Just Be Sure to Have Fun

I never cease to amaze myself.  Not because I'm some supernatural human being who gets it right all the time, but because I am always jumping out there and doing stuff that I'd never thought I'd do.  So last week, I acted in a pilot for a summer love series.  I'm laughing right now as I type this because I still can't believe I did it.  Acting has never been on my goal list, but when the opportunity came, I sized it up, contemplated, consulted wise counsel, then said f**k it...why not?.  

When I got the email from the director of the film, my first reaction was, "nah, that's not me....I'm good."  So I respectfully decline.  But the director (getshotbyagirl) was persistent.  So I looked at her previous work and was impressed.  I contacted my advisory board (my people lol), and they all said go for it.  One of my board members particularly said, "just do your best and have fun."  And I took that simple advice to heart.  I showed up to the set all chipper and unprepared with no lines memorized and absolutely no knowledge about acting whatsoever.  When my turn came, I channeled my inner Angela Bassett, gave my all, and made sure I enjoyed every moment of it - even the bloopers.  Almost six hours and 900 acting attempts later, the film was a wrap....and I had once again tried faith and won.   

I went home that night (or morning) feeling good not because I gave an Oscar-worthy performance, but because I enjoyed myself.  Going into new territory always makes me a little uneasy and this time was no different.  But what really helped me conquer this experience was my attitude about just having fun.  Life is but a blink of an eye, why not enjoy ourselves as much as possible while we live it?  

I'm not sure when the series will be released, and I'm actually not tripping either.  I'm just enjoying the different roads life is placing in my pathway.  Acting surely wasn't a road I asked for, and I have no idea where it will lead.  My goal is just to trust the One who does and have fun while doing so.  

Currently smelling the roses,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: Black Dress // Heels (Steve Madden, very old lol)

Keep It Classic

I purchased the Reeboks aka 54-11s I have on in the pictures above about four or so years ago.  I always admired these 80s staples.  My mother used to own a pair that she exercised in.  I remember them vividly.  They were black and possessed a slightly worn look.  So when I grew up and was able to locate and purchase my own pair, I was overjoyed.  I first wore them around my friend and her ex-boyfriend, and I distinctly remember him laughing at my bright yellow kicks.  He was a sneaker head at that time, and I totally respected his collection.  So when he began to make fun of my classic kicks, I immediately questioned my decision to buy them even though I had a lasting, deep love affair for the shoes.  A few days after the laughing episode, my friend called me and asked where I got them from because her boyfriend wanted to purchase her some.  Well look at that!

“Some say hating is confused admiration.”

— Nas

I told myself from then on that I would never question my style again because it's just that.....MY STYLE! 

Remaining true to who you are and your style aesthetic is the best way to keep it classic.  No matter what the crowd is doing or even if they are laughing, do what's in your soul.  Your confidence in your fashion choices will make your outfit stand out that much more.  

Stay true to your choices and who you are.....keep it classic.   

- Samjah Iman

P.S. - Sorry I have no outfit details guys!  Everything I have on in the picture is super old or from a consignment shop. 

Stay Nourished

When I'm hungry I must admit, I am not the most pleasant person.  I get weak, I start to shake, and I'm short with whomever is around me.  As soon as I get some food inside of me, I'm back to being the chill Sam that I am.  In the past couple of years or so I've noticed that the symptoms I get when I haven't fed myself physically are the same symptoms I get when I haven't fed myself spiritually and mentally.  If I go days without spending time with myself, helping someone, reading, listening to music, taking a bike ride, or talking to my loved ones - I get irritated easily and my flow is completely thrown off.       

I can't do ANYTHING when I'm deprived of food physically, mentally, and spiritually.  If anyone has been around me when I'm full, they will probably attest to the fact that it's nothing but love and laughter.  I prefer that Sam.  Therefore, my new focus has been on making sure that I am full in all ways, ALWAYS. I want to constantly replenish myself so that I can give dynamically to everyone around me. 

If I have an empty refrigerator, I cannot feed others.  

Stay stocked, stay full, stay nourished.

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

   Outfit Details:  H&M Stripe Blouse (in stores only) // ASOS Red Trousers (sold out) // Vintage Eel Skin Purse // H&M PeaCoat (sold out)