i am because you are.

on honoring the ancestors.

the word ubuntu translates to mean "i am because we are" and also "i am because you are."

when i first heard the word, before knowing its meaning, i could feel the power of it. i knew, deeply and instinctively that it would find it's place in my life and it has.

when i learned its meaning, i felt even more connected to it. holding it in a mental shoebox of treasured memories. not knowing how much i would come to lean on and learn to stand in its power.

over the last 5 years, several of my family members have transitioned from this realm, bringing ubuntu and its meaning to the forefront of my mind time and time again.

with each transition, i became more and more aware of the complexity of the aftermath that comes from the death of a loved one for those that survive them.

it’s hard to put into words. even now. i’ve spent countless hours, trying to find the right words and to be completely honest, it’s still a challenge.

but i’m making an effort to find the words because today marks the one year anniversary of my grandfather’s transition. since his passing grief and its many stages have come in waves. in moments talking about him with family and even in the quiet ones that no one else has any idea about.

and even though i very much didn’t want to get out of bed or do anything today, i’m deciding to do what i know i can do and that is to honor him…despite how i’m feeling.

today, i’m consciously choosing to honor him. i’m choosing to remember him, by calling out his name. by share his legacy. by sharing his stories and my memories of him.

today and for the rest of my life, i will allow my life to be a reflection of the many lessons he taught me. and to use those lessons to build an even stronger foundation for the next generation.

today, i honor you papa. i know that you know. and that we are connected. for forevers.

i’m longing to see you and hear your golden voice.

until we meet again, i love you, with all of me.

- flyy aka man-oona

my favorite pics of us.

throwback to our summers in jamaica.

jamaican food from ackee bamboo.

with some of your favorites, ital style.

how i will always remember you:

laughing and telling a joke.