Oftentimes, in our world, comparison often clouds appreciation. I am fortunate to have a family that not only understand my unique creative abilities but actively encourages them. My parents and siblings inspire me everyday to become a better version of myself and their support has been crucial in helping me navigate some of the most turbulent times in my life.
I have always been the creative person in my family and that sets me apart from other members of the family. This difference however has never been the source of envy or competition, my family recognizes and values my creativity. They have shown their appreciation in countless ways. Their belief in me has been a constant source of inspiration especially in the toughest phases of my life.
A few years ago I experienced series of unfortunate experiences amongst my friends and during my NYSC I had another awful experience that left me traumatized. The effect spiralled into this year. I was emotionally drained and my creativity stifled. I lost interest in almost everything that once brought me joy and my creative spark dimmed significantly.
One of my brothers was the first to step into the situation. He would call me regularly and our conversations would often last for an hour or more. During this conversation he would remind me of who I used to be - the creative and vibrant person full of ideas and potential. He would encourage me to get out of my emotional rut and hold on to what is ahead. He would say maybe your fashion business is what God will use to touch the word through you His words were filled with love and concern and he never gave up on me even if he had to repeat himself countless times.
My younger brother on his part found another way to inspire me. He would share his own achievement with me, not out of pride but to remind me of my own capabilities. You are more brilliant than I am and you can do better than I'm doing he would say as a way of encouraging me. His wins were not just his own; they were meant to spur me on and to remind me that I also have the potential to achieve great things.
As I continued to struggle with almost everything, our eldest - my sister decided that I needed a change of environment. She suggested that I go back home to our parents to reset and recharge. She was right, I needed a break from everything and I'm grateful that I wasn't tied down by marriage or other commitments that time. Infact I got away from some commitments at the time. My mental health became a priority. Following my sister's advise, I left my work and business behind and headed home.
Being at home was a healing experience. There, being well fed was non-negotiable and I found peace in the simplicity of my surroundings. All I did was sleep, eat and occasionally help my parents with chores. They were joyous to have me around and my parents ensured that I ate well till I regained my normal stature. Their joy in my presence was a balm to my weary soul.
During my stay, my baby brother came home briefly and made a decision to help me in a tangible way. That was when he introduced me to Hive and ensured that he connected me to a guide. Although he didn't stay for days, his short visit gave me a platform to express my creativity and he made it a duty to check up on my progress regularly.
When I finally left home, I did so feeling refreshed and re-energized. I came back to my life with a renewed sense of purpose and my creative ability flourished again.
In my fashion business, the dresses I make receive more appraisal than they did during the time I was weighed down by depression.
My brothers have since continued to support me trusting me with sewing their clothes and paying like a regular customer would. They were my motivation for venturing into male clothing in the first place.
I'm more refreshed and now pay attention to details I've neglected.
I'm incredibly grateful for my parents and siblings. Their unwavering support, their belief in me and willingness to step in when I needed them most made the difference. I'm most times treated like the last born which I'm not 🧐🧐. I often wonder what would have happened to me if they had chosen to criticize or distance themselves from me during my darkest days. I am eternally grateful.
When people ask me why I spent over two months at home abandoning my business and all. I simply tell them, I went for therapy** and it's true - the time I spent with my parents was therapeutic in every sense of the word. I'm glad I listened to my sister to take a break. It was a decision that ultimately led to my healing and I'm now back to being the creative and vibrant person I used to be.
####All pictures are mine
