I was born in the 80s. Growing up on the east side of Detroit was a challenging yet rewarding experience. I learned to avoid danger and diffuse conflicts at the same time. I watched Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy every day for most of my childhood even though, I never missed an evening of playing outside. My school years were split between a public school, a gifted and talented school, and a private school. I ventured to Rice University in Houston, Texas to study sociology and I loved it! I came back home after graduating, and now I spend most of the Michigan winters reminiscing about warm Decembers.
The Shift
About 21 years ago, a mutual friend introduced me to the love of my life. I didn’t know it at the time, but he would courageously lead me through some of the most challenging moments of my life. Before the first year of marriage, I was unexpectedly kicked out of law school, due to poor academic performance. I felt lost and unsure of my purpose. During this time, something deep inside reminded me that I have always had an affinity for education, so it was an easy decision to pursue my master’s while waiting to be re-admitted to law school.
My parents often remind me of how 5 year old Alicia used to gather the kids in my neighborhood for makeshift classroom sessions in the backyard. I get so much joy from watching the light bulbs turn on in my students’ heads! After graduating with a master’s in education, I joined a charter school team as a math interventionist, but somehow the position morphed into a 7th and 8th grade math teacher position. It was hard and I felt defeated after quickly realizing that the inner-city kids needed more than I had to give emotionally and spiritually. I felt lost again.
The Breakthrough
Two years later, I returned to law school, aced every class, and then willingly dropped out before graduating. This time I was certain; I am an educator and not a lawyer. I began privately tutoring students in math subjects and standardized test prep by using non-traditional methods to reach students that have difficulties in formal education settings.
After 3 years of marriage, our first child was unexpectedly born at 32 weeks and 4 lbs. After 8 years of marriage, my only brother unexpectedly died. I quickly learned that life is not about the things that you expect to happen but rather about how you respond to the things that unexpectedly happen.
The Vision
I have declared this year to be a “walking in my purpose” year. For the first time, I created a vision statement for my life.
“I want to create a life where I never have to worry about having enough money, I can share abundantly with others, I can be more present with my family, and I keep my body in great health!”
Through this vision statement, I can live on purpose, and be intentional with every commitment that I make. My vision statement is like a filter for every decision that I make. Does this align with my vision? “Nope, toss it,” or “Yep, it’s all good, let’s roll!”
My commitment to my vision statement guided me directly to the Detroit Moms Blog. I have always had a passion for written expression. A few years ago, I wrote and self published my first book. I look forward to sharing even more written art through my blog posts.
When I am not writing, I love to cook, travel, listen to music, craft, and spend time with my family. My husband is a mindfulness life coach with cerebral palsy. He connects to the disabled population through his inspiring podcast. He is an amazing supporter of my dreams and such a blessing to our family. Our son is two years old and he loves super heroes and basketball. We also have a six year old daughter who spends her free time crafting, building Lego masterpieces, and composing songs with Disney guitar accompaniments.
I am grateful for Detroit Moms Blog because I look forward to meeting new friends and exchanging stories with other moms in Metro Detroit.
