Hi there.
Recently, I’ve become enamored with the power of stories. A story can transport us to another reality, and force us to contend with themes that teach us about ourselves. Stories can also communicate facts and data in flawless detail, thereby making the reader better educated on the subject being discussed. But despite their ability to alter our reality and feed us information, a vital feature of any story is its ability to generate emotion simply through language. I’m sure you’ve all read a story that has brought you to tears, shocked you beyond belief, or ignited a pit of fury in your stomach. Usually, when we encounter such stories, we tend to share them, whether by recommending them to a friend or relaying every detail to a family member. Therein lies the ultimate power of stories, their capacity to travel and turn into memory. As more people internalize a story, words can spark action, thereby fostering change. However, if we flip that rationale, change can only occur when people tell stories. So…
This blog will, in part, be a collection of stories. Some stories will be light-hearted–my love for skincare, fashion, food–and exist merely as a reflection of things I’ve learned during my twenty-one years of life. Other stories will focus on topics I am just starting to learn about since many stories (and story-tellers) are intentionally silenced, glossed over, or condemned. In truth, I hope this page will inspire change, or at least encourage you to reevaluate your beliefs. I come to realize that I’ve grown the most when presented with an idea that challenges my understanding of how the world works. While I don’t expect to change everyone’s mind, I aspire that one of you might think “Hmm” and either do more research or develop an even stronger conviction in what you believe.
I want to do my part in sharing stories that need to be shared. Frankly, I don’t fully understand the weight of those words. But I feel that using my privilege to amplify voices that have been drowned out is a good use of my time—cheers to growing, learning, and telling stories. Together.
Welcome to Sam to Somewhere.
