humanity
The real lives of businessmen, professionals, the everyday man, stay at home parent, healthy lifestyle influencers, and general feel good human stories.
"There Are No Mistakes in Art, My Life Story is Art"
Art can not be contained and/or reduced to rules and regulations. Beyonce has brought this idea to life with her Cowboy Carter album release. Her journey into the self by way of the Country music genre has sparked controversy across the nation. She courageously declared her rightful place in this artform with an open letter saying, “this ain't a country album, it's a Beyonce album.” She is no stranger to controversy and even attributes the buzz to the fact that she is that H.B.I.C. Her decision to rise above the music genre barriers is so inspiring. There is a longtime, deep-seated belief that there is no place for Black folks in Country music. That is a bold-faced lie. Music originated with us, we have the experiences, the scars on our hearts and the songs in our souls to invent new instruments and genres alike. Most musical genres root back to the African diaspora. Country music is no different.
By Ariel Celeste2 years ago in Journal
"My Own Truth is The Greatest Truth I Will Ever Know"
When people give you an out, take it. A mantra that I live by each day in both micro and macro moments. We live in a society where we are thrown to the mercy of the court of public opinion. These times are unlike any other where gross misunderstandings and propaganda can spread like wildfire among the masses. It’s your word against the world’s. Seldomly are the assumptions and accusations aligned with facts. We live in a world buzzing with alternative facts and there’s not much we can do about it. Ain’t that a trip? Existing in flight or flight mode just to uphold a pristine image can be a losing battle. So, why bother?
By Ariel Celeste2 years ago in Journal
I Am Free, My Life Will Soon Reflect It
“Dearly beloved… we are gathered here today to get through this thing called life. Electric word- life… that means forever and that’s a mighty long time…but I’m here to tell you…there’s something else. The afterworld. A world where there is never-ending happiness, where you can always see the sun--day or night. So, when you call up that shrink in Beverly Hills-- you know the one, Doctor “Everything Gone Be Alright”? Instead of asking him how much of your time is left-- babe, ask him how much of your mind is left. Because in this life, things are much harder than the afterworld. In this life…you’re on your own.” -Prince (Let’s Go Crazy, 1984)
By Ariel Celeste2 years ago in Journal
“The Beauty That Surrounds Me Reflects The Beauty Inside Me.”
Being home is such an immersive experience for me. I am immersed in admiration for how the infinite time loop works. Someone said during my visit that growing up in my neighborhood was “the best of times and the worst of times.” I tend to agree. Based on the unanimous affirmative head nods in the crowd, that sentiment held true for everybody-- across generations. Grounding in my mother’s backyard and hanging out under the tree at my father’s house gives me a deep appreciation for my humble beginnings. What’s true today was true back in “the good ole days.” Community sticks together. Every person in my neighborhood who was part of the “old days” is still perfectly preserved in spirit. Even though the last few visits home have been to lay people to rest.
By Ariel Celeste2 years ago in Journal
"Everything Shows Up for Me on Time"
The aftermath of the Grammys has set an amazing tone for Black History Month 2024. The annual run-of-the-mill White Academy snubs don’t have us nearly as fixated as the collective of iconic Black Power moments. We saw Blue Ivy Carter dressed in all white, clearly feeling godly. We saw CoCo Jones, Victoria Monet, SZA and so many others shine in their much deserved glory. We saw just how fiercely Beyonce’s soul and poker face refused to be broken. We also witnessed Queen Bey’s unmatched fashion genius as she served custom Louis Vuitton blingy cowgirl realness. The rodeo is happening here in Houston in just a few short weeks, and Mrs. Carter set the perfect fashion benchmark. These magnificent moments are circulating social media on loop and I honestly find it so satisfying.
By Ariel Celeste2 years ago in Journal
“I Will Always See the Truth and Find The Exit In Due Time.”
Hello, Star Players! Welcome to our monthly newsletter featuring an enlightenment note from my past self. These lyrical passages are inspired by cards from the CCC Tiny Book of Affirmations. We would love to feature your journal responses to our affirmations as well! Please email your submissions to [email protected] for a chance to be featured on our site!
By Ariel Celeste2 years ago in Journal
"It's An Honor To Serve Myself"
Acceptance speeches like Niecy Nash at the Emmys shine light on the power of affirmations. We should speak life and gratitude over ourselves on a daily basis. We are thankful that she used the precious seconds on stage to wow the world with a thank you to none other than herself. This is an unorthodox move during acceptance speeches.
By Ariel Celeste2 years ago in Journal
"Everything is Happening in its Own Divine Order"
I have not written in this journal in 3 years. The last time I graced these pages, I didn’t even live in this home. I was hoping, wishing, praying and making investments on being an energy match to be in alignment with deserving this home. Now, this home, all its incumbents and everyone who has passed through it are forever changed. I am eternally grateful for the growth between January 2021 and January 2024. I sat down and had no idea what I’d write about tonight, but I knew I wanted to write. Three years ago, I was sledding in Brooklyn for the first time ever on a $10 Family Dollar air mattress. This year, I set my sights on a ski trip in Colorado for the first time. Since I last connected to these pages, so much has changed, yet so much remains the same.
By Ariel Celeste2 years ago in Journal
“I am and affirm luxury.”
“I don’t bother nobody, as long as nobody don’t bother me.” My grandmother must have said these words to me three or four times during my visit home this weekend. She means them. I know she does because I mean them when I parrot the phrase to others. She and I are a lot alike. It’s only destiny that we would be. I understand that the reason I am like I am is because she is like she is.
By Ariel Celeste2 years ago in Journal
"I am now who I've always been."
This post is dedicated to anyone who has had to piece together their ancestry. I’ve been doing investigative journalism on my own family history since I could read. Ironically, I learned how to read at a freakishly early age. So, it’s safe to say my investigation has been on-going since the early 90’s. The links in my maternal family chain are ones that came shattered like broken glass. Ones that I’ve had to dig up and unearth like a worker in a diamond mine.
By Ariel Celeste2 years ago in Journal
Why Minimalism in Branding Matters More Than Ever
Why Minimalism in Branding Matters More Than Ever The growth of social media has increased consumer awareness regarding product ingredients and proper usage, resulting in more informed and selective shoppers. Today's consumers prioritize transparency and authenticity in both product content and brand values. A minimalist approach to branding that emphasizes visibility and clarity has resulted from this shift.
By Hridya Sharma2 years ago in Journal
