Life Update: My Newest and Most Sacred Journey Will Begin Soon

November 05, 2021 by Samjah Iman

Life has drastically changed for me over the past months. I’ve been giving myself the space to accept and fall in love with my latest blessing, and I’m still in awe of it all. I am currently 7 months pregnant!!!! As I type this I can’t believe it. I’ve had a whirlwind of emotions over the past several months during this new phase in my life, but the one I seem to come back to each time is gratefulness.

I’m so thankful. I’m thankful that I have been chosen to guide someone in this life as their mother. I remember when I used to sit and think about what motherhood would be like for me. Now it’s almost here, and I have to pinch myself to make sure I’m not dreaming. I know this task comes with a whirlwind of emotions, responsibilities, happiness, frustration, gaining patience, losing patience, worrying, etc. But a while ago, a friend said these words to me that I believe has helped shaped my view of this new parenting journey I’m about to embark upon. He said, “remember you aren’t raising a child to be in your house forever. You are raising a child to eventually go out into the world.” I held on to that advice. And with that mindset coupled with the wisdom I’ve collected from those who’ve gone on this journey before me, I will do my best to put a loving, aware, intelligent, considerate, independent, self-reflective, confident human being out in this world. Will I always get it right? Nope. But I plan to do the absolute best I can, and give it to my God when I can’t.

I chose to wait to tell the world about my pregnancy because naturally I’m a private person, and I wanted to allow myself the time to convene with God and my loved ones about this blessing first. I needed to take a moment and learn how to accept this blessing without questioning it or being fearful of the what ifs. I get that in a world where people constantly overshare most wouldn’t understand why I took my time revealing my news, but it’s not my responsibility to make others understand how I move. It’s only my responsibility to stay true to myself. This is one of the biggest faith walks I’ve ever taken, and the only voice I need to hear at times (besides my parent’s, close family, and my fiancé’s…yes I am engaged as well) is that voice inside of me - not the world’s.

And to my ladies who think they should be in a rush to have a baby because of their age or whatever, allow me to be your inspiration. I’m 39 and having my first child. I was able to live life on my terms for years before this moment. I was able to establish my writing career. I’ve traveled when I wanted to. I partied all night on several occasions. I slept in a millions times. I opted to eat cereal sometimes so I could buy expensive things. I had the luxury of thinking of myself only for as long as I can remember. So for me, this is the perfect time to dedicate myself to putting another decent human out in this world. While society did make me nervous about having children before my late 30’s, I didn’t allow the rhetoric to scare or rush me into anything that wasn’t for me. When it’s all said and done, I kept the faith in my decisions and did things my way. And I’m damn proud of myself for it too.

To be continued….

- Mama to be

Photos by @goldentimetay

Outfit Details: Nefertiti Necklace // Black Dress // White Heels

I Hope You Dance

August 13, 2021 by Samjah Iman in Motivation, Style

There’s this song my mother loves by Lee Ann Womack (of course her favorite version of the song is by Gladys Knight) titled I Hope You Dance. The chorus of the song says, “And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance. I hope you dance.” The song is basically saying choose to live. Choose to experience the good things in life. Choose to let go. Choose to face challenges head on. Choose to have a positive attitude towards your obstacles. Choose to grow. Choose to love. Choose to try and choose to not be afraid to fail.

Lately this song has been on repeat in my head because I’ve been branching out. For starters, I went to the hairdresser and got braids for the first time in my life! Of course my mother would braid my hair as a child, but I’ve never had extra hair added to my head. As soon as I got the braids I was in love. Having a break from combing my hair feels like a weight has been lifted off my shoulder. I’m hooked! I’m developing into this woman who is only concerned with her own opinion, and it feels amazing. I’m constantly traveling, I’m saying no to things that don’t concern me, I’m letting life surprise me, and I’m finally feeling like I’m worthy of all the blessings I am receiving. I’m trying things and not fretting if they don’t work out for me. I’m letting go of old ideologies. I’m taking on challenges and in the process, I’m giving myself more grace. I’m living life my way, and it feels so good to my soul.

There was a time when I was a bit more reserved…a little too calculated even. But there were no benefits in playing it safe. So I decided to release the grip, just be, and not give a damn about who had an opinion. Because when this life has come to an end, I’d rather be tired from taking chances, than mentally tired for constantly wondering what if. I’m dancing y’all.

Stay tuned…..

- Samjah Iman

P.S. - Also, please check out my article/interview below with Marlon Wayans on his role in the Aretha Franklin Movie Respect. He’s a super interesting guy!

Marlon Wayans Did ‘A Lot Of Soul Searching’ To Get Into ‘Respect’ Character | HelloBeautiful

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Waiting on My Story

July 06, 2021 by Samjah Iman in Motivation, Style

I’m taking things slow these days, and listening for God more. I’m contemplating my next business move and thus far, I’ve come up with NOTHING. Of course everyone has been lending me unsolicited advice on what they think my next venture should be. I’ve been told to sell clothes, makeup (of which I know nothing about), organic facial products, etc. And neither of these things get me excited.

Sometimes I get in a panic when people ask me when and if I’m going to take advantage of the influence I have on social media. I start to think that maybe I should just throw one of the suggestions I’ve been given on the wall and see what sticks. But then I have to remind myself that one of the most important lessons I’ve learned over the years is not to move on anything until I feel it in my soul.

Ya’ll know what I always say; when you are open to receiving a sign, the universe is open to giving you one. I was watching a movie on Netflix called Monster the other day, and the main character was having a discussion with his teacher and peers in his film class. The teacher was trying to get the students to realize that they needed a little more passion behind their art. He went on to explain his point by saying that when artists have a story to tell, it pains them to keep it inside. They ache with the desire to write it, film it, and share it. The main character/student then asked the teacher, “[as an artist] what if you don’t feel any of that?” The teacher replied, “THEN YOU HAVEN’T FOUND YOUR STORY.” Boom.

I paused the television and quickly wrote that line down. It was the reminder I needed. I can try this or that as my new venture, or listen to others and begin to feel like I’m behind. But the truth is plain and simple; I have not found my story yet. And I’m not moving on anything until it I find it. So back to the drawing board I go. I’ll emerge with a story to tell sooner…..or later.

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Photo Credit: Welch Inc Photography

Outfit Details: Jeans (Target in store) // Top

Use Your Core

May 06, 2021 by Samjah Iman in Motivation

I’m still here. I’ve been doing a lot of writing for Hello Beautiful (yay!) which has been taking up the majority of my creative time. I’m flowing, not forcing things, and not crowding up my schedule these days. I’ve fallen in love with my new-found flexibility, and it’s making life more peaceful for me. It has taken me yeeeeaaarrrrssss to get to this place in my life, and I’m grateful.

Another thing that has been tremendously working for me is yoga. I know I’ve spoken about my yoga practice on here before, but during this time in my life I’m even more dedicated to it. It’s like a religion to me now. I practice it 3 times a week with a yogi (Black Yoga Bae) and 6 to 7 times a week on my own. In class, one of the main things my yoga teacher repeats constantly is, “use your core”. Whenever we are struggling to make a pose work or make our body move in an unfamiliar way, she emphasizes how using our core will help us conquer the feat. She is right. Because every time I go to pick myself up from a low lunge to Warrior 3 pose, it’s my core that supports and guides me. It’s amazing how when I don’t use my core, I struggle to get into position. But when I do rely on my core, it’s much easier to transition to the next pose. This truth also applies to my life.

Samjah_Iman_Style_and_energy_Gifted_Apparel_Black_Fashion_Blogger

Outfit Details: Tee // Jeans // Purse (Free People, old)

My center holds all the answers. It’s where my creator resides. When I make moves without being led by my core, I’m shaky. But when I allow my core to lead me, I’m unwavering and firm in my decision and purpose.

Strength and wisdom live in our core, and when we use it to sustain or guide us in any move we make we’re in alignment. This doesn’t mean the move won’t be uncomfortable or we won’t stumble at times, it means that we are cultivating our inner power, exercising our control, and strengthening our endurance. The core is where it’s at. Use it.

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Life Update: I'm the One Who Needs the Work.

April 08, 2021 by Samjah Iman

I’ve been over here practicing yoga, drinking water, sleeping, and appropriately feeding my mind, body, and spirit. While I’m enjoying this chill phase of my life, I’m also learning more about me. And one valuable lesson that keeps coming back to me is the lesson of self. Basically, it’s not them, it’s me. After a few failed attempts at trying to alter the world and the people in it, I came to the conclusion that it would be better for my health if I just concentrate on the only person I could control - me. Before I came to this conclusion, I found myself falling back into the rut of trying to get people to see things differently, to prove how right I was and how wrong the other person was, to try and make people be considerate, nice, etc. I was running myself absolutely crazy while people were seemingly so peaceful with being idiots :-). I knew something was off. I was making life waaaaay harder than it had to be, and I had to realign quick.

Of course, as the universe will have it, the teacher appears when the student is ready. I went to my YouTube app one day to find the perfect meditation soundtrack, and I came across the Tao Te Ching. I listened intently. One thing the narrator said that caught my attention was this…Mastering others requires force. Mastering the self needs strength. - The Tao

Trying to stop a dog from being a dog is senseless. You can’t change the ways of the dog, but you can change if or how you deal with those ways. This is the journey I’m on. I’m no longer pointing the finger outward. I’m pointing it inward. My concentration has been on discovering and tending to my triggers. I now look at every encounter, every situation, and every relationship as a learning experience - a chance for me to see how much I’ve grown and how much work I still have to do. I wake up everyday and make a vow (that I break from time to time lol) to only control what I can control, and let the rest be. Operating this way has afforded me more peace. I’m seeing the fruits of my labor which makes me even more excited to continue on this path. I’m not sure where this current journey will lead me, but I have a feeling that because of this new way of living, blessings will ensue. I’ll keep you all posted.

Outfit Details: Top and Skirt // Heels (old - Steve Madden)

I took a blog sabbatical, but I was still putting looks together! In case you’re not following me on Instagram, below are some of the styles you’ve missed!

Outfit Details: Dress // Boots (old)

Outfit Details: Blazer (old) // Biker Shorts // Crop Top // Tennis (old)

Outfit Details: Crop Top // Joggers // Boots

Outfit Details: Jogger Set // Hat

Outfit Details: T-shirt // Jeans (Target in-store) // Heels

Outfit Details: Jogger Set

Outfit Details: Jacket (Custom made by Aud Culture) // Leggings // Boots

Photo Credit: 87 Photography

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Releasing the Grip...Again

February 17, 2021 by Samjah Iman

Below is a blog post I wrote some time ago. I’m not reposting it for you all, I’m reposting it for me. I’m relearning some stuff I already know to be true, and this blog post speaks to the concept I’m focusing on which is setting your attentions then letting nature handle the rest. I’ve been reflecting on and comparing the times when I did the least and received the most to the times where I did the most, and received the least. Therefore, rediscovering this post has added even more value to the teachings I’m currently receiving. I hope it blesses you all as well.

“True mastery can be gained by letting things go their own way. It cannot be gained by interfering. ”

— Tao Te Ching

Old Post -

I’m always trying to figure out how I can speed a process up, help a process out, or get rid of a process all together. I’m constantly thinking that maybe I’m not doing enough, or maybe I should have said this, or maybe I just need to add a little more of that to make it better. When in actuality, all I’m doing is interfering with the natural/spiritual process that is taking part on my behalf. It seems when I’m constantly trying to make something work, it moves further away from me. But when I release it, it works out how it’s supposed to work out when I least expect it.

The other day I was reminded of some simple yet sound advice my father gave me years ago that can be applied to any situation. Back then I was battling some acne issues which made me obsessed with every product that claimed to rid my face of the hideous critters. I would walk around the house every night with about 20 creams on my face then follow those up with some new mask. I did this religiously for about two weeks but nothing seemed to help. One night, with a white mask caked on my face, I walked into the kitchen - passing my father up in the living room - to get a snack. My father, whom I’m assuming was tickled at the sight of his daughter resembling a mime, took one look at my face and smirked. Just as I was about to head back to my domain, he stopped me and said, “you know the bumps will eventually go away if you just leave them alone and stop focusing on them.” In typical teenage fashion, I rolled my eyes and continued on the journey to my room to sulk. But his words sat with me. The next day, I didn’t use any of the masks or creams I accumulated, nor did I use them the day after that, or the day after that. I just did the simple tasks of washing, toning, and moisturizing. I also made it my business not to stare at the bumps in the mirror every chance I got, and just like daddy said - they eventually went away.

Declare what you want, control the part you can control, then release your grip and watch life work its magic. By doing so you allow all the bumps to work themselves out, and eventually things will change. And what's for you, will come to you.

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: Sweatshirt // Coat (vintage) // Boots

Photo Credit: 87 Photography

39 Challenging Lessons I'm Still Learning

February 04, 2021 by Samjah Iman in Motivation, Style

I’m 39 years old today, and it is absolutely hilarious! I’m still trying to figure out how I jumped from worrying about keeping up with every style choice and dance move TLC (the popular 90’s R&B girl group) made, to cursing in my head while I’m at the grocery store because I literally have only 5 food items on the conveyor belt - and my total is $69.72!! Jesus! But no matter how tough, easy, or EXPENSIVE life gets - I’m grateful. I’m grateful that I’m here to experience all that the universe offers. Life has afforded me some beautiful lessons. Some were easy to learn while others are still being embedded in my psyche.

You may see the lessons I’ve written below next year….and maybe even the year after that. That’s because I am still learning. I will always be learning. My focus is not on mastering anything, it’s centered on giving myself grace as I cruise through the unpredictable waves of life because this experience is a journey, not a conquest. And with that written, below are my 39 lessons I’m still learning.

Blaming other people for your mishaps and poor decisions is futile. Learn from past mistakes, forgive yourself, move the hell on, and be prepared to make some new mistakes. That’s how you gain wisdom, Sam.
Trust God’s timing, it is PERFECT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Every delay, every no, every not now is for a reason! Some times we will know the reason, some times we won’t. That is where faith comes in.
Your intuition is the most valuable asset you possess. Use it, use it some more, and use it again. The more you use it, the stronger it becomes. The more you ignore it, the more faint it becomes.
Believe what he/she shows you, not what he/she says.
You’re always going to be learning. Gaining knowledge and wisdom never ceases. In fact, the more you know - the more confused you may be.
You only have a few friends…just a few. The older you get, the less you will have - and that’s okay.
Talk to your loved ones (especially your parents) as often as you can. They don’t stay around forever. You won’t either.
Always ask yourself if you are living for you or for someone else. Peer pressure is real and can distort even the most confident person’s view.
Save more money girl. Life is full a surprises and some of them cost a fortune (like grocery store trips *insert eye roll*).
Vulnerability is actually a sign of strength. Open your heart. It’s a courageous act.
This too shall pass.
Gather your thoughts before you speak in a heated discussion. It’s easier to do damage than to undo it.
Breathe…..just breathe. Take deep breaths. They really help.
Try to always operate in a state of gratefulness. The universe responds abundantly to that. It also helps make life a little easier.
Deep connections energize you. Keep seeking them.
Your alone time is non-negotiable. It revitalizes you. It nurtures your spirit. Don’t ever let anyone infringe upon that…..no matter how cute they are lol.
Understand that other people are fighting battles too. Sometimes their decisions have nothing to do with you but everything to do with their experiences, situations, fears etc. Get over yourself.
Don’t be afraid to take chances. At the least you’ll have an interesting story to tell.
Stop looking, and you’ll find it.
You are going to be pissed off at yourself in the future if you look back and see that you dimmed your light. To avoid a mid-life crisis, be who you are fully meant to be right now.
Listen more than you talk. Sometimes if you let the other person do the talking, you’ll learn everything you need to know without having to seek.
Check yourself often. Being self-aware is the most wise thing you can do.
Rest is spiritual….that is when you hear from God.
Continue to give things away for free. This could be advice, things you no longer need, a smile, a compliment, or a listening ear. It feeds your soul when you give. The reward is contentment.
Say no to anything that doesn’t serve you. Saying no (and sometimes saying yes) shows self-confidence.
Remember to put yourself on a mind diet often. Some things that aren’t mean to positively serve you can seep into your subconscious without you even knowing it. Monitor what you monitor.
Be okay with being misunderstood. Not everyone is on the same path as you and that’s okay.
Continue to exercise. Show God your appreciation for the temple you were blessed with by taking care of it.
Have a lazy day at least once a month. DO ABSOLUTELY NOTHING ON THAT DAY! This revitalizes you and boosts your creativity.
It’s okay if you don’t have all the answers. Be confident in what you don’t know as well as what you do know. Also, it’s okay to be wrong. That’s how you learn.
It is not your responsibility to fix everyone. God loves them even more than you love them. So let God take care of them. You tend to yourself.
Don’t be afraid to start over. There are blessings in new beginnings.
Tell yourself the truth always, then be as honest as you can with others. The truth may be hard at first in some instances, but it saves you a lot of turmoil in the long run.
Read and travel as often as you can. These are two of the best ways to educate yourself.
Connect with nature more. Take walks, let the sun embrace you. This is therapy.
Remember that success is subjective. You don’t have to want what the world wants. Your success doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. As long as it’s fulfilling to you, that’s all that matters.
Try to do what’s right now so that you won’t have to pay for it later. A lot of people are still living with mistakes they made yeeeaaaarrrsss ago. Take heed.
Live out as many dreams as possible. If they don’t work out, so what? At least you can say you tried.
Focus on the good, and the good will multiply.

Peace and Blessings,

- The Birthday Girl

Outfit Details: Y’all, I have absolutely no outfit details on this look because everything is old! I purchased these pants from ASOS about eight years ago! The shirt I’m wearing is a long, white buttoned-down that I tied up, and the shoes came from Steve Madden years ago. Sorry!

Photo Credit: 87 Photography

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Being Selfish is My Mode of Operation From Now On....

January 27, 2021 by Samjah Iman in 70s Fashion, Energy, Motivation, Style

I just left the hospital yesterday. I had a minor procedure done (lady stuff). I’m healing and resting. Although the circumstances weren’t favorable, I found the blessing in the storm. I know for sure that one of the purposes of these circumstances was for me to get some much needed rest. I’m currently being selfish, and it feels so good. For the first time in a while, my mind and body are still. And it only took me having to go to the hospital for that to happen. Wow.

I’ve been saying for the last few months that I needed some rest, but I wasn’t following through. After I resigned from my job in December, I wanted to hit the ground running with my freelance career. My mind was steady racing everyday about everything I needed to do. I feared that if I gave myself a break, I would miss a lucrative opportunity. I was doing my yoga in the morning and all the meditative stuff, but sometimes I would even rush that to get to my work. Subconsciously, I began to carry that familiar guilt on my shoulders that almost every black woman bears - the guilt that we must be superwoman to every problem and everyone except our needs and ourselves. I don’t know how I began to feed into this notion because I try my best not to subscribe to that “black women should be strong all the time and keep going no matter what” crap, but there I was…lying in the hospital bed (enjoying the silence and hospitality might I add) and thinking, “Yup Sam, God had to sit you down so that you can understand that it’s time for you to become a little more selfish.” I heard God, and I’m taking heed.

“Taking care of yourself is taking care of others.” My 96-year-old grandmother uttered those words to me out of the blue this past summer while I was sitting on her plastic-covered couch, squinting at her 32-inch television. I now feel those words deep in my soul. I love to work and will continue to grind…but at my own pace. Wealth to me is good health, a flexible schedule, and peace. I’m giving myself permission to ignore calls and delay responses to emails and messages when I need to. I will extend myself even more grace and will allow myself to take whatever I need to off my plate to remain sane. I will feel the strength and confidence (instead of weakness) in saying “I won’t be able to do that right now…or never.” I will have however many lazy moments I need. I will take the time to sit and read a book without thinking about what else needs to be done. I will give myself a moment (if not more) out of each day to be selfish, and I will not beat myself up about it. This is my creed, and I will refer back to this post when I need to. Peace and blessings, y’all.

Selfishly,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: Vintage Leather Coat // Heels (Steve Madden, old) // Skirt (Free People, old) // Top (Zara, old) // Sunglasses (vintage hand-me-downs)

Photo Credit: 87 Photography

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Recognizing My Power...

January 07, 2021 by Samjah Iman in 70s Fashion, Energy, Motivation, Style

It’s January 7th, 2021 at 11:39 a.m. I’m writing this blog post from the comfort of my kitchen table. As I sip my water and nosh on my King Cake, I’m in a state of calmness. Ironically, Nas’ classic song, The World is Yours, is seeping through my Bluetooth speaker. I chuckle. His words match my sentiments. I’m reveling in the fact that there’s an apparent shift happening in the universe, and I’m 100% positive that I am on the right side of that shift.

Of course the buffoonery that was displayed yesterday at the U.S. Capitol showed us what we already knew…white privilege is alive and well. But through all the pandemonium, my understanding of just how powerful my people are became even more apparent. Those terrorists where not only acting out of stupidity, they were acting out of cowardice. They are scared. They are scared that the nation they worked so hard to steer in their direction is slipping right from under their weak palms. They are scared that more of us finally woke up, and that the power we as black people showed in this last presidential election and in Georgia will be exercised from here on out. Although yesterday wasn’t a laughing matter, I couldn’t help but smile. I smiled because my power is so persuasive, my voice is so resounding, my vote is so critical, it brings the demonic spirit out of suckers, it rallies the positive activists, it puts officials in and out of government seats, it changes the political trajectory of racist states, and it gives hope to future generations. With this much power, there is no need for me to wait for life to go in my direction. I can get what I want, when I want it, how I want it. I come from brilliant people, and with the technology and resources I have at my finger tips - I should be doing it bigger and better than they did. All I have to do is tap into the power that lives right in my spirit, and I will.

Recognize the power you have, and use it wisely. Continue to flourish, continue to heal, continue to use your talents for your benefit and then for the greater good of our community. It’s our time y’all….let’s make our foremothers and forefathers proud.

Walking in my power,

- Samjah Iman

Photo Credit: 87 Photography

Outfit Details: Floral Turtle Neck // Wide Leg Pants // Purse