A Journey through Innocence and Resilience: Memories That Will Never be Forgotten

Throughout life, we are blessed with moments that leave an indelible mark on our hearts. These moments often capture the essence of childhood, when the world seems wide open and free of the complexities of adulthood. One such experience that comes to mind is a public interview attempt that I had with someone I once cared for deeply. The pure intentions and innocent dreams we used to share, the honesty and childishness in our conversations, and the true meaning of love we once knew.

Another unforgettable memory involves a time when my cousin and I shared a difficult period in our lives. We both reached rock bottom, and instead of turning away, we turned to each other. Speaking to one another about random things on a bed in the dark of night, we found strength and support that would shape our future. This experience reminds me of the importance of staying true to one another through thick and thin.

A Childhood Adventure and the Meaning of "Ride or Die"

My best friends, my cousins, and I would often play together during their visits to my grandmother, Granny Gus. J.D., the younger brother of my best friend J.A., was a constant source of frustration due to his tendency to overreact and cry. On one particular day, I was not in the mood for his antics and unfortunately, I resorted to a well-known and often lambasted method, kicking his legs as a form of punishment. The consequences were immediate and severe, as J.D. raced to Granny Gus to seek her protection, turning the kitchen into a scene straight out of a horror movie.

Granny Gus was no joke—she had a reputation for her serious side, but also for her gentle nature. I remember her grabbing a large stock pot and filling it with water, then placing it on the stove and lighting it. As the water began to boil, I felt my fate approaching. J.A. and I stood behind the kitchen door, watching in awe and fear. Granny’s voice left no room for doubt; she demanded the truth and threatened to boil J.D.’s hand if he did not confess. J.D. screamed, and in that moment, he delivered the truth. To my surprise, Granny did not carry out her threat but instead taught me a valuable lesson about the importance of honesty and the meaning of supporting each other, which became known to us as 'ride or die'. My grandmother backed me up in absolutely everything, right or wrong, and that trust and honesty remain with me to this day.

Ancestry and a School Legacy

Our experiences are often intertwined with our heritage, and mine is no exception. My grandfather, a great-great-grandson of a Mvskoke Creek woman and her husband, Mr. Bun and Mrs. Annie Ryal, played a significant role in founding a school. This school, which still stands today as a K-8 institution, bears their name and remains a beacon of hope and education for the Mvskoke Creek community. The Ryal School continues to offer Mvskoke Creek students a place to learn and thrive. This legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of keeping our traditions and heritage alive.

Reflecting on these memories offers a glimpse into the resilience and innocence that define our lives during childhood. These experiences shape us and serve as reminders of the people and the values that stand the test of time.