From Small To Unstoppable: Embracing the Girl Within

Written By: Koshia Silver

I'd like to share a story with you.

There was a little girl who didn't realize that her skin color made her “different” until her family moved to the Midwest. At about nine years old she experienced racism for the first time.

From classmates.

From adults.

The girl didn't realize the passion and gifts she carried, instead she made herself small.

Small enough to go unnoticed.

Small enough to fit in with anyone.

So small that she forgot herself.

She forgot,

her creativity;

her wit;

her intelligence;

her compassion;

her excellence . . .

There were a few occasions when she would meet up with her former self.

Through art. Through creativity.

On the stage. In the spotlight, she could turn it on.

She became.

It was during that time that she could become larger than life itself. The pain could demand attention, the polish could peel, the movement took over and her heart opened. During a performance, you could get a glimpse of her soul. There was no avoiding her story.

Through writing, her heart poured onto a page.

It was magical.

In art, her imagery spoke.

But, at the end of the performance or when the story was finished, she had to become small once again.

Over the years her opportunities to become more than small reduced in frequency.

In college, she battled with a degree in practicality or a degree in fulfillment. Ultimately, she chose a practical path that also had the ability to fulfill her.

Throughout her career, she allowed select people to see. She let them in. Together, they were great.

But there were still too many that wanted her to remain small.

Today, I am done being small.

Done.

It's time to lean into my favor.

As a little girl, I didn't realize racism, and when I was older, misogynism were ways to hide insecurities. And, today, I simply don't care.

Now, finally, at 38 I am ready to become.

I want my little girl, and all the little girls to know that it is okay to be big. Don't shrink for anyone or anything. Ever.

If your ideas are too bold.

If your creativity causes gossip or chatter.

If your curiosity gets you into trouble.

You're on to something.

Keep pushing, keep questioning, keep dreaming.

Keep becoming.

---

Meet the Author

Koshia Silver Koshia Silver is a mom of three active kids and a marketing and communications professional, and in her professional life, she is an advocate for public education and women's issues.