As you grow and mature in life, you learn that there are supporters and spectators around you. Some are there to uplift and stand with you; others simply observe. Knowing the difference, and understanding the role each plays, matters.

My TEA is a core pillar of my village, he shows up for me in ways that speak louder than words. As I prepared for my book launch at the beginning of December, I wrestled with deep frustration over not having books in hand despite ordering from three different platforms weeks in advance. On the day of the event, nothing had arrived. Then, an email came, one shipment was “out for delivery” via UPS. I mentioned it to him, and he simply said, “Okay,” and walked away singing Yahweh under his breath.

A little while later, I heard him talking from a distance, and as he approached, he told me he would never let me walk into an event without books. While I was in my head, whispering prayers, he was out driving around until he found the UPS truck, and he secured those books. Joy and warmth filled my heart when I saw the box in his hands.  I shouted, “HUSBAND!!! Oh, how I adore you. Come through for your girl!” as I showered him with kisses.  

His determination to see me happy, his commitment to supporting me in every way he could, and his embodiment of the man God designed for me… I’m supported.

Fast forward to Christmas morning. I’m opening gifts with T, and he’s watching me intently as I open a small pink box, one that would soon bring me to tears. As I pull the charm from the little pouch, all I could say was, ‘Babe…’ my eyes already welling up. ‘Oh my God. Babe, how thoughtful.’

It was a book charm.

The time, intention, and thoughtfulness behind that gift made my heart skip a beat. It was layered, personal, and deeply meaningful. A book charm to represent my newly released book, and more importantly, what he believed to be the heart of its message: through it all, Love You More. That man still gives me butterflies.

In the next book, we’ll talk about how important it is to choose wisely. Just because someone tries to pick you doesn’t mean you have to accept the pick. You have to know, for yourself, that the person is God-sent.

And once again… I am supported, y’all.

Chapter 11 of The Grief No One Talks About, “Where Is Your Village?” challenges you to examine your circle: are you surrounded by people or supported by them?

Support isn’t passive; it’s love in action. Surrounded is a presence.

So, the big question is, are you surrounded or are you supported?

To fully understand the concept, you’d need to get your copy of The Grief No One Talks About. The Grief No One Talks About: When Relationships End: by LaTronda Latrice, Paperback | Barnes & Noble®