Nice is as Nice does...

On Sunday, in church, which by the way creates a pretty decent backdrop for deep thoughts, I started thinking about college and all the things I used to do to occupy my time, and a lot of consisted of doing nice things for my friends and strangers, it was a big part of my life, no holiday/birthday/valentines passed by without everyone receiving a gift, I called people often just to check up on them etc

Now, I always proudly define myself as a nice person, likable, personable and people have often taken advantage of it as I discussed in this post, but i can't let that change me, maybe be more cautious but still. Nice is as nice does and I can't claim to be a nice person if I don't act that way.

Basically I've slacked, and I value this part of my personality too much to let it fade away. Being in Lagos makes it so much harder because there's so much to be mad about, to despair but that even makes it more important to be nice, and kind.

This is an inward reflection on my personality but if it in the least bit inspires you to be kinder, I'll be really happy!

Oh happy holidays!

P.s did i mention that I teach english at a secondary school, well my friend Leke took this Photo of me check it out -> http://imperialmedia.shutterchance.com/image/2011/12/19/abraham-lincolns-letter-to-his-sons-teacher/


Love and Kindness
Sabirah

Love to Music

I always dreamt that I would fall in love with a musician...

That he would play the sax and he would be all afro-beat-y

And my heart would beat to the rhythm of his drums,

My hips to his guttural voice,

And that when we made love, it was his music that would play as I climbed higher and higher.

That we would travel together and share this music, the music of our love, the music of us.

But it would never be enough,

Because the music would eventually take over,

Consume us,

I would break free,

He would need me,

I would let go.

And the music would be the only thing that would ever soothe his soul.

Little something I wrote a couple of weeks ago.

Love and freedom

Sabirah.

Music | Lagoooos Jump!

Lagos has been interesting and I remember one of my concerns when I first arrived was not fitting in socially. The scene seemed different than I expected and there was this overwhelming sense of pretentiousness everywhere that I felt I didn't want to be part of.

Over the next couple of weeks I was occupied with catching up with friends, a heavy bout of Malaria which knocked me out for eight days straight and a couple of rather pleasant dates. I can't say the overwhelming air of pretentiousness faded away but I came to a realization that I wasn't and didn't necessarily need to try and fit into any social scene.

A lot of the type of events I used to go to in California like art exhibitions, book readings, wine tastings etc are open to every one but in Lagos while they are open to everyone it's obvious that a lot of people come not to enjoy the art but as some kind of status label. To be honest it's not my business, I've come to realize it's up to me to live and enjoy my life as I please.

Soon after this realization, I saw a flyer for an event "Ade Bantu Live @ The Life house" I was faintly acquainted with him and if you know me you know I LOVE afrobeat so I didn't need to be told twice. I decided to invite my parents, because they both love music and my Dad is the reason I love Afrobeat so much. Best decision ever!

Me dolled up for the show

Apologies for the bad quality but here's what I wore

My amazing parents who came separately and ended up matching! too cute. They had such a great time!

 Ade Bantu on the far right :)

The oh-so amazing drummer. peep the cool Fela painting behind. :)

Jamming!

dancing :)

It was absolutely amazing, I really can't explain it! The Bantu crew was just, sigh. Ade Bantu and his 12 piece live band gave it everything! considering the small space. I was too happy.

Some videos, although nothing can really come close to the live performance!

Love and afrobeat,
Sabirah