This is proof that childhood dreams can come true.

Next year I turn 40, and I just had my first solo art show.

This weekend was a major milestone in my journey as an artist.

“Joy is the Revolution” was all about hope, community, and reconnection.

Leading up to the event? Ya boy was stressed.

But every piece of art reflected my heart and heritage.

DJ WyldFlower set the vibe.

We had make-and-create stations where people could color versions of my pieces and design their own Joy Bombs.

My homeboy Sani made giant letters.

My high school best friend made delicious mocktails.

And I got to do joy readings with attendees using my Joy Bomb Affirmation cards.

But this wasn’t just about me.

It couldn’t have happened without my community.
Your support.
Your belief.
Your presence made this real.

I’m beyond grateful to share my art and heart with Austin, TX.

Joy isn’t just a feeling—it’s a force. And it’s contagious.

This is just the beginning.

Massive thanks to everyone who helped make this happen: Valerie, Camari, Evelyn, LaCole, Chris, Sani, Nhi, Shari, Kay, Kiana, DJ Wyldflower, and the Origin Studio House team (Brittney, Dante, and Stefon).

The world doesn’t need more fear

The world doesn’t need more fear; it needs more joy.

Joy that heals.

Joy that connects.

Joy that dares to believe that we are the only ones that can save us now.

So let that light shine—full wattage.

Be the spark, the creator, the heartbeat of something greater.

Because joy is contagious, and the revolution starts now.

How to combat negative self talk

Negative thoughts are like uninvited guests—they show up, but you don’t have to entertain them. Here’s how to guide your inner voice toward kindness:

1. Write it out.
Jot down your feelings to release them. Challenge negative thoughts by reframing them with a positive perspective.
 

2. Stay present.
Practice mindfulness—whether it’s focusing on your breath or tuning into the moment.
 

3. Move your body.
Dance, walk, stretch, or lift. Movement helps shift your mindset and boosts your mood.
 

4. Embrace the gray.
Life isn’t black and white. Pause to find the middle ground in any situation.
 

5. Reduce negativity.
Unfollow energy-draining accounts or take breaks from the news. Protect your peace.
 

6. Practice affirmations.
Replace self-doubt with powerful, positive statements. Repetition rewrites your inner story.
 

7. Count your wins.
Write down what you’re grateful for. Gratitude helps you recognize the beauty that already exists in your life.
 

8. Be kind to yourself.
Speak to yourself with the love and patience you’d give a toddler learning something new.
 

9. Reach out.
Share with a friend or seek guidance from a therapist. You don’t have to go it alone.

Each small step toward positive self-talk is a step closer to joy. Keep shining your light.

PS: The way you’d comfort a friend in hard times? You deserve that same compassion. You’re human too. 💛

I’m choosing joy instead

Sometimes life throws you curveballs—in the best way.

Like your favorite song randomly playing just when you needed it. Or sunlight sneaking through the trees, reminding you that you’re a part of something bigger. Or a stranger’s kind smile on a day when you’re barely holding it together.

Noticing those little sparks? That’s an act of rebellion.

It’s saying, “I see the fear and dread, but I’m choosing joy instead.”

We humans—we’re messy, glorious contradictions. We laugh. We cry. We argue. We forgive. We feel it all, and somehow, we keep showing up.

10 reasons why joy is the revolution

Good morning, sunshine

Here are 10 reasons why joy is the revolution

1. Joy dismantles fear. It makes room for courage.

2. Joy creates connection. It’s the glue of community.

3. Joy elevates purpose. It reminds us why we keep going.

4. Joy rewires the brain. Gratitude and laughter lead to growth.

5. Joy shifts perspective. It turns problems into opportunities.

6. Joy invites curiosity. It helps us explore without limits.

7. Joy transcends boundaries. It unites across differences.

8. Joy amplifies hope. It reminds us that even dark clouds have silver linings.

9. Joy is free. Anyone can tap into it, anywhere.

10. Joy is an act of defiance. It thrives in the face of hardship.

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Joy Bombs: Inspirational trading cards to keep, share, or leave for a stranger.

Thoughtful, fun cards designed to create deeper connections.