Embrace Vol. 5

Welcome to"EMBRACE" Your Weekly Inspiration. Say Hello, to your weekly dose of empowerment and inspiration. I'm here to remind you that your authenticity is your superpower. It takes courage to stand firm in your truth in a world that tries to mold us into something we're not. And trust me, there's nothing more impressive than a person who knows who they are and isn't afraid to show it.

For me, code-switching has been a lifelong companion. It's the practice of adjusting my self-expression to navigate different cultural contexts; from the boardroom to the beauty salon to the family barbecue. While code-switching is a reality for many marginalized folks, it carries unique challenges and choices for each of us.

I remember the internal tug-of-war I used to feel at family gatherings, torn between my desire to be accepted and my longing to be fully seen. I'd find myself slipping into a different persona that felt more palatable and less disruptive to the family norm. But over time, I realized that the price of belonging doesn't have to be the sacrifice of authenticity.

The journey to showing up as our authentic selves in family spaces is a deeply personal one, shaped by our various identities, experiences, and cultural backgrounds. For some of us, it might mean speaking our native tongue without shame. For others, it might mean bringing our partners home for the first time. For all of us, it's a brave act of vulnerability and self-love.

So how do we navigate the complexities of family gatherings while staying true to ourselves? Here are some thoughts:

1. Know that you are enough, exactly as you are. Your worth is not defined by how well you fit into someone else's expectations.

2. Set boundaries from a place of love. It's okay to communicate what you need to feel safe and respected, even if it feels uncomfortable at first.

3. Find points of connection. Look for the shared values, experiences, and stories that unite you with your family members, even amidst your differences.

4. Seek out your support system. Lean on the family members, friends, or chosen family who affirm your authentic self and remind you of your inherent worthiness.

5. Approach others with empathy. Remember that your family members are on their own journeys of growth and understanding. Meet them where they are with compassion, while still honoring your own truth.

Authenticity is a practice, not a perfect destination. It takes courage to unlearn the patterns of self-silencing and step into our full truth, especially in the context of family. But when we show up authentically, we create space for genuine connection and belonging - not just for ourselves, but for everyone around us.

So to all my readers, whether you're navigating race, culture, sexuality, gender identity, disability, or any other aspect of your beautiful, multifaceted self; know that your authenticity is a gift. By embodying your truth with equal parts compassion and conviction, you invite others to do the same. And that is how we build a world where every voice is valued, and every story is celebrated.

With power and purpose,

Nadiyah Gause
Founder & Editor-in-Chief, Embrace, My Father's Daughter Speaking