What's it to you?

As I approach the 8-month mark of being natural, I have to stop and think about what this journey has meant to me. It has taught me so much about myself in such a short time. Or, as my husband puts it, freed me.

At the time, I didn't realize I was enslaved! But it makes sense when you think about it. Not being able to exercise because you don't want to "sweat my perm out" or go out in the rain, or the infamous head pat in the days before it's time for a touch-up. These are things I don't have to worry about anymore.

Being natural has given me the can-do attitude I needed to get in the gym and work hard to shed a few pounds. It has allowed me to explore creativity through accessories, something I really didn't give much thought to in the past. I've had more people tell me they like my "style" in the past 8 months than I have in my entire life. Who knew I had a style!

Don't get me wrong, there are still things that I worry about. Sometimes I forget that I'm natural and that when people meet me for the first time I may not look exactly as they pictured. Or if they haven't seen me in a while, they might be taken aback. And I still haven't figured out the perfect style or been really good with trying new products. But I haven't gotten any rude comments like some people I know, so that's a good thing. Plus, I see it as an opportunity to encourage other women to take this courageous step. I've found there are many who want to, but naturally, they're apprehensive. When you see someone else proudly rockin their 'fro you think, 'Ok I can do it, too.' And really, that's the biggest gift of all.

My hubby still asks me how long I'm going to keep my hair this way. I try to explain that this isn't a phase but I don't think he understands. Perhaps because as women we change our look so often. Honestly, I'm not sure if I will be natural forever but I do know that I have no plans to change my hair anytime soon. I love the person I've transformed into in such a short time and wouldn't want things any other way!