“Let folks go.”

This Advice From Madea Changed My Life

I chose to have peace in my life. What will you choose?

First, let me tell you a little background. Many years ago, I came to a crossroads in my life, and I had to make some serious decisions for my family and me.

I had a huge extended family, many friends, and a community that I was born into. But I wasn’t happy. I didn’t fit.

I was tragically unhappy. I went years without a natural smile. You know, a genuine smile — laughter was utterly foreign to me. This is a significantly simplified explanation of the state of my life.

I was living a lie — not because I was trying to be deceitful but because I didn’t know I had other choices when I got married the first time (at 16 years old).

In many ways, I feel like I’ve lived two separate lives.

I was almost 40 years old when I “came out.” I knew it would bring consequences — what I didn’t expect was that many of those repercussions would still be felt even now, almost 13 years later. But that’s not what this story is about.

This story is about the PURE wisdom from Madea. It carried me through many challenging times because it reminded me of what I do have.

For those that don’t know, Madea is a character written by Director, Producer, and playwright Tyler Perry. Inspired by his aunts and grandmother — he combined them and created Madea. He first started producing plays while he was homeless, and now he is a billionaire for his insightful, message-laced humor.

Sometimes, we get wisdom from our “village” or community. Mine turned their backs on me. I had to seek support, understanding, and compassion from unexpected sources.

But — I had these three people that became my roots, and they’re still the only three people on this planet that I truly trust. Because of them, I survived the worst life could throw at anyone when my son died.

Those three people, they’re my roots. My strength for whatever comes my way.

Most of my friends and family turned their backs on my children and me. I’ve lost three inheritances [not an exaggeration) because I chose to be honest with myself and my family about being gay.

At first, I was in shock. I couldn’t believe the mass exodus from my life—the talk, lies, and hate were too much. I had to walk away from all of them.

Peace has been my reward.

Madea’s words of wisdom reverberated in my soul during those darkest days. They still do. If you’ve got a moment, listen to her. Excellent advice for when you struggle to decide what’s most important in your life, what you need to keep, and what “you can let go.”

Here’s a hint; the essential thing in life is peace in your soul. Without it — everything else is a fraud that mimics anxiety, stress, and depression. My hope for us all is that we get right with the person in the mirror and find peace.

Thank you, Tyler Perry, for sharing Madea with the world. We all needed her.

If you would like to buy me a coffee, it would be greatly appreciated, and you can do so here.

I appreciate you, and I am so glad you’re here. 🌼 Kimberlee

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