1. No matter how much you talk, some people are hellbent on not listening. I didn’t realise how deeply ingrained some people have their views about you but it’s a real ass thing! Be careful what you share about yourself. Marga dawg can always tun round bite you (aka… friends can become enemies)

2. If you want something, you really have to go out and get it. When you’re laden with Imposter Syndrome, you just have to soldier through that shit and fake it til you make it. And once you “nake it” start believing that you deserve it… because you do. One thing my kids taught was GO FOR IT! The way they move smooth is amazing… I have a lot to learn from my young padawans!

3. I don’t have the time for the bullshit anymore. Once upon a time, I would give a person chance after chance. Now, my ability to give a toss (and additional chances) are limited. For a former people-pleaser, this is a huge step that I intend to keep in 2024.

4. My family are the most important thing to me, but even they will move on eventually. I’m writing this in real time and my two ratbags are darn saaf (down south) with their Sudanese family. It’s my first New Year away from them… and I can’t lie, I feel a type of way. However, it’s a lesson that life moves on and I’ve got to get used to it.

5. I want everybody to win. I really do. Capitalism is a divisive scourge and there’s a whole world out there that many of us can’t access but get on out there. I want you to win!!

6. These wars are literally the games of the big boys. We, the little people, are collateral damage. I can’t tell you the impact that the conflicts in Sudan, Congo and of course, Palestine has had on me. To see the bodies of dead babies, innocent women and men in Gaza has drawn heavy on my spirit. What hurts me with ALL of these conglucts is the deep-rooted menace of power at any cost. Ordinary people do not win in these Big Boy wars. Peace is also a doing word.

7. The state of the world is a huge source of anxiety for me. Following on from my last point, the energy drain has been immense. I have never felt as powerful as I have done when I see the images and reports coming from Palestine. I’ve wanted to elaborate more on these issues but my children are impacted by Sudan and Palestine and I’ve had to slow my roll on t’internet… but I’m happy that there are voices of dissent from all corners including those Jewish, LGBTQ+, Black, dusabled voices that all call for an end to war and a #FreePalestine.

8. I’m happy to be alive. I hit my milestone age of 50 and I’m honestly happy to have made it this far. Aging is a blessing and one I’m not taking for granted. It’s a gift. Enjoy it.

9. I think I’m really happy with who I am. Following on from that, I think I’m finally happy in who I am. I had a lot to figure out. A lot to let go off. I know I don’t fit the mould. My kids don’t fit but we were never meant to fit. I also think a lot of people feel this way and I’m here to tell you… it’s ok!

10. I’m in a different phase of my life and it’s all strange to me. Based on all of the above, I’m hoping you understand that I’m in a new place. The funny thing is that I’m not sure what to do about it. It’s not just my age but where I’m at. Being a woman of a certain age, it’s not missed on me where the world positions you. Add to that being a black woman and the depth of misogynoir online and off takes on astronomically cliché proportions. Saying that, I’m well-versed with the arguments but as I’ve said above, I’ve little time for the bullshit because I’m happy with who I am…

Whatever 2023 taught you, learn from it to proprl you into 2024 with gusto, verve, moxie but also love, positivity and good vibes!

Big hugs, Tricia xx ❤️💛💚