Embracing the Path: Finding Balance Between Work, Motherhood, and Advocating for Education.

Balancing full-time work as an educator mama scholar with the responsibilities of serving on the Teachers College, Columbia University Student Senate is no small feat. As the Arts and Humanities Senator, I find myself constantly navigating a path filled with both opportunity and challenge. Listen I am so tired and yet I got home earlier than I have all year. I am grateful to not have to drive to Long Island, pick up my daughter, and get home at 11:00 PM even if it is only one night. This is why I have to sit and listen to my inner voice and body and just stop sometimes. Instead of going straight to bed, I decided to "catch up" on some housework, you know, actually putting the folded clothes away. That invisible labor that only I can do, is sometimes the thing that tips me over into exhaustion and burnout.

Coming from the pearly white gates of the illustrious Spelman College, where I immersed myself in transformative student groups like the Toni Cade Bambara Collective, the Student Health and Peer Educators (SHAPE), and the NAACP, I've always held a deep commitment to service and community. You can say they are some of the things that shape my core. These spaces shaped my perspective, grounding me in the power of collective action and the importance of advocating for those whose voices are often marginalized.

Now, as I continue onwards on my journey at Teachers College, I find myself drawing upon the invaluable lessons I have learned along the way. These lessons, deeply rooted in my passion for feminist ethics, critical race theory, and the transformative potential of embodied knowledge in education, serve as guiding principles in my daily work. However, it is important to acknowledge that this path is not without its challenges. The delicate balance between fulfilling the responsibilities of teaching and mentoring students while navigating the complexities of a rigorous PhD program is no small feat. It demands a continuous process of self-reflection and adjustment, a constant recalibration of priorities and goals.

In this intricate dance of academia and personal growth, I am reminded of the importance of honoring the voices that have paved the way before me. I seek to channel the wisdom of my foremothers, to listen attentively to the echoes of Audre Lorde urging me to prioritize self-care while simultaneously breaking through barriers and defying limitations. It is a journey that requires resilience, courage, and a deep sense of purpose.

As I immerse myself in the vibrant intellectual community at Teachers College, I am inspired by the opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogues, to challenge existing paradigms, and to contribute to the ongoing conversation around equity and social justice in education. Each day presents new opportunities for growth and learning, for embracing the complexities of my role with humility and grace. And through it all, I remain steadfast in my commitment to fostering a more inclusive and equitable educational landscape, one that celebrates diversity, empowers marginalized voices, and embraces the transformative power of knowledge.

The weight of my responsibilities can feel heavy, yet I know the importance of showing up, especially in spaces where decisions are made that impact the next generation of scholars. I know what it means for a kind of person to be in a room.

Being on the Student Senate matters to me because it is a platform for change—a space where I can advocate for equity, inclusion, and support for students who, like myself, are navigating a myriad of challenges while striving for excellence. Redefining what it means to exhibit Black Excellence from South Jamaica Queens, NY. It is about ensuring that our experiences and voices are heard, not only in classrooms but in the corridors where policies and possibilities are shaped.

Navigating the intricate web of roles that define our lives is a profound journey that demands resilience, understanding, and a touch of grace. It is a delicate dance between ambition and self-care, a balance that requires constant recalibration and introspection. As we strive to give our best to those around us, whether it be our students, colleagues, or loved ones, we must also carve out space for our own personal growth and well-being.

This journey of self-discovery and self-mastery is not a linear path but a winding road filled with twists and turns. It is a process of trial and error, of learning from our mistakes, and of embracing the uncertainties that come our way. It is about finding the courage to confront our vulnerabilities and limitations, while also celebrating our strengths and achievements.

In the midst of this complex journey, it is essential to remain present and grounded, even when faced with challenges and obstacles. It is about cultivating a sense of mindfulness and resilience that allows us to navigate the highs and lows of life with equanimity and grace. By staying committed to this path of growth and self-awareness, we can continue to evolve and transform into the best version of ourselves, both personally and professionally.

To all those balancing multiple worlds—know that you are seen and that your efforts are not in vain. Our work matters. And together, we have the power to build a future that reflects the values we hold close to our hearts.

Also know we are lowering our Sleep Debt! Liberation is near! And I will be resting early today.

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