I once managed a historical jazz restaurant in Harlem. And one night, a party of about five women who were probably in their sixties arrived for what seemed to have been a special celebration of sorts. I approached an older woman who appeared to be the leader or the group to compliment her beautiful ensemble. She must have been a foot shorter than me, yet her presence was so tall and powerful. We exchanged a few nice words, and as I was about to ask her about the occasion, she grabbed my shoulders and straightened my body. I didn’t realize I was slouching so much as I lowered myself to talk to her. She said, “Darling, don’t you lower yourself for anyone. You hear me? Stand tall, you can’t let all this good height go to waste.” She said it with so much certainty and kindness. Her smile comforted me and washed me with a wave the confident she carried around so effortlessly. That small exchange in the crowded, dark restaurant on that busy Friday night changed so many things about my future interactions. I think about her powerful calmness whenever I feel nervous going into anything. And so I share these words with you too. Stand tall. No matter what. No matter where. ⁠ Ps, these party pants and bodysuit was from @express, and I love them so much! #ExpressPartner #ExpressLife http://liketk.it/2CYi1 #liketkit @liketoknow.it