From Heartache to Healing to Earning: Elevating My Essence in Real Time

 When the heart aches, you let it flow  and you show yourself compassion.

That was my mantra this past weekend. It was a day (and night) full of raw, real human emotions  vulnerability, connection, and generous doses of kindness. Especially toward myself.

I had planned a camping trip, a gentle getaway to reconnect with nature and allow space for healing. Before setting out, I did the essentials: fed Morri, my feline queen; gave her a forehead kiss (which she received like the royalty she is); watered my plants; and whipped up some pancakes. Yes, they were fluffy and comforting. Yes, I deserved them.

I’ve realized that part of my heartache wasn’t just about love  it was about money, too.

About wanting to feel supported. Secure. Seen.

About wishing someone would say: "You don’t have to do this alone."

But guess what? I don’t have to do it alone  because I’m doing it with the version of me that’s rising.

So I’m channeling this emotion into energy.

Into building offers. Sharing my story. Serving others.

And turning pain into purpose…

The Climb Begins

I joined a group of about 30 vibrant souls for the mountain trip. Each person had their own reason for being there  and we held space for one another in such a beautiful, unspoken way.

There were games (which I skipped, because my heart was still busy processing things). We roasted yam dipped in palm oil sauce  pure bliss. Others brought rice, spaghetti, bread… it turned into a potluck on a peak.

Now, I must give a heartfelt standing ovation to Moh  the man who watched over us all night. He wasn’t just guarding bodies, he was guarding hearts too. Before him, our “Senior Oga” held things down until duty called. This team? Golden.

Drama on the Ridge

Of course, no human gathering is ever completely drama-free. Someone disrespected Moh  our volunteer protector and let’s just say a few people clapped back without holding back. It threw off the mood momentarily. He’d been kind, humble, and respectful to everyone, and her response lacked grace. Thankfully, it was addressed, and we moved forward  sharing stories, laughter, and warmth through the night.

Soul Connections

I met a gentle soul who came with her brother. We connected instantly. Another lady hugged me tightly when she discovered I’m a mindfulness, counseling, and NLP practitioner. There’s something sacred about people recognizing your essence  and embracing it.

As the night unfolded, the stars watched silently. The city sparkled below like scattered gemstones. And my heart, though aching from a recent love conversation with no clear reply, felt deeply… alive.

Gratitude Reflection

Today, I’m grateful for my heart 

for its bold softness,

its quiet bravery,

and the love it dared to express under the stars.

Even though the reply wasn’t what I hoped for, I honor my truth.

I am proud of myself for being open, for letting love flow, even when it felt scary.

I am grateful for the shy courage that lives inside me.

For the stillness of the mountain.

For the city lights below  steady, even when I felt uncertain.

For Morri, waiting with silent grace, reminding me I am loved.

Nothing beautiful is ever wasted  not my words, not my love, not my presence.

I release the ache, but I keep the growth.

And I welcome peace back into my heart.

Daybreak & New Hikers

At dawn, we took turns using the one mat for prayer. Then, I watched the sunrise  soft and golden. Some members of the group went down to welcome new hikers. I stayed back to attend a 9am online session (thank you, stable network gods).

Right on cue, the new hikers arrived  including a glowing lady who had said she was coming just for the hike, and another friend I met post-session. Their excitement was contagious. I reunited with a hiking buddy from the week before, and of course, received one of those deep, healing hugs from Ms. Claudia. She gives them like a true therapist.

We had games, photo sessions, couples bonding, and family laughter echoing through the valley. One newcomer had a rough go (her first time) and fell sick, but the admins cared for her with such grace and tenderness.

And Then… Back to Her Highness

Eventually, I returned to Her Royal Highness Morri.

She was unimpressed.

Her food was untouched  a silent protest.

Translation: “You dared to leave me alone?”

I cleaned her plate, prepared something fresh, and gave her a heartfelt hug. She forgave me with a nose kiss. We then curled up like two big cats and slept the entire day away.

In the End…

I’m learning that even when the heart doesn’t get the response it longs for, it can still be proud of the love it gave. Nature listened. Strangers turned into kindred spirits. And Morri? She always brings me home.

Wishing you all a peaceful weekend,

with healing, hugs, and a whole lot of grace.

P.s

Shoutout to Mr Jossie who's alway taken care of us and coordinate everyone with wisdom. Hercule my gee, Eddie banga, Bala, Eno, Ziya and Peruzzi our tent guy he make sure everyone has a tent I mean when you paid for it.

Peace.