In The ZOUD

7 Things My Mother Gave Me: Day 7 - Substance

In the final episode of the 7 Things My Mother Gave Me series, I reflect on one of the Jamaican sayings my mother often used to remind us about the difference between noise and substance. “Empty barrel mek di most noise.” Literally, it means that an empty barrel makes the most noise. Behind the saying is a deeper lesson: the loudest voices are not always the ones with the greatest substance. Real influence is often revealed not by how loudly we speak, but by the depth of our character, the intention behind our actions, and the value we bring to others. In this closing reflection, I explore how this proverb connects to the wisdom my mother shared throughout my childhood—and how those lessons continue to shape how I think about progress, relationships, resilience, and the character we build over time. Because sometimes the most meaningful wisdom we inherit is not material at all - but the principles that guide how we live.

7 Things My Mother Gave Me: Day 6 - Humility

In Day 6 of the 7 Things My Mother Gave Me series, I reflect on a Jamaican proverb my mother once used in a moment I will never forget. “Di higher di monkey climb, di more im expose.” Literally, it means that the higher the monkey climbs, the more it exposes itself. Behind the saying is a powerful reminder: the higher we rise in life—whether in leadership, visibility, or influence - the more our character becomes visible to others. In this reflection, I explore how success and opportunity bring not only recognition, but responsibility, and why humility and integrity matter even more the higher we go. Because sometimes the greatest test of character comes not when we are struggling - but when we are succeeding.

7 Things My Mother Gave Me: Day 5 - Strength

In Day 5 of the 7 Things My Mother Gave Me series, I reflect on one of my favourite Jamaican proverbs my mother often used when I came to her with a problem. “Wen chubble kech yuh, pikni shut fit yuh.” Literally, it means that when trouble catches you, even a child’s shirt will fit you. Behind the humour of the saying is a powerful reminder: in difficult moments, we often discover strength we didn’t know we had. In this reflection, I explore how challenges can reveal resilience and courage we may not have realised were within us—and how the strength we gain through our struggles can become something we share with others.

7 Things My Mother Gave Me: Day 4 - Guidance

n Day 4 of the 7 Things My Mother Gave Me series, I reflect on a Jamaican proverb my mother often used - one that took on deeper meaning when I became a mother myself. Growing up as the youngest of five children in a family spanning five generations, I heard this saying many times. But only later did I understand its meaning. The proverb speaks to the importance of shaping values early—while character and habits are still forming. In this reflection, I explore the responsibility we have in guiding the next generation and instilling the values they will carry throughout their lives.

7 Things My Mother Gave Me: Day 3 - Discernment

In Day 3 of the 7 Things My Mother Gave Me series for International Women’s Day, I reflect on another Jamaican proverb my mother often used while I was growing up: “Wha sweet nanny goat ah go run im belly.” What tastes sweet to the goat today will upset its stomach tomorrow. For a long time, I didn’t fully understand what she meant. But over time, I began to see the wisdom behind it. This proverb reminds us that what feels like the best choice in the moment is not always the one that leads to the best outcome later. Some decisions that seem appealing today can carry consequences we only recognize with time. In this reflection, I explore how discernment helps us look beyond immediate comfort and consider the longer-term impact of our choices. Because sometimes the most important question is not what feels good now, but what will truly serve us - and others -later.