Karasmatic Living

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Reaching out for help

It took me some time to do this, if you know me, you know I am a very proud woman. I take pride in helping others and being a resource whenever possible.

I’m putting my pride to the side because I am in need. If you are not familiar with my journey, I will give you some insight.

In 2018, I was diagnosed with stage IV endometriosis, in addition to already having sickle cell. I spent years in pain, suffering from heavy bleeding and sickle cell crises triggered by blood loss.

In 2024, my symptoms peaked. The endometriosis spread to my intestines and bladder area. I had to get ureter stents to keep the urine from flowing back into my kidneys. In January of 2025, I had a total hysterectomy and a bowel resection that left me with an ileostomy bag for 5 months and had another surgery to reverse the ileostomy this past May. I was also injured during the first surgery and woke up unable to use my right leg. I used a walker for 8 months and am currently on a cane and slowly regaining strength and use of my leg.

During this process, I lost my job and my place of residence. Since that time, I have found another place to live, but I am still supporting myself off just 60% of my working base income.

These health issues have left me with a mountain of unpaid medical bills as well as a hole in my day to day finances.

I have tried everything to avoid reaching out for help including relaunching my business and being a marketing affiliate for various companies, but it has not been enough to fill the void as of yet.

If you are unable to help, I understand, but please keep your comments positive. I have been through enough up to this point and it really took a lot for me to put myself out here in this manner.

Thank you for your help and for sharing this fundraiser. I appreciate you!

The link is here https://gofund.me/1bfff9b9

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A Bottle of Perfume- Lessons in Manifesting…

Summer 2024, I felt like I was at my lowest. Like I had actually hit rock bottom- but I couldn’t let it show. I had once vowed to myself that I would NEVER experience these types of problems again, but life can be funny in the least humurous of ways. Sometimes, things are truly out of our control, though. And that’s where I found myself- out of control when it came to my situation. I had lost both my job and my place of residence because a physician filled out forms wrong, causing my FMLA claim to be denied. Yes, I could appeal (and did), but that took time. I was forced to wait. Collecting unemployment, receiving government benefits, living in a hotel paying half a month’s rent for a week of a room. Yet, I was still grateful. Luckily, I was not alone. I had both my Mom & my younger brother with me. I did not have to split from my family and we did not have to stay with anyone else- a blessing in itself. In the midst of all this, my birthday came. If you know me, you know my birthday is ALWAYS a big deal to me. Not this time. I never felt less celebratory in my life. I went along with the day, though. Accepting well-wishes and gifts. My niece gifted me infused wine- because she really knows her Aunt ;). My nephew gifted me a bottle of Miss Dior. It smelled so amazing. I thought to myself- “I don’t even have a reason to wear this”. Then, I put it on. It’s like a switch went off in my mind. Suddenly, I was reminded of who I am- not just my circumstances at the time. It was also a motivator. I may have even cried. Even at this low, low point in my life- a time when I had forgotten who I was, my nephew still saw me as the same woman who treats herself to nice things. A bottle of perfume reminded me that this situation did not define me. In the months that followed, things started to progress. My health issues started to be resolved, my finances were properly restored. I’m going to do a video on the power of fragrances when it comes to manifestation at a later date so be on the look out for that. In the meantime, I want to remind you that your current situation is not your final destination- things take time, but it gets better.

Peace, Love & Light,

Kara, The Karasmatic One

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Forever Missing You…

This year on June 27th, my only child-Kyle, would be turning 19. If you follow my content, you’re familiar with my journey. If you are new here- feel free to read some past posts to help fill in the blanks.

Typically, during this time of year, I over indulge in unhealthy habits. I cry- a lot. I think of all the things we never got to do. I try my best to close my eyes and imagine my little boy- a grown man?!

This year, I just feel peace. I miss my son every day and the tears still flow. But this year, I don’t wanna get drunk. I don’t want to numb the pain. I am allowing myself to feel my reality and exist in the truth.

Kyle was an amazing son. I spent a lot of time over the last 12 years wondering why me… why MY son. I was given answers to that, I’m not at liberty to share but God has given me what I need to be alright.

No one talks about the survivor’s guilt you feel as a parent, when you lose a child. In the beginning, I felt like I shouldn’t or couldn’t be happy. It felt wrong- how could I be happy when I’m missing the best part of me?

I felt like no one else could possibly understand. Along this journey, I’ve met many grieving parents, all with different experiences. I drew a different inspiration from each one.

My grief journey is FAR from over. I will miss Kyle every single day that I live. I am finally okay now, though. In my reality, in my truth, without sedation.

I want to encourage grieving parents. There are no words I can offer to soothe your pain- other than the truth. The truth is: you will smile again, you will feel lighter, and you’ll never forget your baby!

Peace, Love & Light

Kara (The Karasmatic One)

Always be my baby

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Black Faces In White Spaces

“The black skin is not a badge of shame, but rather a glorious symbol of national greatness.”

— Marcus Garvey

If you are a black person working in just about any field in America- you will understand this piece. My hope in writing this is that you will feel seen, heard, and validated in your feelings. As many of you know- I take pride in my culture. I love being a black woman & I speak on the black experience in America often. There is so much dopeness in being born black. We are rhythm, intelligence, grace, and wisdom. There is a regal aura whenever we enter a space. That aura alone intimidates many. Then, when we see each other out, there’s the unspoken comradery. That look you give one another that says “I got you!”. Can we just speak on the exhaustion though? The fatigue that comes from each work shift, especially if you are the only black person in your department. You know the microaggressions, assumptions, cultural biases, the wanting to know your thoughts on every police-involved shooting. Or my personal favorite, conversations regarding issues in the black community. Everyone wants you to know they’re an “allie”. Until they talk and begin to tell you all about their white privilege without intending to. You hear it all day in the workplace- stories about how they talked back to the police- and lived to speak about it. Meanwhile, all you hear is your family would have had to march for you and create a hashtag. To be the only black person in your workspace is to constantly be on display for observation. Your white counterparts attempt to use you as a glossary for slang terms. Black men are expected to know all the latest hip-hop songs and be players. They couldn’t possibly just have a wife and children at home, right? Right. People who never dap anyone in their day-to-day are inclined to “give them a pound” instead of just shaking their hands like the respectable men they are. All of a sudden it’s ‘my man’, ‘bro’, or ‘brother’… Just act normal!!!! The endless questions about hair- or the notion that if you have length of any sort- it just can’t possibly be yours, right? The constant use of “girl” and “girlfriend” but just when interacting with you, the black coworker. And then there are the more subtle remarks, that you ‘shouldn’t take offense to’- For example: If I tell you my name is Kara, why would you then, in turn, refer to me as La’tara??? As a black woman, should my name be more complex? If I walked up to you and called you Becky, Sara, or Susan off assumption especially after you clearly stated your name- then I would be culturally insensitive too, right? Or as they say ‘reverse racism’ (which is NOT a thing). And back to the hair- LEAVE BLACK PEOPLE’S HAIR ALONE!!!!! We never ask to touch your hair, if it’s real, or anything degrading like that. Just stop it. You wouldn’t walk up and touch someone’s butt- don’t do it to their hair, a body part is a body part.

It felt so good to just get that off my chest.

To my Black people reading this, finding yourself trapped in white spaces for survival- be encouraged. It is okay to have boundaries. You are not responsible for educating the ignorant on your culture. You are not obligated to let them into your world or culture. You do not owe them your blackness. I know the avatar gets tired and you want to explode some days, but don’t. You got this! You are capable, intelligent, and most of all BLACK! What’s doper than that?

Until next time…

Peace, Love, and Light

Kara (The Karasmatic One)

Check out http://www.karasmaticliving.com/shop for all your spiritual wellness needs. Use Code Fall23 & save 20% on your order over $23, offer ends 10/23/2023.

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Grace

“Expect Humans To Be Human”- Keith A. Anderson

When my Pops made this statement, I don’t believe he imagined the impact it would have on my life or how I would carry it with me. Truthfully, I don’t think I did either, nor do I recall why he said it to me in the first place. However, it has been a life-changing piece of advice.

I remember when I would get so frustrated when people didn’t measure up to the idea I created for them in my mind. Whether it was a friendship or a partner- I learned to expect humans to be human. This doesn’t mean lacking boundaries or excusing poor behavior, but it does mean operating with a measure of compassion.

Many times, we find ourselves disappointed because we’ve placed people in our lives in superhuman positions- parents, spouses, siblings… ALL HUMAN. So expect them to make mistakes, to miss the mark sometimes, and to do things you may not understand.

Apply this to yourself as well & give yourself grace. We’re all just humans, experiencing life and trying to be the best version of ourselves possible.

As always, thank you so much for sharing time with me!

Peace, Love & Light,

Kara (The Karasmatic)

Please checkout http://www.karasmaticliving.com/ols/all for all your favorites!

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An Update from Karasmatic Living

Hello Family, Friends, and Supporters. I know it has been a while since you’ve heard from me… so I just wanted to post an update. Happy New Year- 2022 has been off to an amazing start. In addition to a successful retail website, KL has been vending local events, and we’ve ventured into social media management as well. The biggest announcement is- I am now a published author. My first release is titled “Fearless An Affirmations for Success Journal”. It is now available for pre-order on Amazon. Get your copy here. https://www.amazon.com/FEARLESS-Affirmations-Journal-Kara-Danielle/dp/B09RNPBN1C/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1643981575&sr=1-1 The ebook will also be available for download on the karasmaticliving.com website- February 7, 2022. I hope you enjoy this project as it will be the first of many. Also, please take advantage of 35% off http://www.karasmaticliving.com/ols/all for the entire month of February, in honor of Black History Month. Thank you all so much for your continued support. I will be back soon with more of the posts you look forward to.

Peace, Love, and Light

Kara ( The Karasmatic)

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JUNETEENTH- Not New At All.

I would like to start this post by saying Happy Juneteenth to my Black readers! I am so excited to see so many of us embracing our history… that’s not the purpose of this piece though. I see mixed reactions to this federal holiday & here are MY thoughts (buckle up, buttercup!)

Black people have NEVER needed permission to celebrate Juneteenth (the legal ‘abolition’ of slavery) we’ve done so for many years amongst ourselves. We’ve gotten our gear from one another and enjoyed this holiday as a day for the black community exclusively.

Many people do not know this, but at the end of slavery, slave masters were given monetary reparations for their ‘lost property’ (our ancestors). Now, fast forward to 2021, the US government has now given their descendants a paid day off. I do not like the idea of non-black people celebrating or benefiting from this day. Look at what white america does for Cinco De Mayo (a slaughter of their own ancestors but that’s a different conversation). You’ll see them in sombreros, and engaging in other stereotypical antics, completely disrespecting the Mexican culture.

I think at my core, the real frustration is the fact we simply asked to not be discriminated against, to stop racial profiling and police murdering us… prison reform. Where is the hate crime bill for black people? This country has a habit of pacifying black people with small gestures like this instead of dealing with the real problem- white supremacy.

This piece was not meant to discourage any black person from celebrating Juneteenth- it’s for us! I just want us to remain aware and united! Do not let these small acts of pacification make you forget the daily fight for equality and human rights for black people in America.

I love US for real!

Peace, Love & Light,

The Karasmatic One

Ways to keep Juneteenth Black:

Celebrate at home or at a black owned establishment.
Buy shirts, decorations, gifts, etc from black owned businesses. Disregard corporate Juneteenth promotions- they’ll be everywhere now.
Educate the children as to what & why we celebrate.
Your guest list.
Attend events/shows given by local black community groups/associations.

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Assigned NOT Designed

Realizing it was never love,

He was just on assignment,

Assigned to be and ensure the demise of she,

But her enemy never considered the divine energy & entity which awakened,

She saved herself,

Woke up one day questioning everything & everyone…

Who put the stars up there- wait, what about the sun?

When he could no longer reach her, he would take on new forms,

Sharpening his skill, he’d approach her again,

Except this time she didn’t have the same taste in men,

She’d done the work,

Learned her worth,

Knowing herself now as Queen- Mother Earth,

His charms no longer worked,

When they locked eyes there was no soul reflection,
No desire to be what he sees as perfection,

Powerless, he faded away.

He was assigned,

He was never designed to stay.

Thank you so much for sharing your time with me! I appreciate the love and support!

Peace, Love & Light,

Kara (The Karasmatic)

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Black Men, WE Appreciate You!

In the wake of recent events, I feel compelled to make an edit to the original written piece I’d prepared. Initially, I wrote this in February 2020. I would like to dedicate this piece to all of the Black Men & Women whose lives were abruptly ended by police brutality. We must keep fighting, stay strong & love one another!

Since being introduced to the white man, Black men have been portrayed in a terrible light by them. Often being called and associated with derogatory terms and negative stereotypes- I initially listed a few, but we know them & give no life to that energy here. Black men are actually peaceful, protectors & strong minded. Yes, they smile, but with those they’re most comfortable with. Black men are innovative, resourceful and creative- which helps them rise beyond the limits America attempts to place on them.

Growing up, I remember walking through my neighborhood. If I saw a Black man, I knew I was secure. The men in the community were vigilant- they loved and cared for their families so they kept a watchful eye. The only violence I have ever observed firsthand was either in defense of self or a loved one. I have had the blessing of knowing men who literally died protecting their loved ones. Not overseas at war, but right here on American soil.

In a system designed for their failure, Black men have managed to create their own lanes. A number of Black men are entrepreneurs, educated and active in their communities. The media rarely shines a light on this because it contradicts centuries of lies.

I could really speak on this topic all day! The reality is, it is not spoken on nearly enough. Meanwhile, there is a war on our men: to take them from school system to prison system or some branch of service. Unless, of course, they entertain the masses in some form or accept a label that in some way weakens the invisible “threat” of their blackness. I plan to speak deeper on that subject at another time.

Right now, I would like to just take a moment to appreciate the presence and importance of Black men everywhere. I believe one of the most beautiful things in this world is the smile of a Black man! I wanted to capture a gallery of photos on my own but COVID-19 had other plans. I was, however, able to get participation from my friends online all across the country! Thank you all so much for your contributions & a special thank you to the Johnson Family for your photos as well. I really hope you all enjoy! I’m also adding some links to help us see progress for the future of Black People in America.

Peace, Love & Light

Kara (The Karasmatic)

*All photographs courtesy of Facebook/Used with consent*

*I do not own the rights to music/ video*

Ways To Support Change:

1. https://www.justiceforbigfloyd.com

2. https://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/649/046/819/?taf_id=64001717&cid=fb_na

3. http://www.untilfreedom.com

4. http://www.webuyblack.com

5. https://www.nracarryguard.com/resources/gun-laws-by-state/

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15 Lessons My Grief Taught Me (so far)

As a grieving Mother of almost 7 years now (that felt weird to even type) , I’ve learned several lessons along this path. Nothing can prepare you for the loss of a loved one- I don’t care how much warning or time you had to digest it- in that moment, it hurts. It doesn’t end there either. After the funeral goers leave, you are left with a new normal. Sorting that out and finding out what that means is not an easy process for anyone. I definitely do not have it all figured out, but here are some things I’ve learned and would like to share.

I am stronger than I could have ever imagined.
Change is constant.
Appreciate the people in your life while they can feel it.
People know you’re vulnerable- be mindful.
Not everyone will know how to approach you or remain friends after your loss.
Your tribe will be revealed, if they haven’t already!
Detach immediately from draining situations- healing is your priority.
No one survives a great loss alone- utilize your support system.
Grief is a life long process.
Time does not heal, but it helps with the adjustments.
Give yourself time with everything-especially decision making.
There will always be reminders of the past- embrace them.
You will have random break downs, allow yourself to feel.
Talk out loud to your loved one- you’d be surprised at the confirmations you receive.
Find positive ways to honor your loved one.

I’ve attached a few of my favorite shots of my baby boy… honoring his life always!

Thank again for reading my blog!

Please like, share and subscribe

Love, light and many blessings!

Kara (The Karasmatic)

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Why can’t I celebrate MY blackness?

“Blackness remains the coat you can’t take off”- Clint Smith

As a young girl, I never really liked my own complexion. I came from an extended family that was “all mixed up”- every shade you could think of, we have it- mine being one of the more uncommon tones. I noticed very early on that when it came to the elders, the darker of us did not receive the same praise or compliments on “being pretty” or having “good hair” as some of my lighter skinned cousins. I even remember one incident that really effected me for some years to come. Picture being a young girl, playing in toy make up with your cousins, and one of them turns to you- just as you found your lipstick match and says “you can’t wear that color (pink) isn’t for black girls”. We couldn’t have been more than 7 years old at the time. I know now that when children say these things, it is usually from hearing adults talk.

To be completely honest, I never thought about my skin tone, until adults made it a point to say things like “oooh you gettin’ black” in the summer or “you better stay out that sun girl!”. Prior to that, I actually loved my ‘summer color’. I loved the way the sun died my hair red and even blonde in some places, during the summer. I felt like this combination made me look superhuman (my imagination was wild, even back then).

As the years progressed, I believe my Mother noticed the effects of interactions with the extended family on myself and my younger sister, because she always reassured us of our beauty. She would buy us dolls who looked like us and taught us the real history of our people in this country. My Aunt (my Father’s sister) was also very instrumental in me loving myself as a black woman and being proud of my features. The music I grew up listening to also prompted self actualization.

I was always exposed to good music- real music! I took a liking to OutKast, Goodie MOB and Erykah Badu, their music dropped too many keys to discovering who I really am as a black woman- concepts like Kemet, the ankh and brown skin being a blessing. These artist sewed seeds that I would later water and manifest through my own research and experiences. I learned that not only is my skin a gift, people are paying thousands of dollars for features and gifts I was already given naturally.

So, I ask you: Why can’t I- a black woman who had to learn to love and accept my own greatness- celebrate MY blackness? So many fought, died and are still fighting daily for the right to live while black in America. Our hairstyles get banned, our music, our bodies both hunted and appropriated. So much of this is endured, so that little black children will know they are beautiful, they do matter and it is okay to love yourself. See, ‘black love’ or ‘black power’ do not equal ‘white hate’ in any way shape or fashion. So today, and everyday there after, I encourage all of my brothers and sisters who are reading this to love and celebrate YOUR blackness… it is not only a gift, melanin is POWER!

A young Kara (& my sister Tiffane) I will never understand how people don’t see the beauty in our beautiful brown babies!

Peace, love & light

Kara (The Karasmatic)

*Video courtesy of youtube, I do not own rights to this music*

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Justice?

“The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.”

-Coretta Scott King

Imagine growing up in a place- watching that place go through all of of its changes… from a strong family based community, to the crack epidemic, through the “war on drugs”, new aged pills and international influence tearing that place apart. Seeing and living in the aftermath daily. Managing to free yourself from the toils of that life and using that same determination to STAY and make a difference. You provide and become a resource for that community- investing in the children, creating outlets for up and coming talent and making sure the children are set to succeed. Only to be viscously beaten by police who are paid by the community to protect… the community. As nightmarish as this sounds, it happened- in 2019… right here in these “United States”

I read these stories online all the time, and the narrative is typically an unarmed black man killed by police, there are marches and riots. The officer goes free and we add that person’s name to list of hashtags and names cried out at future rallies.

On October 1st, 2019, a friend I know personally made a post, which I will reference shortly and reality hit harder than it ever has. Marcus Randle- a man who despite his past, is now not just an upstanding but an outstanding citizen- found himself to be in a position to survive police brutality. I will warn you, the pictures are graphic. This particular officer has a history of terrorizing black men in the community and has yet to be stopped.

“I guess this is “what serving & protecting” looks like in N. Aurora & Aurora Illinois if Officers ask u to exit a vehicle because u mke an improper lane change & u excerise ur right to not exit vehicle! Or in my case just happen to be a passenger who can’t give u permission anyway! My background is fucked up already & so should the officers (Officer Vogiatzis #378) who did this & any officer who stood by & watched a crime being comitted by his colleagues! APD you picked the right guy this time! The “gang unit” operates worse than the street gangs! You tasered my friend Jersey Greene to death on March 13, 2012! I will keep that in mind as we begin these court proceedings you can mark my words on that! You tasered my brother lastweekend while he was on the ground with his hands behind his back & I thank God he is still here to fight this battle with me!”

-Marcus Randle (survivor of police brutality)

There was also a witness present, this young lady courageously remained vigilant before also becoming violated by the police in this incident- the witness account follows:

“An officer (badge #378) of Aurora PD, Illinois. name: VOGIATZIS snatched my phone out of my hands without asking while I was recording a situation. I was not interfering, merely standing on the sidewalk and I did shout outloud that I was recording. VOGIATZIS claimed my phone was evidence and told me that I could not get my phone back. I told him “I want my phone back” multiple times and he denied. VOGIATZIS said he had to take it back to station for evidence or get a warrant if I said no to unlocking it – but either way he said he was taking the phone. He coerced me into giving my personal information and the passcode because he claimed I would be obstructing and said something vague about jail. I did give them my info because I was intimidated. Now I have no phone. And I believe that was violation of my rights, my person, and my property…

This is a conversation we need to have. I believe innocent videotaping should not be in the jurisdiction of officers.. I understand their concerns of me having something that could be a weapon – but the phone was ripped from my hands and the recording was ceased against my will.”

-Witness statement

“On Sat., Sept. 28 2019 in N. Aurora a member of our community (Marcus I. Randle) who has been a pillar in advocating & mentoring at risk & underprivileged youth was a victim of the AURORA POLICE S.O.G. UNIT Officer Vogiatzis #378! After being detained for a misdemeanor obstruction of justice/resisting arrest charge the Aurora officer previously stated rolled Mr. Randle over forcefully into a sitting position while handcuffed behind his back & struck Mr. Randle with an object fracturing his optimal bone under his right eye & caused a laceration to his nose & eye. It was all captured on film by a near by pedestrian.“(Excerpt from petition statement)

Not only did the police in Aurora use excessive force, they manipulated a situation and attempted to themselves- obstruct justice. I can honestly say, I am grateful my friend, Mr. Randle is NOT a hashtag or a victim- but a survivor! He is here to not only to continue the work he has already begun in the community, but also here with a new assignment. It takes great courage to speak up against the largest gang in the country & stand against injustice. Because he is still here, he can inspire others to speak up, raise awareness and make the police take accountability for their actions.

This could easily be you, your son or daughter… maybe even a parent. If you would like to be a part of the change and see justice done in this particular case; you can sign the petition (link below), share the link and share this story!

https://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/649/046/819/?taf_id=64001717&cid=fb_na

To see justice served in your community and be a part of change- remain vigilant, as a community we all must look out for each other.

“You can’t separate peace from freedom because no one can be at peace unless he has his freedom”

-Malcolm X

America, we have a long way to go!

Peace, love and light

-Kara (The Karasmatic)

Releasing With Love…

It’s been a while since I used this platform. Not because I don’t love y’all- I just tend to do video more these days. Follow me on socials @karasmaticliving to stay updated and connect more frequently! That’s not why I’m here, though.

The last time I checked in here, I was really going through a lot, and I appreciate the response I received. The love was overwhelming and affirming all at once. Since our last “chat”, I turned 40, officially got legally divorced (the chronicles are coming, one thing at a time).

Let me start by saying, as a Sickle Cell Warrior, I never gave my 40s much thought. I hoped to be here, but it was never something I visualized. Now that I’m here, I have so much clarity. I have survived so much in my life already. If you’re new here- I am a grieving mother, survivor of stage 4 Endometriosis, and just an overall alchemist. One of my greatest gifts is being able to transmute negative energy & make it work for my good every time, and I am so grateful for that.

I think one of my best lessons since turning 40 has been learning to release, with love. It sounds simple enough, but I am woman enough to admit that my separation did not always come with peace and well wishes. I love hard, and I value the people in my life. I only ask for the same in return, and when I don’t get that, I really used to take it personally. I’ve now learned not to internalize other people’s actions. A lot of the time, we are experiencing people through their trauma, their drama, misery, depression, and all other types of factors- RELEASE THEM WITH LOVE!!!!! Wish them the healing and peace they need and disconnect.

I once was of the mindset that issues HAD to be resolved in order to move forward, but in reality- all you have to do is move forward. Everyone is not meant to be on your journey for the entire journey! Your vision and plan are not dependent on their presence- go forward!!!!

This transformation has also required isolation. The thing about isolation is that it can be misinterpreted. Especially if you were outgoing before. What I have learned about “isolation” is that it is truly self-exploration. Being alone, I tap into creativity and alignment without distraction. I can orchestrate my entire world- the music, the food, the level of lighting, and tailor it to what I need for blooming. Sometimes, a lack of boundaries & time with ourselves creates stagnation.

Turning 40 has also allowed me to tap into glamour and sensuality. As abstinent as I am, I still like to feel sexy. This means dressing for where I want to be in life, not where I am. Not saving “good clothes” for special occasions. I am much more intentional about self-care; my skincare, hygiene, nail care are all non-negotiable priorities… like if your event coincides with my rituals, I just can’t make it.

After fighting for my life, things were put into perspective. Aside from my Mom, I sat in the hospital alone. When I came home, it was my Mom who changed the ileostomy bag, took me to my appointments, stayed up with me when I cried and wanted to give up. I realized then and even now in my recovery, I have myself and a handful of people I can physically rely on. It was this that made me stop overplaying my part and keep the energy and resources I do have for myself and those who reciprocate. I am still on a cane, going to physical therapy twice a week, and living on one monthly amount of income until I am cleared for the workforce. This has challenged me to prioritize my health and healing.

I guess you can say this is my “selfish” era. After years of wanting to pour into others and help them grow- even through my own pain. I have said FUCK THAT and decided to choose myself and do whatever makes me happy. I hope you do the same. I hope you grow to a point where your main focus is being the best version of yourself. It’s great to be a good friend and reliable to the people you can rely on- this isn’t about those people. I’m talking about the hangers-on. The ones only staying connected to see if you fail or try to steal your next idea. The people who smile in your face & call you “Sis” but secretly talk about you behind your back. You know who they are; your nervous system rejects them; stop ignoring that. It may even hurt, but I promise that staying connected to them only hurts you more in the long run. My Mom has always said, “while people are talking about you, they’re doing whatever they want to do”. This always stuck with me and has been proving true– time and time again.

I also got some reinforced knowledge & that is- the principal matters to me a lot! We can be friends and have different views on some things, like which way the toilet roll goes. However, when it comes to Black people, Organic Content creation and other topics of integrity- I feel like some things are character flaws. Evolution should come with enlightenment.

It is okay to outgrow connections. I release people with love, hoping nothing but the best for them. I trust their purpose in my life has been served, and I look forward to the new people I will meet.

I’m only in the first year of my 40s, but I am looking forward to the ride. I am ready for the new customers, new opportunities, fitness, wellness, expansion and elevation. This is the timeline where dreams come true & I am so grateful for that.

Thank you for taking the time to read my blog. You can find crystals, sage, oils, herbs, and so much more at https://www.karasmaticliving.com/shop

Peace, Love & Light

Kara The Karasmatic One aka Ms Lotus Thee Enchantress

Hoodoo Woman (a poem)

I’m a hoodoo woman,

I got hoodoo bones,

I’m a hoodoo woman,

Let me sing my song,

This mojo different!

I’m black and I’m gifted,

My DNA remembers,

All protected- I can help you too!

Don’t let my bad side be the death of you.

I’m a hoodoo woman, conjuring all the way.

When it comes to me, spirit don’t play!

From the words I speak, to that food you eat-

Yes, I’m a hoodoo woman.

You ever felt that itch in your palm- then money was received?

Ever poured out liquor for your deceased?

And when you eat them New Years Black eye peas- oh baby, you hoodoo like me!

I’m a proud conjure woman!

MY ancestors are pleased with ME!

I couldn’t care less what this world thinks of me.

I got power in my touch,

Wisdom in my mind,

Love in my heart,

With the divine as my guide,

Working with nature,

As God so intended.

I am a hoodoo woman,

From start to finish.

Return of the… I’ll let you finish that 💜

Hello! Hello! Helllooooo!!!!

I’m so happy to be back in my zone and doing what I love. I’m making it a point to get back in tune with those of you who have supported me from day 1- the readers.

WordPress was originally an outlet… a sounding board for my healing journey and to just get certain things off of me.

Then it grew, it became a creative space and healing place for myself as well as those reading. I just wanted to make it known I appreciate you all!

I’m looking forward to an amazing rest of the year. Karasmatic Living is back online! I’m gradually rolling out products and services. I wanted to do it all at once but spirit said- take it slow.

I cannot wait to share all of the amazing things I’ve been working on during this hiatus, but I promise every single release will be worth the anticipation…. including my next book 🥰

As always, I appreciate you all for taking the time out to give me a read.

Peace, Love, & Light,

Kara (The Karasmatic)

35 Lessons over 35 years

I was initially supposed to publish this on my birthday, (9/8, virgo season whoop whoop!) , however, if you follow my socials then you know I’ve been working like crazy! Ok, ok… I’ve done some celebrating too. Each year, I like to reassess my growth, as well as show gratitude for the lessons learned- no matter how simple they may seem.

Accept things at face value- people, situations, jobs… far too often we try to mold situations into our own vision. Even after they’ve shown us the truth- stop that!
Overthinking steals your joy!
Not every connection is a permanent connection- be happy when seasonal people fall off.
What works for one person may not work for another and this is fine. It doesn’t make either person wrong.
Letting go may be hard but it is FUN!!!! Embrace the changes that come with freeing yourself from dead weight situations.
Real friendship has no expiration date.
Meat is overrated.
Tampons are the devil! (research)
No one “needs a perm (relaxer)”.
Trust your intuition.
Thoughts shape reality- control your mind.
Bad things happen to good people, push through!
Express love freely & unapologetically, you never know when it will be too late to do so.
Fresh fruit & vegetables are liiiife!!!!
You can have anything you’re willing to work for in life.
Love is an inside job.
If you’re not happy with yourself, you won’t be happy in a relationship.
Good music doesn’t get old, just better to the soul.
You can learn a lot of real life lessons by listening to children.
Life’s best moments cost absolutely nothing.
Being an adult doesn’t have to be exhausting or stressful.
There are many roads to success- not just college.
Family is important- more important than most things in this life.
Wealth is quiet.
Dancing is therapy.
Always bet on YOU!
Good movies were made to be watched more than once.
Soy is terrible for women.
People never forget how you made them feel.
Laughter is contagious.
Smiles are universal.
Investments are necessary.
Fear only exists in the mind.
Time does not heal all wounds, but it can allow you a space to find your “new normal” after trauma.
Life is a gift!

Thank you so much for sharing this time with me as I reflect on some of life’s little lessons. I hope you enjoyed this read & I wish you prosperity and abundance.

Peace, Love, & Light,

Kara (The Karasmatic)