What comes to my mind...

To all my cherished readers, esteemed authors who inspire me, loyal subscribers of my newsletter, and the wonderful visitors who have graced my virtual doorstep, I extend my warmest greetings. My name is Shelita Taylor, known by various pen names such as SMT, Mahala Goddess, and the Goddess of Love.

My journey as a writer commenced as a means to give voice to the innermost feelings I held when I was just thirteen years old. Over time, this endeavor transformed into my profound passion for self-expression. I was, and to some extent, still am, a woman of few words. Raised in the heart of South Oak Cliff, Dallas, Texas, my silence was a shield against the unfamiliar faces and the daunting prospect of forging new connections. Witnessing the judgment and hostility harbored by many towards the unsuspecting made me wary of venturing into the unknown. I possessed an innate ability to discern the negativity, much like a vigilant hound detects hidden contraband.

Additionally, my early years lacked the conventional socialization experiences that most children undergo. I never attended daycare or pre-kindergarten; instead, I spent my days under the watchful eye of my beloved grandmother, who doubled as my babysitter. She taught me the art of uprooting weeds, nurturing new grass, trimming hedges, and preparing meals from dawn till dusk. Though my young cousin was a constant companion, these activities failed to prepare me for the world beyond, for the children I would eventually encounter in school were markedly different from my cousin.

Hence, when I finally embarked on my educational journey at the age of five, socializing was a formidable challenge. The peers in my class wasted no time in pointing out my quiet and timid demeanor. They would inquire, "Why are you so peculiar? Why do you rarely speak and shed tears so readily?" To ease my transition, the principal accompanied me during the first half of each school day, introducing me to my classmates. The moment I was left to navigate the classroom on my own, it felt like a nightmarish ordeal, as my peers, with unearned confidence, passed judgment upon me. In time, I swallowed my pride and gradually integrated myself into the classroom and its social dynamics.

I am grateful to have overcome that initial social awkwardness, though I still maintain a preference for a small circle of friends and limited social interaction. As I've grown older, this inclination has evolved into a protective measure for my energy. It may seem surprising, but the personalities, actions, and decisions of those around us can have a profound impact on our well-being, often more than it affects them. This is not to dissuade you from forming connections, but rather to encourage discernment in choosing your company wisely.

I found immense pleasure in penning down this narrative and am eager to share more such anecdotes in the future. I hope you all derive as much enjoyment from reading my words as I do from crafting them to share with you. In closing, I wish you all peace, love, and illumination. May your pride shine brightly and guide you on your unique journey.

With gratitude, Shelita Taylor