“A sweet friendship refreshes the soul.”  — Proverbs 27:9

One of my favorite questions to ask myself is, “What has been the best day of your life?” I think so often we bask in negativity and let the positive moments breeze through us. Whenever I find myself in an amazing situation, I try so hard to feel it, breathe it and enjoy it. Doing so has allowed me to experience terrific memories deeper. I had a terrific memory just last week as I spent my Spring Break with my best friends from undergrad. This trip with my guys was one I was planning for months. It was my plan to fly to Atlanta, road trip to a city I had never been to and create a magical memory. I began planning this trip in January and had been counting down the days to Spring Break since. After months of anticipation on March 7th, I boarded a direct flight to Atlanta, ecstatic to create what I knew would be as Nicki Minaj says a “Moment for Life”. Yesterday, when I arrived back in Boston late Sunday night, I rode home convinced that my Spring Break 2018 week was the best week of my life.

I Went to Morehouse

The week started with me visiting Morehouse. I went from the airport, luggage and all, straight to the cafeteria. This was my first time being at Morehouse since announcing that my second book was out. I was interested to see if anyone on campus was talking about it. To my pleasant surprise, when I arrived on campus I was bombarded with so much love. From the moment I stepped onto campus students, faculty and staff greeted me with big smiles and warm hugs. I don’t think I’ve ever hugged so many men in my life since last Wednesday at Morehouse. I saw old friends, had good conversations and most importantly, I got to eat some Fried Chicken Wednesday. (My Favorite!) So many students were telling me congrats on the new book and the support felt really nice. 

I Worked On My Confidence

The next day Thursday, I was invited by one of my professors to speak to his classes about my recent success and the new book. This was a challenge for me because truth be told, I’m actually kind of insecure about my writing. It is easy to brag on social media, post blogs on Twitter, but to talk about my blog and book in person is a real struggle. My writing is very candid and I’m also young, so there are moments when I play it down. I dealt with this a lot with my last book. I can count on one hand how many times I said the full title of my last book out loud. With this new book, it’s my goal to change that thinking and be very proud to share my writing in person just as much as I do online.

In these classes, I spoke with confidence, was proud of myself and didn’t get nervous to share that I had a new book out. Leaving those classes I felt good knowing that I was owning my work in person and becoming more confident.

I Went To Miami

Once I was done seeing everyone at Morehouse, it was time to head to Miami where I would spend the remainder of my break.  It was a strategic choice to drive to Miami from Atlanta rather than we all fly. We felt that this way, my friends and I could really talk, catch up and bond. The road trip from Atlanta to Miami was a blast. I have never laughed so much, rapped so many lyrics and had conversations like the moments while we drove down to Miami. Texting and talking on the phone is one thing, but being in the presence of friends and family is unparalleled.

When we all arrived in Miami, it was time for the shenanigans to begin. Miami is such a beautiful city with a lot to offer. It was my first time there but I will definitely be back. During my time in the city, I went to the beach, had great food and of course, went to the club. It’s crazy because I feel like we did a lot in Miami but also did nothing. This trip had a simplistic bliss to it that made it extra special.

I think what made this trip so fantastic was that it wasn’t anything too grand. It was just me, with my friends in a different city looking to have a good time. Being in Boston, away from the love and support of Morehouse made it so much more meaningful to experience it this past week.

Your Takeaway

My message I want to express to everyone is that, if you are in a space shared with the ones you love, don’t take it for granted. When I was at Morehouse, I was so ready to get out and move on.  I was bored of undergrad life and forgot what a blessing it was to be in such a loving and strong community. This Spring Break trip really taught me the benefits of being around people you love and having a good time. We all are busy with the “busyness of life” but it is so important to make time for community. It’s good to spend time with good friends and just be. I encourage you to get around your family and friends, put your cell phone away and enjoy each other. Ain’t nothing like family and friends.

I’m grateful for this past week that was filled with camaraderie, support, and friendship. I’ll always be grateful for the community I have in Atlanta and the best friends that a brotha could ask for. I can say with confidence that being in Atlanta and Miami surrounded by love gave me the well-needed recharge to finish this semester strong.