Hey there, friends. Today, I want to open up and share a bit more about my personal background and the unique cultural tapestry that has shaped who I am.

You see, my family story is a bit of a complex one. My dad is Nigerian, through and through. He was born and raised in Lagos, immersed in the rich traditions and vibrant energy of his home country. And my mom? Well, she was a bit of a mystery to me.

You see, my mom passed away when I was just a baby – only two weeks after I was born. It was a devastating loss, one that I’ve had to grapple with my entire life. And with her gone, the details of her own cultural heritage have always been a bit of a blank spot for me.

All I know is that she was of mixed race, but not Nigerian or Black in the traditional sense. Her background was a bit of a puzzle, one that I’ve always longed to unravel. What were her roots? What experiences and perspectives did she bring to the table? These are the questions that have always lingered in the back of my mind.

But even without knowing the full story of my mom’s side, I’ve always been deeply influenced and inspired by the Nigerian half of my heritage. Growing up, I was immersed in the sights, sounds, and flavors of my dad’s culture. The vibrant fabrics, the rhythmic music, the mouthwatering cuisine – it was all a integral part of my upbringing.

And let me tell you, navigating that cultural duality hasn’t always been easy. There were times when I felt like I was straddling two worlds, never quite fitting in fully with one side or the other. The expectations and traditions of my Nigerian heritage didn’t always align with the more Western norms and values that I was exposed to in the broader society.

But you know what? As I’ve grown older, I’ve come to embrace that cultural richness as a true gift. It’s what makes me who I am – a unique blend of influences and perspectives that I’m incredibly proud of.

Sure, there are still moments when I grapple with the unknowns of my mom’s side. The lack of connection to that part of my heritage can be a source of sadness and longing. But I’ve learned to find solace in the aspects of my Nigerian roots that I do know and cherish.

The way my dad’s eyes light up when he tells stories of his childhood in Lagos. The comforting aromas of the traditional dishes he taught me to prepare. The sense of community and belonging that comes from being part of such a vibrant, tight-knit culture. These are the things that ground me and fill me with a deep sense of pride and appreciation.

And you know what? I’m determined to keep those traditions alive, not just for myself, but for future generations. I want my kids, and their kids, to grow up with that same cultural duality, to feel the weight of their heritage and the power it holds.

Because at the end of the day, our backgrounds, our roots – they’re what make us who we are. They’re the threads that weave the tapestry of our identity, the stories that shape our perspectives and guide our journeys.

So, while the details of my mom’s side may forever remain a mystery, I’m grateful for the rich cultural tapestry that my Nigerian heritage has provided. It’s a part of me that I’ll always cherish and celebrate, no matter what.

What about you, friends? What does your own cultural background look like? I’d love to hear your stories and learn from your experiences. After all, it’s in sharing these personal narratives that we can truly come to understand and appreciate the diversity that makes our world so incredible.

Alright, I think that’s enough soul-searching for now. Time to go whip up a Nigerian feast and maybe put on some traditional music. Catch you later, friends!

Tina