Staying Positive in the Face of Portland's Decline
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Staying Positive in the Face of Portland's Decline
Discovering Meaning & Maintaining Optimism
As I cruise along the familiar streets of my cherished hometown, my heart aches with concern for what has become of this place. It's a question that lingers persistently in my mind, accompanied by a sense of “what in the world!” regarding my purpose here. Yet, among this uncertainty, a moment of clarity springs forth within me, revealing the true reason behind my return home - the presence of my beloved family. My dear mother, my cherished brothers, and my precious nieces and nephews, they are the very essence that breathes life into this city for me.
It feels as though it was only yesterday when we were all growing up together, kicking it. And now, everyone has bloomed into seasoned adults with their own families. One of my nieces, Octavia, who shares my name, recently celebrated her 30th birthday. It's crazy how time has flown right on by!
(Octavia’s in the middle, accompanied by my niece Dartanyah and nephew Alonzo).
Reconnecting with my family fills my heart with BIG TIME joy and reassurance in my decision to return home. BUT I must confess that there has been a significant decline in this city during the 15 to 20 years I've been away. I’ve heard stories about the months of riots, certain areas of downtown resembling desolate wastelands (I’ve seen it with my own eyes), and the devastating impact of the Covid pandemic.
Not to mention, the influx of Californians has resulted in a surge of soaring housing prices, homelessness with tents everywhere and litter becoming an all-too-common sight in many neighborhoods. The once beautiful buildings have been covered by graffiti, and the mental health issues here are alarming to witness.
A recent article I read, talked about how millions of dollars have been spent on security cameras in parking garages to prevent break-ins. Yet, this seems like a mere attempt to hide the fact that the city is unsafe, neglected, and its people have been forgotten. While the wealthy and progressive business owners may appear to be doing well, I question if they truly are. In this current climate, no amount of money can guarantee safety. One must truly know and belong to The Creator, Abba Yah to find true security.
It saddens me to see that the majority of people in this state have snuffed out sound conservative values and voices, pushed the Creator’s blueprint aside and have embraced more and more sinful behaviors, leading to a literal state of instability. Nothing good can come about when you decriminalize DRUGS, promote homosexuality and applaud the transgender crises. The acceptance and encouragement of abominable things in this city far surpasses even the comparison to Sodom and Gomorrah. Abraham and Lot would be shocked 😳
I never bought in to the whole BLM movement, as I knew underneath there was an agenda. It is however ironic to see Black Lives Matter signs displayed in business windows and upper-class neighborhoods, while the majority of Black people I encounter are not found in those areas. When I first saw those signs, I couldn't help but wonder if it was all just a joke.
With all of that being said, I have come to accept that the timing of Yah’s plan for me being here is predestined and I’m right where I need to be. When you come across new life transitions like this, think about all the awesome stuff you've got going on - all the blessings, the love, the warmth, and the guidance from the big OG upstairs. These are the things that really keep you going, you know?
Sheesh, I must say, pouring out all those deep thoughts and emotions in this post was quite a ride. But I’ll wrap things up on a positive note because amidst the city’s decline, the people of Yah are on the RISE! Look here, the date is “officially” official - Mom and I are moving into a bigger place on November 1st and a nicer area - halleluYah! I can't even begin to express how much I'm treasuring every single moment spent with my beautiful mom. This new chapter in our lives has allowed us to get to know each-other better and I’m hopeful about our future family gatherings with everyone. I'll definitely keep you in the loop as this exciting journey unfolds. 🤩😍
You know what's cool about us? I’m talking about me and you, the community here. We never quit, right? We stay positive, keep going strong, and ROLL with YAH till the wheels fall off!
So, here's to new beginnings, cherished moments, and a future filled with blessings. 🥂 Maintain the brightness of your light even in the midst of darkness.
P.S. ✨✨✨✨ A huge shoutout goes to my amazing monthly supporters, those of you who’ve given recently and also showed love picking up some fresh tunes from my website. All I can say is you never cease to amaze me with your solid rock love and generous donations. It is because of your incredible support that I am able to do what I am truly passionate about - creating and sharing good music consistently, that touches your soul and brings glory to almighty Yah! ✨✨✨✨
btw, something G💿💿D 🎶🎤 coming to you soon!
👏🏽 HUGE THANKS 😊
Fumi Grace 🙏🏽❤️
Amy W 🙏🏽❤️
QuavahYah 🙏🏽❤️
Rita B. 🙏🏽❤️
Kameia 🙏🏽❤️
Jontelle 🙏🏽❤️
Darlene 🙏🏽❤️
Jean W🙏🏽❤️
Angelia 🙏🏽❤️
Tianna 🙏🏽❤️
You’re the best! 😇 🙌🏽
Much love,
Octavia
🌹🌱🎶👑
Isaiah 43:18-19
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Staying Positive in the Face of Portland's Decline
Beautiful family Sis, you all resemble. You alrighty know I will be touching down in P.O. next month and I was last there in 2021 and saw the decline. It saddened my heart to see the condition of the neighborhood that I grew up in. Although my Mom and Aunt are still on the same block I was raised on, all of our people were long gone since the early 90's. Gentrification has done a number in our once "so-called" black communities. My Aunt is one of the only few black-owned businesses left in the original neighborhood of Alberta. Of course, they tried to buy her out several times but she remains anchored. She has owned the whole block on 25th and Alberta now for over 20 years "Praise Yah". My Aunt has that no quitter gene too and I admire her strength and yours too Queen O!
Every time I go back home I just try to pour a little love, light and positivity back into the streets. I am curious as to what keeps our people in Portland, Oregon, when so many opportunities have been taken from us. Where does their drive come from? their passion? their resilience? I asked this question because I lost hope for my family and we moved from there in 2019 to Texas. I am not sure if I will ever return to Portland, Oregon but we know with Yah we can never say, "Never". The Most High has appointed this season for you Queen O to add Light into those Portland streets! Our people need HOPE. This system has and is failing our people. As stated, "Our Only True Hope is YAH". We just gotta help the people to see The One and Only TRUE ELOHIM in the midst of all this deception.....but "Let all that we do be done in Love" 1 Corinthians 16:14
I will catch up with you soon Sis and would love to meet your family when I come through!
Very down to earth and heartfelt post. As you were talking about your love for your family and the support they bring to your life, I thought about my own as I have also recently returned to my family in Philadelphia. It does bring a little sadness when you have history in a city and you see it declining, but because Yah is good, He can always help us to find the good in every situation. Portland is not alone in its struggles. I think its more obvious in some places than others, but by Yah's mercy and grace we persevere to be light in darkness as we look to Him to sustain us-the Author and Finisher of our Faith. Peace and Blessing Queen. Thank you for always being a righteous light.