The Jazzy City
Some years ago I took my official first solo trip. It brought me home. Home to a place I had never been but that my ancestors had walked and graced the streets of. I instantly felt connected to New Orleans once I stepped off the plane and walked through the Louis Armstrong International Airport. I was intrigued and invigorated by the jazz music playing in the French Quarter, the smell of the murky wet streets, and lively people prancing around with a pep in their step. In addition, all the French-inspired Haitian architecture embedded in the buildings around the city had me in awe.
I felt alive walking down Canal Street. Sometimes it felt like a spiritual awakening, almost as if spirits were walking alongside me. It felt most prominent when I visited The New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum. The drums, the silent rumbling, and the smell of incense took over me. I was in a trance and paid my respects. Overcome with emotion; I walked out to get fresh air. Then, realizing there was more to see, I walked back in and visited every room. Each room was different, but carried a heavy essence of spiritual forces (Orishas) rooted deeply in the Yoruba culture. I was in good company.
As a vegetarian in the deep south, food options were scarce. But, there was a small vegan soul food spot called Sweet SoulFood NOLA. I ordered vegan jambalaya. What did Beyonce say? Mix that negro with that creole, and bon appetit! The food was so good. It made me wanna slap my momma! But to keep it all the way real, finding that spot was a blessing.
Of course, I had an aerial activity. Attending the pole class was an experience. I connected quickly with other attendees and had a blast. Learned some cool tricks too! One girl asked if she would see me next week, I answered yes despite the fact I had a flight back home two days later.
The city’s magical essence captivated me. Inanimate or animate objects felt real., Everything breathed life into my young spirit. Streets filled with eerie jazz music, unseen spirits, homegrown soul food, and rich historical landscapes filled the city with beauty.
Alhough, it was my first time there. It was as if I was being welcomed home after being away for so long; a homecoming. I found something there, a part of me that had been missing. My essence, my nature, my being, my soul. I found a woman I had been longing for. The pieces of the city filled my cup, and my joy overflowed. The magical city opened a new pathway for this mystical woman and look forward to seeing where her journeys continue to lead her.
