayer to the dancer.

    As her body flows, swings, undulates,
    She hears titters on her esthetics.
    She says: ‘Believe in a faith that provides
    Truth and dares to challenge lies.’

    They then turn away and bicker,
    Having forgotten why she was a riveting picture.

    ©️Malak kalmoni chehab ©️

    Malak Kalmoni Chehab

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    • This is so beautiful. I can visualize the imagery here. Thank you so much for sharing your words. This poem is a reminder to never let anyone shake your confidence <3 lauren

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    • This poem is very beautiful. And the imagery is very detailed. “her dress, a parachute, flies” is by far my favorite line because it’s so easy to imagine her dress and her movement. Thank you for sharing

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  • Thank you Grandpa Herby

    Dear Grandpa,

    It’s been nearly 25 years since I last saw you, and what I remember most about you is how you made me feel. Whether at dinner on the holidays, playing cards, or sitting in your living room telling stories, you lived with a joy and zest for life that was so effortless, natural, and contagious.

    Growing up, you were very athletic, just like me. So when I would tell you about the plays I made or the goals I scored, you’d say, “That’s my little athlete,” knowing I got my athletic prowess from you. I was very outgoing as a child, telling a stranger my whole life story within the first five minutes of meeting them. Since you were not short of personality at any point in your life, you’d always say, with a grin, “We know where that one came from.”

    When I was around you, I always felt like you loved and believed in me and were proud that I was your granddaughter. Grandpa, you always made me happy, and you always made me smile.

    For many years, you had health problems: diabetes, cancer, and heart problems. During the fall of my first year of high school, you had what felt like your 10th heart attack and passed away the Friday after Thanksgiving. I was devastated. Your death was the first time I lost someone close to me. But I pressed on.

    For years, you told me the rain was good luck. So, to cope, I looked for rain to stay connected to you – a way to know you were still there. Sure enough, it rained on the day I graduated from high school. On August 15th, 2012, which would have been your 85th birthday, I was offered my first full-time on-air sports anchor/reporter job. It was pouring outside. And more recently, when I met my boyfriend, who treats me so well and makes me laugh, I asked what his name meant. When he said he didn’t know, I looked it up. His name means the God of Rain.

    With all my heart, Grandpa, I believe you are watching over me. You know I became a sportscaster, and you love that I started a business that advocates for kindness, courage, and equality. You are so overjoyed about the quality of my new boyfriend’s character, and you think it’s funny how my dog doesn’t let anyone within three feet of me. In fact, I think you may have something to do with that.

    So more than telling you that I miss you or even that I love you, what I want you to know is how you made me feel when I was a little girl is how you make me feel now.

    Thank you for still making me smile. Thank you for still making me happy.

    Love your little athlete,

    Lauren

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    • The world is getting smaller Lauren. Not only have we worked for the same companies but I was born and grew up in the Bronx for a short time in my life. Your grandfather may have known my great grandfather and possibly my grandparents. Beautifully written letter to your grandfather, makes me think of my grandparents myself. You’re surely making…read more

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  • Mom, this is what makes you so special

    Dear Mom, Here is what makes our relationship special.

    I am not the only person in the world who thinks they have the world’s greatest mom. But I am the only one who is right. There are so many reasons why you are a great mom. Growing up, you showed up at every dance recital, soccer game, graduation, and field trip. You did my hair as a little girl, even though you had to chase me around the house with a brush and a bow in hand for 20 minutes to do so. You took me to The Plaza for tea time and to restaurants in the city for lunch dates. And you have supported every dream I have ever had. While I cherish all those moments and memories, what really makes you the best mom is that you have never let me cry alone.

    In my worst moments, Mom, you have always been there to listen to, encourage, and give me advice. As a little girl, when I was upset about school or a boy and couldn’t sleep, you would sit in my bed and talk to me until I felt better. To this day, when I am sad or stressed or just need a friend, you are my first phone call. From my first breakup to my assault to the passing of my ex-boyfriend, you have held my hand, wiped my tears and. And somehow, you always make me feel better.

    Your warmth, consistency, and wisdom make you a cut above the rest. And as a result, I move through life feeling very loved. You make hard times more bearable and good times more meaningful.

    I am so lucky to have you, the best mom in the world.

    I love you with all my heart,

    Your daughter,

    Lauren

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    • Lauren, your letter is a beautiful recognition to the special bond you share with your mom. It’s amazing to see that you hold her to the highest level and believe that she is truly the world’s greatest mom. But what truly sets your mom apart is her unwavering presence during your toughest moments. She has never let you cry alone, always offering…read more

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  • Lauren Brill shared a letter in the Group logo of Mental HealthMental Health group 11 months, 3 weeks ago

    Dear World, Here is why I am grateful

    Dear World,

    I will admit sometimes I complain. Some days, I am grumpy and exhausted and feel the world’s weight on my shoulders. When I am knee-deep in those moments, I often go for a walk or rollerblade by the beach, where I look around and take a breath, and I am quickly reminded of how lucky I am. There are so many reasons I have to possess tremendous gratitude for my life.

    I live in one of the most beautiful cities in the country, with a roof over my head and food for every meal. A few years ago, I discovered my purpose and was able to start and pursue a business that speaks to my soul. I am, knock on wood, healthy and happy. Also, I have the most amazing people in my life.

    My mom calls me daily to check in, asking, “What are you doing? How’s your day.” She always wants to make sure I am happy and at my best. Throughout the week, you can catch my father sharing all my business social media posts, bursting with pride, and doing whatever he can to support my dreams. My big brother, Andrew, is my lifeline. He gives me the best advice, personally and professionally. He has a way of looking at my life challenges through a clear and logical lens and can always guide me. My friends are loving, supportive, and just a phone call away. Some proofread my writing, give me business tips, or listen to me for hours talk about whatever I need to get off my chest. They want nothing more than to see me live my best life. And my boyfriend is the kind of partner that will surprise me and bring back my favorite meal. He will play with my dog and have dinner with my parents on nights when I know he has a ton of work to do. His thoughtfulness makes it clear that he genuinely cares about me.

    All the people in my life make me feel loved, supported, and joyful. My circle is the source of my strength, as I am flooded with positive energy and kindness. I know that my family and friends will never let me fall too far or hard. So while the universe has blessed me in so many ways, what I love most about my life are the people I am fortunate enough to share it with.

    Love,

    Lauren

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    • I’m so glad you have such a strong support system. They’re no better feeling in the world than to have the ones you love to also support you and your passion. Thank you for sharing.

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    • You have such a wonderful support system. And the fact that you’re surrounded by people who care about you and aren’t biased and keep it real with you is amazing. Thank you for sharing

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  • Lauren Brill shared a letter in the Group logo of Chasing Your DreamsChasing Your Dreams group 1 years ago

    Walt Disney World is a truly magical place

    Dear Walt Disney,

    Like you, I am both a creative and an entrepreneur. Your legacy inspires me beyond measure.

    See, this weekend, I visited Walt Disney World, a collection of theme parks named in your honor and developed based on many of your ideas and creations. It’s the second time I have been there just this year and the sixth time in my life. Each time I go to Disney World, I leave amazed. The parks are enormous, and yet they are so detail-oriented. On average, 58 million people visit Disney World and its parks yearly. Each day, the average revenue for Disney World is $82 million. The parks at Disney World are unlike any other amusement park in the world. And the amount of joy you have brought to people’s lives through these parks and your films is never ending and not quantifiable.

    When I look up at the castle at Magic Kingdom or the ball at EPCOT, I can’t help but think about how this entire empire started with just a vision and a simple cartoon, and that cartoon is now an American icon known as Mickey Mouse.

    While I don’t know how to draw and have no ambition to go into the theme park business, my visions are bigger than anyone else can see. And my starting point is simple. It’s not a mouse like Mickey, but rather a letter – written from one human to another.

    Through letters, I want to inspire people, unite different cultures, and catalyze productive conversations on critical social issues that impact our society. My business is still small – in its infancy. But my vision is clear and so big.

    Mr. Disney, you give me so much hope and fire to keep marching forward.

    For me, Disney World is not just a place for rides, shows, and good food. And your legacy is so much more than the drawings you created. Both are reminders of what is possible with a simple concept, a big vision, and a determined spirit.

    Thank you.

    Sincerely,

    Lauren

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    • Mr. Disney started with a small idea but a big dream and like you and many others has inspired a long line of dreamers. This letter to him is exactly what his dream was. To inspire.

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    • I love this so much, and I totally agree with you. I’ve only gone once. My daughter took me for my 40th Bday, which she was also celebrating passing the bar for the first time, so it was a great celebration for both of us, and I loved it so much. It was an amazing time, to me, like a dream. I had never experienced such joy during that trip. It was…read more

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      • Awww thank you. I hope you get a chance to go back! You mentioned your daughter before, she sounds like a really sweet person and smart as well. <3 Lauren

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    • I love your perspective of Disney World. I believe we can create any reality we want with proper planning, and patience just like you and Walt Disney. The best part about it bringing joy, and helping others discover themselves in numerous ways!

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    • It’s clear that Mr. Disney is a very inspirational figure in your life. He started with a dream just like you and he brought that dream to life and inspired millions to chase their own dreams.

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  • Lauren Brill shared a letter in the Group logo of PoetryPoetry group 1 years ago

    Dear World...

    I remember when I first learned of misogyny, racism and pure hate
    I had thought long ago it all reached its expiration date

    Clearly, I was wrong
    As many are still dancing to an old song

    As a young girl, they told me playing sports is a microcosm of adult life
    But in the real world, the refs try to prevent me from winning at any
    role except mother and wife

    They do so by attempting to lower my ceiling
    While reducing my existence to what I do when I am lying or kneeling

    When it comes to civil rights, I may have never seen a noose
    But the concept of racial equality is definitely still a ruse

    I know I am not black and I can’t understand racism through what I
    hear on the news or read in a book
    But I am human and I know a young innocent boy should not be shot
    because of the way he looks

    In love, we still can’t all marry the person who makes our hearts feel
    cared for or protected
    Instead we must worry and live in fear that our connection won’t be
    accepted

    In careers, many of us don’t receive opportunity based on ability
    Instead, we are held back because of our complexion, sexuality or
    femininity

    The solution is in our own evolution

    We are fighting old battles in a modern form
    A new movement where we all stand for each other needs to be born

    Men must stand up against rape and be leaders in its elimination
    Women need to speak up when different races or sexual orientations
    receive any kind of discrimination

    Our voices would have so much more power if we sang as a choir
    Going against the establishment as separate acts just lead us to tire

    Whether you’re black, white, female or LGBT
    People need to stand for people if we are all going to be set free

    Our past should not still be our reality
    It’s time for injustice to be the latest fatality

    Our children deserve a world where hate doesn’t consistently rise
    above
    Instead, I want them to experience the best of life, by living in a place
    where they can feel hope and universal love

    Lauren

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    • A fine meaty poem here, Lauren! you write so well! some of my favorite lines:
      The solution is in our own evolution

      We are fighting old battles in a modern form
      A new movement where we all stand for each other needs to be born

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    • I’m speechless. This poem is exactly what I’ve been thinking but put into words that can be universally understood. You pain a beautiful picture with your words and perspective. Never stop writing your truth. Thank you for sharing.

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  • Lauren Brill shared a letter in the Group logo of To the people we loveTo the people we love group 1 years ago

    Dad, This is why this moment meant so much to me

    Dear Dad,

    I can’t remember the exact day or even the precise year that this memory took place. At the time, I was working for MSG Varsity, a high school sports network in the New York metropolitan area. I was probably about two years out of college and maybe 23 or 24 years old. That job was a breakthrough. It was my first steady on-air job. Before getting an offer to work for MSG, I must have been rejected by 100 stations. I was pursuing what many thought to be an impossible career as a TV sports reporter. So many naysayers told me I was wasting my time and my education. But not you, Dad. You told me never to give up on a dream. You told me you believed in me and tried to provide any resources possible to help me succeed.

    That’s why this moment, which I am about to share, meant so much to me.

    See on this day, I walked into work and everybody was buzzing about Emmy nominations. I was a young reporter in the number one market in the country, so my expectations were low. Then, just as I was about to start writing a script, one of my coworkers told me to check the Emmy nominations. They said they were almost sure they saw my name listed. I don’t remember if I read a hard copy or if I looked at the nominations on my computer or someone else’s computer, but I got a hold of the list, and sure enough, my name was printed twice. In my first year as a reporter, I received two Emmy nominations in the number one market in the country. Before saying anything to anyone, I went into the stairwell and started to cry as I called you to tell you the news.

    That’s the moment that is etched in my memory forever. That’s the moment I will never forget. I remember how I felt overwhelmed with emotion and how I could barely even get the words out to tell you. I remember how happy you were to hear the news and how you told me to stop crying.

    It wasn’t so much the recognition from the industry or that I got to go to the ceremony and wear a pretty dress that made that moment so special. Don’t get me wrong. All that was great too. But at that moment, I felt I had proved that your unwavering support and belief in me were worthwhile. That you didn’t waste your time or money investing in my dreams.

    A decade and change later, I have yet to win an Emmy, even though I was nominated five more times after that. But that moment in the stairwell means more to me than any trophy. That five-minute phone call celebrating with you and hearing the pride in your voice were and are the only prizes that ever mattered to me.

    I love you, Daddy. Thank you for always believing in me.

    Lauren

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    • I love that the first thing you did was call your dad. You knew he would be so proud of you. You’re one lucky lady to have a supportive father. Thank you for sharing. 🙂

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  • My Powers

    Believing in yourself is the first
    Step to building strength that doesn’t rest.

    Then, listening to others, not needing
    To participate, unjudgemental, hearing
    What others need, interject, harboring
    Your doubts and advice so as not harming.

    Speak my mind, state my faith,
    Being proud of my achievements whose breadth
    May seem unimportant to others, but their breath
    Is my motivation to stretch abilities in depth.

    Faith and belief are the core
    Of my power to never bore,
    As I know their roots moor
    My might within a mind who’s dire.

    My scars, those that society frowns
    Upon, are my badges of honor, survivals,
    Will, and mind over matters
    That seem trivial in light of my powers.

    ©️ Malak K C ©️

    Malak K C

    Voting is closed

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    • Malak, This is beautiful. You are right, believing in yourself is the basis of strength. You have so much power and that’s evident in your writing. Keep being strong. Keep writing! Thank you for sharing your talent with us. <3 Lauren

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      • I’m astounded by your reaction to my writing, and am humbled by your support and understanding. I’ll keep the flame of positivity on high in hopes that it’ll engulf the world with Its heat.

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    • Malak, having faith and belief are strong strengths to have especially today. When you have faith and belief you’re able to achieve goals that you didn’t think about achieving. You’re able to move on from any cuts that may hurt at first but turn into scars. Those marks are what you look back on and think. I made it through that battle. It’s tim…read more

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  • malakkc shared a letter in the Group logo of PoetryPoetry group 1 years, 1 months ago

    Forgiveness (Accrostic)

    Forge your will in steal,
    Outmaneuver your enemies, who feel,
    Replete in knowing they’re the heel.
    Give them your support when they fall,
    Inspire them to be better than before.
    View their progress and motivate before you bore,
    Inverting foe to friend, like before.
    Never lose hope for betterment
    Even when all is stacked against you,
    Simmer the anger, put logic to the forefront
    Survive, learn, educate, that hope is never gone.

    ©️ Malak Kalmoni Chehab ©️

    Malak Kalmoni Chehab

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    • aww this is so sweet and so powerful. It is always good for your soul and the soul of others to be able to put love into the world – even love towards the people who hurt you. Forgiveness is healing. Thank you for sharing. <3 Lauren

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    • Hi Malak!
      This site has some amazing poets omg!
      I want to hear your thoughts as well behind this poem, but I’ll share what I felt after reading it.
      “Outmaneuver your enemies” was a very strong line because when we usually hear someone say something like that it is not in a positive light. For example, you may have heard someone say, “Get them be…read more

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      • Dear Asia,
        I’m so glad you understood that my perspective is a positive one and not a hurtful one. This poem was inspired by a contest online, but my varied experiences in war, racism, colonialism, and demeaning speech have turned me into a believer of turn the other cheek, but by helping the other understand yours through conversation. Faith is…read more

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    • Malak, this is such a powerful poem. A lot of people come can’t forgive certain things that is why there is so much killing today because it is unforgiveness. If we actually forgive someone truly we can be able to let go and not harden our hearts every time we see that person walk by.

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    • I really loved the meaning of forgiveness it’s very deep and intimate to the reader they’re not alone. Grudges take a long time to heal so when I read this I felt I no longer had to focus on hate then love thank you very beautiful

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      • Hi, I’m so glad my writing had an impact in you, that’s positive. I believe that forgiveness is a need we need to strive towards, as it’s the only thing that can save our sanity.

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    • I love that this poem speaks on being kind to your enemies. Kindness and forgiveness are so important. This poem shows great strength and self control. Thank you for sharing.

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      • I’m so glad it resonates with you, as society seems to be degenerating and loss of forgiveness and hope are the victims. I hope there are more people like us out there who can band together.

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    • I love this, especially the statement, Inspire them to be better than before. Pray for the ones who persecute you, they need it more than you. As you said, never lose Hope for betterment. Be strong when others attack. Truly, their hearts more than likely, need to be mended possibly more than yours.

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      • Hi,
        As an educator and mother, I noticed that connections with children is a must for understanding and to be able to provide help where needed. Those who hate have missed out on it and need our support to overcome their troubles.

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  • Mom, This is why I admire you so much

    Dear Mom,

    Growing up, I didn’t always appreciate you as I do now. I didn’t fully understand you as a child because our dreams were so different. At ten years old, I was outspoken and already very career driven. You always liked working and wanted to do well, but you never had a burning desire for a promotion or more responsibilities. For a long time, I thought you were less ambitious than me, but as the years passed, I learned that that’s not exactly correct.

    Mom, you are the backbone of our family. When a crisis hits, you are the one we all turn to for comfort, support, and wisdom. You have this incredible ability to calm us all down while providing logical advice. When I got rejected by my crush in elementary school, you were the one who sat in my bed and told me I was beautiful. When I decided to go to private school 40 minutes from our house and then play for a travel soccer team 40 minutes away in the opposite direction, you (and dad) spent hours in the car, driving me back and forth. When I was worried about getting into college, you were the one who told me you were proud of me regardless of which school accepted me. When I opened up about my assault, you were the one who told me my response was normal and OK. When my ex-boyfriend passed away, you were the one who held my hand at the funeral. And when I started my business, you spent days on end sending out emails for me.

    Mom, I have come to realize that you were and are very ambitious. You wanted, more than anything, to foster a loving family and you did whatever it took to make that happen. As a family, we have endured difficult situations together, and you have handled each with strength, grace, selflessness, and love. Every day, you have made our family a priority. To this day, you help us persevere through the most challenging moments of our lives, while also supporting us as we chase our wildest dreams.

    Mom, you may not have wanted to be a boss in a boardroom, but you were/are one heck of a CEO in our household.

    I am proud to be your daughter, as I admire and love you more than you’ll ever know.

    With love,

    Lauren

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    • @shelleybrill I wrote this for you. I love you so much and I hope you know how much I appreciate you (even though you get on my nerves sometimes). Love you!

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    • This brought tears to my eyes. As a mother myself I often feel like I should be doing more but after reading this I understand that I am doing more than I think I am. Your mother sounds like a fantastic strong and beautiful woman. And if I’m not mistaken by some of the stories I’ve read written by her, she is in fact a strong beautiful woman. Tha…read more

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    • That’s a real mom. I love your story and all your sentiments of your mom, they’re beautiful. Reminds me some of my mom, only difference is, my mom, nor my father never had enough education, so all they knew was to work hard to take care of our family. Not only that, I grew up in a very large family and we had it kind of hard, but we felt love…read more

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  • Intentions

    Upon reflection on a year gone by,
    I notice that life is short and needs to fly.

    As time dissipates in the fog of winter
    Storms that flog your optimism into a pauper,

    I lie back and wonder …
    How do I make the following year better?

    My goals are set for my self-improvement,
    Where I wish to feel no bereavement.

    Goals are so arbitrary, that, at times
    They pull you down into hades.

    As I set my goals: reducing my intrusive
    Conversation and being more conservative

    In my opinions, but only with certain
    Peoples, who lack perception.

    Another goal is too write more,
    Submit more, and succeed more.

    I believe the latter more feasible,
    As the first requires me to be more biddable

    I hope to achieve a certain censorship
    As not to reach hardship.

    ©️ Malak kalmoni chehab ©️

    Malak

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    • Malak, what I love about your writing is that your heart always shines through. Life does fly by… keep being you. I hope you keep writing like you said you wanted to and keep succeeding. However, please know that you are already a huge success. Thank you for sharing this poem and being a part of our family. <3 Lauren

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      • Lauren, I humble me with your comments. I love the fact that you understand my perspectives and that my writing appeals to you. Everything I write comes from within as well as a from my perception of our society.

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    • I feel as though gh sometimes our goals can bring us down they can also bring us up at times. You said that you wanted to write more. I feel like that will help more with your goals just like how you are writing about your goals now. Your writing can always be an ongoing reminder of what you have on track of what you need to do.

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      • I totally agree with you, which is why your advice will be taken to heart. There are times though when you feel too empty to write. This creates a heaviness that can block me from expressing my feelings.

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  • malakkc shared a letter in the Group logo of PoetryPoetry group 1 years, 1 months ago

    Ideal Woman

    Mother, daughter, sister, wife, friend,
    All are one and the same in muslim women.
    We hear what we need,
    We mishear what we deem reprehensible!

    We learn early the need for compromise, understanding,
    And flexibility which are requirements of survival
    In a world where the ‘I’ is more important than fighting
    For togetherness, unity, and equality. Rather,
    It’s replaced by the needs of the individual!

    They surpass and prevail over the duties of the whole,
    Whether that be the couple, nuclear and extended
    Family which help fortify and solidify the need,
    More, the essential requirements of values, ethics, and religiously
    Equitable interactions that eliminate racism and all that’s dicrimatory.

    We have to seem ‘perfect’ in both appearance and morality.
    We have to be learned, open minded, not fearfully
    Aware that we can be imperfect, human, and loving.
    Not being the epitome of everything only highlights your humanity.

    ©️Malak kalmoni chehab ©️

    Malak Kalmoni Chehab

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    • This is such a great letter, Malak. I can relate to your message because I am a follower of Yahweh and don’t put myself into any denomination. But I believe that we all should be able to care for one another and not just focus on ourselves. We should live a life where we would want to be treated and not treat others poorly. But even when people…read more

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      • Exactly. We women need to support one another in order to leave our mark within others, whether in our children, society, or even only in writing. It’s still a wonder to me how some of us continue to believe that what we do as women lacks importance and relevance.

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    • Togetherness is what propels family forward in all aspects of life. I feel that we forget that in order to truly succeed we need inspiration and most of the time that inspiration is founded and embedded in our family. Thank you so much for sharing.

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  • Dear Self

    Dear Self,

    As I look back into my past actions, I realize that there were things that I should have changed. It’s interesting how so many authors, politicians, philosophers have written about ‘the past’ in relation to our present selves, but we continue to belabor the point. McCarthy states in All the Pretty Horses, that “Scars have the strange power to remind us that our past is real.” Without this reminder, we won’t learn the lessons that the past has taught us, but rather repeat them mindlessly as if we don’t know any better. As I recall my worst mistake, I realize today, that it could have been circumvented by simply communicating clearly. However, if you’re like me, and the problem is within the family, you omit speaking in order to be respectful and not hurt the feelings of those you love.
    I’ve also learned, that when you speak your mind and express yourself concisely, you get the result you need: understanding. Without talking, how can others know how you’re feeling, or even how you’re affected by a particular event? Added to that, by discussing the problem, calmly, you get to see the different perspectives that each individual is coming from, rather than assuming you already know. I’ve learned that assuming someone’s motives for an action may be wrong, and that is what leads to greater misunderstandings and conflict.
    I think that Katherine Anne Porter says it best, as she expresses it best in saying: “The past is never where you think you left it.” By that she means that with the information, maturity you had at the time, you can grasp a part of the events that occurred. However, in retrospect, having changed, become wiser through various experiences, makes your perspective of the event change with time. Here I don’t mean the actions that took place, but rather the reactions and assumptions that you had made.
    I’ll sum up with my poetic version of this:

    Communication is a tool
    You use to oppress the pool
    Of depression, that spawns from regret
    Over actions taken in past event.

    Couch your speech,
    Make it into a delicate flower to preach
    Behaviors that promote, compassion,
    Understanding, love, and devotion.

    Best,
    Your wiser self

    ©️ Malak kalmoni chehab ©️

    Malak Kalmoni Chehab

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    • Communication is very very important in all aspects. Especially when it comes to self respect. To communicate your feelings is the first step to having a respectful relationship with yourself. Thank you for sharing

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  • To Those Who Doubt Themselves,

    To Those Who Doubt Themselves,

    Most people never discover how far their talents can take them.

    Instead, it is so easy to let doubt hold you back. It’s so easy to ponder if you are smart enough, good enough, or have the stamina to climb the mountain you see ahead. And, of course, it doesn’t make it any less daunting when you have naysayers – people who say you can’t do it. But what I want you to know and what my journey thus far has taught me is that you’re in control of your destiny.

    There are so many instances in life where I was scared to pursue a challenge. When I got accepted to an Ivy League school, I didn’t think I was smart enough to attend. When I decided to start a business, I didn’t know if I had the experience or resources to pull it off effectively. And when recently, I decided to start learning how to code websites, I honestly didn’t know if my brain could absorb a computer language.

    As I questioned my abilities in those circumstances, other people also doubted me. Here are just a few comments I heard from people:

    “You’re not as smart as the other kids who go to Columbia. You won’t do well there.”

    “Do you know how many people fail at starting a business? You’re wasting your time.”

    “How are you going to learn to code on your own? There are so many levels to it. You’ll never be able to be proficient in it.”

    Despite my doubts, and the doubts of others, I pursued each challenge anyway.

    I repeatedly told myself, almost like a religious mantra, “If someone else can do this, I can do it too. If someone else can do this, I can do it too.”

    I made the dean’s list every semester during my last two years at Columbia(I think). My very first post, when I started my business, went viral. And with computer code, I found a cheap course online, and I am enjoying learning to code. It’s actually coming to me pretty easily so far.

    So, don’t listen to any of your doubters. They are projecting their fears onto you. Always have confidence in yourself because right now, you have no idea what you can accomplish in your life. But I promise you, if you take a chance, if you have a little faith in yourself, and never give up, you just might be one of the lucky ones to find out.

    With Love,

    Someone just like you

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    • You’re are so right, If someone else can do it, so can you. Your brain ticks just as much. You can do anything in life you chooses. Focus on what exactly you want to do, then work at it and it will happen, as long as you have determination. And you’re right, never listen to Naysayers (doubters) they will stop you dead in your tracks. These are…read more

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    • I doubt myself constantly to the point where I contemplate whether I should do it or not. I always catch myself doing this but I’m starting to break that habit and make a change.

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  • malakkc shared a letter in the Group logo of PoetryPoetry group 1 years, 2 months ago

    Open Mindedness

    The combat to stear away from ingrained
    Stereotypes built on empowering one group over
    Others has been historically documented
    Over and over again, without respite from war,
    Revolution, rebellion, and power of religion.

    Gaslighting’s cruelty needs to end,
    People need to accept that they lend
    One another strength, humanity, and empathy
    That encompasses all within its circly,
    Eviscerating all negativity of cruelty.

    Just as gaslight’s days have disappeared,
    So should we annex racism, superiority,
    Cruelty, and hate from our vocabulary
    To surpass our own need of demeaning Others to feel lightly about our savagery.

    Eventually, the subjugated becomes the tyrant
    In a bid to brush off the feel of enslavement.
    The mortal heart can only take such demeaning
    Speech for so long, then pride and the need
    To assert one’s existence and value
    Will, inevitably, lead to violence that bleed
    Inflammatory speech, writing, cartoons,
    Or any type of social media that accepts
    Such verbal vulgarity.

    People who feel a connection to their humanity,
    I implore you to set aside learned cruelty,
    Open your minds to others, brothers sisters,
    In compassion and empathy reigning freely.
    ©️ Malak kalmoni chehab ©️
    From my poetry book, Perfectly Flawed

    Malak Kalmoni Chehab

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    • This is so deep and so real. All in the world should be rooted in love. There is no need for hate, stereotypes, hierarchy, or violence. The foundation of life and society should always be love. Thank you for sharing @malakkc!

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  • malakkc shared a letter in the Group logo of PoetryPoetry group 1 years, 2 months ago

    Flighty Heart

    Fragile paper hearts
    Easy to tear,
    but cuts
    Like a bear.

    Its unique shape
    Lends to despair,
    When it broke
    By your hand and air.

    Its unique shape
    Rises into fullness,
    Then dips in face
    Of falsehood that pierce.

    Look into its shape
    That seems divided
    Into yay and nay, a cape
    Of vascillation that cried.

    Its tear wails
    Till eye sight is blind
    With too many choices
    And decisions that bind.

    Oh ye who have
    A paper heart,
    Let its love
    Blind you and don’t cut.

    Malak Kalmoni Chehab

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    • Malak, Embrace the vulnerability of your paper heart, for its unique shape holds both joy and pain. Let love guide you and choose wisely, for decisions can bind. Embrace the beauty of love and let it blind you to the cuts.

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  • Lauren Brill shared a letter in the Group logo of Magical MomentsMagical Moments group 1 years, 2 months ago

    My love letter to sports

    Dear Sports,

    Sometimes love comes into our lives early and easily. That’s the case with you. I remember meeting you around age four or five, but it could have been even younger. I lived on a cul-de-sac, and all the kids on our street would regularly play kickball in the circle. We’d play for hours, sometimes mixing in tag or hide and seek. Without much effort, I could always keep up with the older kids. And every time I tried a new sport, it took me no time to figure it out. But it wasn’t until my parents signed me up for organized soccer with kids my age that I realized I was athletic. I was faster than everyone else. And scoring goals was easy. Immediately, I was hooked. I loved competition. And quite frankly, I loved winning.

    While I played many sports throughout my childhood, soccer became my primary sport. I played on club, school, and select teams. Soccer allowed me to see the world, as I was chosen to play on a team that competed as far as Italy when I was 15 years old. Besides competition, sports introduced me to my best friends – many of whom I am still close with now.

    I am forever grateful that you, sports, came into my life.

    As an adult, I no longer play on competitive sports teams. And I probably don’t work out as much as I should. But you are still an essential part of my life. You shaped me into the person I am today. You, sports, taught me how to push through adversity. You showed me the power of a good and consistent work ethic. Through you, I developed tremendous confidence and mental toughness, which serves me well every single day of my life. And when I have a long week or am frustrated or scared, I can still turn to you for peace. I’ll rollerblade along the water for miles or lift at the gym.

    While many loves in our life come and go, there are some rare ones that not only come early and easily but also last a lifetime.

    I love you always.

    Your old friend,

    Lauren

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    • Wow, that’s wonderful. A friend to the end is the most wonderful thing ever and is very rare. Yes, we meet people when we’re much younger and may know them for a year or more, but a lot of time, it doesn’t last a life time. So, when you find that, it’s rare, but the greatest thing ever. It’s that one person you know will always be there for you…read more

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