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Greetings Reader, This month has been heavy for us, with the passing of many including actress Diane Keaton. The passing of singer D’Angelo hit me in ways I didn’t expect. He was just one year younger than my maternal grandfather who also passed away from pancreatic cancer, and so many of his photos carried that same Aquarian energy I’ve always felt in my cousin, the one that my mom said most resembles her father. Grief has been a constant companion in my story. I’ve outlived other children who had the same type of eye cancer that I have. In just a 15-month span, I lost my uncle, my sister, and my father. Each loss left cracks that reshaped the way I look at family, love, and legacy. There’s a quote I saw online that said, “I’ve seen the coffin close on my loved one and I have not been the same.” And when I often ask my See Life Different podcast guests, “What do you want your legacy to be?” — whether or not they have assets and material things to pass on to someone — this is what I really mean. Legacy is about impact, healing, and presence. Family dynamics are complicated. In 2017, data from the US Census revealed that 61% of African American children lived in blended or stepfamily households. I’m sure that number has only grown. I know it personally: I have two living half-siblings. My brother’s children—my nieces and nephew—are also navigating life with stepparents. Even my father himself came from a blended family. These shifting structures don’t weaken us; they ask us to find new ways of connecting and honoring what family really means to you. And yet, through grief and shifting family landscapes, I’ve still found light in holding space for others. I am light, as that is the meaning of my middle name, Nayyar. We don’t choose the hand we’re dealt, but we can choose how to transform it into something that heals us and inspires others when we pause, reflect, and create together. As you walk into quarter four, take the time to uncover a deeper resilience that no statistic can capture. ✨ Clarity calls are open—if you’re navigating transitions in family, work, or personal growth, let’s talk. I’ll help you uncover insights, and yes—look at those analytics too. There are 5 clarity call slots remaining this month. Whether you’re trying to build a brand around storytelling, or you just need help making sense of your digital analytics before your next move — sometimes you need someone to hold space and guide you through. I got you.
✨ Retreat slots are still open—I’d love to see you in this circle of healing, creativity, and cultural immersion in Kenya January 8-11, 2026. It’s designed as a pause from the noise — a chance to immerse yourself in travel, creativity, and wellness while connecting with others who also value reflection, growth and content creation. If you’ve been thinking about joining, this is your nudge. Payment plans available.
With resilience and love, Zaakirah |
From loss to legacy: What Is Your Story Going to Be?
