It Takes a Village

My Family, My Tribe, My Village

When I think about my community, it’s not just one group of people—it’s this beautiful, ever-growing web of connections. My husband, my kids, my parents, my siblings, cousins, aunties, uncles, friends, coworkers, gym buddies, church family, even the cashier at the grocery store who recognizes me with a friendly “Oh hey, Chika!” All of these people, in big and small ways, make up my world.

Some of these people are deeply involved in my life—like my husband and kids, who see me every single day. Others I might only see once a year. But they all matter. They shape me. When I think about who I am, it’s impossible to separate myself from the community around me. I’m not just a solitary being floating through the universe; I’m an accumulation of every interaction, every relationship, every shared moment.

Why Community Matters

Here’s something I’ve learned: their experiences affect my experiences. When someone I care about is hurting—like a friend at church going through a hard time—it touches me too. It might not be as intense, but it’s real. Their suffering becomes a part of my world, just as their joy does.

And when I make decisions about my life—like choosing to live in a healthier, more joyful way—it’s not just for me. It’s for them too. When I feel good, I show up better for my community. I bring positive energy, good vibes, and hopefully, a little inspiration. It’s a ripple effect: my healing, my happiness, my growth—all of it impacts the people around me.

Getting the Vibe of Community Strength

I didn’t always understand how much community matters. It was during big life moments—my wedding, my pregnancy, and my journey as a mom—that I really got it.

Take my wedding, for example. It was during COVID, and I couldn’t invite everyone I’d ever known. I had to really think about who I wanted there—who felt like they were truly part of my community. It wasn’t easy, but it made me appreciate how lucky I am to have so many meaningful connections.

Then came my daughter’s birth. I was a new mom in 2022, with COVID still looming large. I was terrified of everything—diseases, strangers, you name it. I tried to shield her from the world, limiting her exposure even to family events. But as time passed, I realized something: I couldn’t do this alone.

It takes a village.

The Village That Raises Us

My daughter’s village includes her grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and even her teachers. My mom picks her up from school every day, and I see her sense of humor shining through in my daughter. Her aunts adore her, and her cousins are like her first best friends.

I look at her, and I see all of these people reflected in her. It’s comforting, especially on those hard parenting days when the fear of “messing her up” creeps in. I know I’m not doing this alone. She’s surrounded by love, guidance, and a wealth of perspectives that will help her grow into her own person.

Our inspiration wheel

This sense of community extends beyond parenting. It’s in my career, my personal growth, and even writing this blog. When I strive to do better in any area of my life, it’s not just for me. I know my community is watching—family, friends, coworkers—and they’re rooting for me.

Maybe one day my daughter will read this blog and feel inspired to write her own. Maybe a cousin will see me balancing a career, family, and personal goals and think, “If Chika can do it, so can I.” And it goes both ways—when I sit down with my community, I hear their stories, their struggles, their wins. It inspires me right back.

I mean: Real real connections

Here’s what I find interesting: the kind of inspiration I get from my community feels so much deeper than what I get from scrolling on social media. Sure, I might follow someone with similar interests, but our lives aren’t truly aligned. We don’t share the same history, culture, or context.

With my community, there’s a shared understanding. We eat the same foods, navigate similar challenges, and celebrate milestones together. When someone in my circle finds a way to heal or grow, it often resonates with me because we’re connected on a deeper level.

Gratitude for my community

At the end of the day, my community is my foundation. They hold me up when I’m struggling, celebrate with me when I succeed, and inspire me every step of the way. And I know that I’m a part of their foundation too.

So, here’s to the people who make up my world—the ones who’ve taught me that life isn’t meant to be lived alone. It’s meant to be shared, celebrated, and supported.

Take a moment to think about your community. Who are the people that shape your world? And how can you show up for them, just as they show up for you?

Let’s keep building these connections, one moment at a time. 💛

With love and light,

Chika B.