!NO SPOILERS!

My mom never liked rap and my dad was saved before I was born so I didn’t get the chance to know who Roxanne, Roxanne was growing up. As a millennial, I’m glad this movie was created because it is an important part of hip hop history I would have never known about.

Roxanne, Roxanne struck a nerve in me stronger than any movie I’ve watched in a while. Weeks later even after I’ve seen it I’m still getting emotional and given multiple signs that I need to publish this blog. To watch Roxanne’s story and see how relevant it is to today is what stood out the most. The movie’s setting is around 1984, it’s over 30 years later and girls are still raising babies, being abused physically and emotionally by men, and disrespected. I have never dealt with anything to that effect but as an empath it hurts my heart that society has so many technological advances but lack the decent respect for each other. Lack of respect for women (specifically black women), boundaries, different points of views and the list goes on. *cues Black Eyed Peas* Where is the love? Lmao but seriously! At the end of the day the only thing we can change is ourselves. Truly forgiving the wrong people have done to us. Forgiving is in no way excusing the behavior but it is giving YOU your sanity back; taking responsibility for your life and BEING the change you want to see in the world.

In the end of the movie; Roxanne Shantè was given her son back, took her siblings in and thrived/ still thriving today. The same is true for YOU reading this. Allow your story to become a testimony and THRIVE!

Grab a picture of or imagine your younger self…look him/her in the eyes and give them the love they truly deserved. Repeat the Hawaiian Ho’oponopono Prayer to yourself: I love you, I’m sorry, please forgive me, thank you. If you feel the need to… expand on what you love yourself for, forgiving yourself for and etc. You’re here now to protect that little girl or boy from danger. Never give up! There are people who NEED the story that’s in your heart which will motivate them to keep going. They need your smile, your service, love, presence. You are needed!

Roxanne, Roxanne is an exceptional movie to watch, learn history from and reflect on how you can turn you pain into triumph! Make sure you check it out on Netflix.

Love,

JaLia S.

P.S. I’m in the process of revamping and committing to my @lovingmemoreco page on Instagram that I created for US to encourage one another and hold each other accountable to loving ourselves more. Make sure you follow the page and be on the look out for updates✨