From mosquito-bitten nights in a $2.50 hotel to dancing for the last time on African soil, my final days in Ghana were unforgettable. I became Adawa, saw the Ashanti King, and nearly caused a market riot over a lost camera. Oh—and I watched my dad get chased for wearing a sombrero and biker shorts in Senegal.
We danced in a Fulani village. Rode dune buggies to the Atlantic. Prayed at the ocean’s edge. I missed my mama. We got soaked in rain, witnessed beauty, and learned painful truths.
And then we crossed into Ghana…
In the summer of 1994, I boarded a plane for the very first time—with a passport, a notebook, and a dream. At sixteen, I left Brooklyn and journeyed with my dad, aunt, and cousin to Senegal and Ghana for what became a soul-shifting trip to the Motherland.
🕊️ When fear comes knocking, don’t leave it on read—let faith answer the door with the Word as backup.
This summer, I’m decluttering more than closets. I’m clearing out the lies fear told me and making room for bold, faith-filled action.
Grief doesn’t knock before it shows up. But neither does healing. Read this open letter from Auntie Lela to all her nieces and nephews about life, loss, and choosing to live again.
Parenting neurodivergent children requires deep listening, daily grace, and limitless love. In my latest blog post, I reflect on raising my three beautifully unique kids—and how God meets me in the moments in between.
Every summer, my spirit starts whispering “declutter, sis.” And this year? I’m listening. I’m deep diving into papers, closets, garages, and forgotten storage units—not just to clean, but to make room for what’s next.
🧠💛 Today, I reminded my son Tyson that he carries three names—child of God, his own, and his family’s. When our babies understand who they are, they grow into who they’re meant to be.
There’s something sacred about a woman who can say “No.” without flinching, without apologizing.
Jesus didn’t say “Yes” to every request—and neither should you. Boundaries are biblical. Rest is righteous. Peace is holy.
Let’s honor the God in us by protecting our capacity. 🙏🏾
✨ Elder women have been my Naomis—guiding, nurturing, and loving me since my mother's passing. Discover how their wisdom transformed my life. Read more at memoirsofablackgirl.com. 🌿 #FaithJourney #MemoirsOfABlackGirl @LelaJFagan
There’s something deeply sobering about the way people react when you step into your purpose—especially when those people are the ones who know you best.
Mark 6:1-29 NLT is a chapter that doesn’t just speak—it shouts. It tells two stories that seem separate but are inextricably linked by a common theme: the cost of calling.
“Legacy isn’t built on brilliance alone—it’s shaped by obedience.”
What does the wisest king in the Bible have in common with Broadway’s most lyrical legend?
A cautionary tale of ambition, approval, and the downfall of men who flew too close to the sun.
Originally penned 11 years ago, this reflection remains close to my heart. Sometimes the smallest moments—like a fallen sparrow—carry the biggest lessons. I’ve revisited and refreshed this piece for Memoirs of a Black Girl, but its core message of faith in action stands timeless.
Editor’s Note:
Originally written over a decade ago, this reflection captures a pivotal moment in my journey—closing one chapter and stepping boldly into the next. As you read, I invite you to walk with me through the halls of memory, faith, and healing.
— Lela J. Fagan