You, my friend, are so gracious! One of the things I appreciate the most about you, even from this distance, is something that is nowadays becoming an all too rare trait for most humans: the authentic ability to humbly acknowledge others through the abundant generosity of your spirit. I am certain the friends you have, with whom you are physically in closest proximity to, see you as one of their kindest, most genuine and soulful relations. You, my friend, are a rare soul and a true light for this world. May you continue to shine. i’m grateful for you.
What a brilliant concept, from an equally brilliant you!
First off, you were part of the construction team for the apartment building you live in? That’s incredible. I always forget that people have entire lives outside of writing on Substack. You are truly a multi-talented human being, and I see you. I loved hearing about the moments you’ve been replaying this year. It got me thinking about my own Spotify Life-Wrapped, so I’ll share a few highlights below.
This year, my family trip to Saudi Arabia was, without question, a week I’ll always have on replay. Nothing compares to the feeling of seeing the Kaaba for the first time. It was completely surreal. The trip gave me the emotional reset and spiritual purification I didn’t even realize I needed.
Another top moment? My birthday game night. Let me back up—I had planned a pickleball party (classic me), but after a dry summer, of course hurricane Debbie rolled in on my birthday week with torrential rain. We had to pivot to a game night, and honestly, I was nervous about it coming together. But it turned out to be perfect. Friends from all parts of my life—childhood, college, and new connections—came together. A friend even said, “You have the most diverse friend group I’ve ever seen!” That stuck with me. We ate pizza from my favorite Brooklyn spot, laughed until we cried, and had the best time. The next day, my childhood friend and I flew to Cabo for a week of pure bliss..picking fresh vegetables and fruits on the farm we stayed on, swimming in crystal clear waters, and reconnecting like no time had passed. The week after, I got to spend another week at the beach in NC with my family, a tradition we really cherish.
I’m grateful for a magical year. Thank you for sharing and inspiring me to reflect on all these moments that made this year unforgettable.
you know, when I first started reading your comment, I had no idea I was in for such a treat. I honestly thought it was just going to be one of those comments where someone says something nice in two or three lines and then leaves. But wow, the way you processed everything—it feels like this could easily be an essay of its own.
first, I just want to thank you for seeing me. Sometimes, in the moment, we don’t realize how we’re setting ourselves up for something beautiful. I feel so grateful to have been part of the process of constructing the place I now call home. What a story, right?
i also relate to what you mentioned about writing on Substack not being a full-time thing for most of us. I often find myself curious about what people do outside of writing. It amazes me how brilliant minds like yours can carve out time, whether it’s after work or during brief windows of downtime, to create something so meaningful on here.
your trip to the Kaaba, that’s such a beautiful experience to share with your family! Were there lots of people there when you went? Was it more of a sightseeing trip or a moment to connect with the space and take it all in?
and your birthday—that story truly warmed my heart. What your friend said about you having the most diverse friend group they’ve ever seen is such a special compliment. Honestly, I think you should lean into that and make it a tradition. Maybe not just for your birthday, but using it as a focal point once a year to bring everyone together could be amazing. The connections that happen in spaces where diverse groups gather are unmatched—they elevate everyone.
imagine if one friend felt that way—how do you think all the others feel about being part of your world? It’s worth exploring ways to bring those people together more often, even outside of birthdays.
thank you so much for taking the time to reflect and share this with me. It felt like you took me on a journey, and I deeply appreciate that.
i’ll be anticipating your response to the gathering idea and your Kaaba trip.
Hold on, but why does Spotify Life-Wrapped actually go so hard? I love that LOL. The full circle moment of being on the construction team of where you ended up living is amazing to me, wow. Did that just happen or did you envision that when you were on the team? If my 2024 was a song, the title might be something like 'Lean In'..which is something I'm still doing even as we approach the end of the year.
to be honest, I never saw this coming—not in my wildest dreams. Back then, it was just me, working outdoors through the thick of winter, working diligently on that construction site. Carrying items here and there, often taking breaks to hide in the very garage and basement that I now call home. It’s surreal!
i mean, who would’ve thought that the bare ground I walked on back then would eventually become a place I’d live in? It’s a full-circle moment, honestly. Every time I think about it, I’m just like, wow. It feels like something out of a movie—one of those profound plot twists that just doesn’t seem real.
there’s definitely a lot to unpack about this journey, but maybe my mind hasn’t fully accessed it yet. I feel like the lessons/realizations are there—waiting for me to stumble on them as time goes by.
as for your 2024 and the theme Lean In, I’m curious—what exactly are you leaning into?
I love how you wrapped this up nicely and with such thoughtful kind words. It’s been a pleasure reading from you and connecting with you this year.
If my 2024 was a song title, it would be omooo 🥴 which loosely translates to damn- with positive and negative meanings. For folks who don’t understand Naija lingo.
I loved this Tobi, it's made me reflect on my own year in a way I wouldn't have done without reading your piece. Enjoy the break and I hope 2025 is your best year yet 🫶
Awwwwwww. Thank you for the mention. It felt amazing. I truly believe you don't have the full idea of how your actions and personality impact people. Now being me, seeing my name invoked some emotions and I am tempted to write about it.
Wow!! I’d love to read more about your experience growing up as a PK. I am not one myself, I grew up between homes with conflicting religious beliefs which really confused me. If it’s something you put in your memoir KEEP US ALL POSTED- I’ll be at the front of the line to purchase!! 🤩
My maternal grandparents were Jewish (Grandpa) and Presbyterian (Grandma). I lived with them for a few years in my childhood. My mom turned out to be spiritual but not religious, and my dad was raised Catholic! My stepdad is Jewish, and my stepmom is Christian. I have followed in my Moms footsteps. My husband reverted to Islam when our son was born 4 years ago. I love learning about how others experience religion/the divine <3
i love nothing more than reading a rundown of someone’s year.
loved the burrito analogy tho. also, the idea of a Spotify Life-Wrapped is unreasonably good that i’m mad it doesn’t exist yet.
arghhh, i had to double-check when i saw my name in that list—what?! i’m honored, seriously. it’s been such a vibe connecting with you this year, icl. you’ve had one hell of a year, and i’m glad i got to witness some of it from my corner of the internet.
anyway, thanks for cooking up Jollof-Write and for giving us the sauce (pun absolutely intended) this year. can’t wait to see what 2025 holds for you—— memoir pending, obviously.
your forever-fan-who’s-not-at-all-jealous-of-your-barbecue-family-moment,
You, my friend, are so gracious! One of the things I appreciate the most about you, even from this distance, is something that is nowadays becoming an all too rare trait for most humans: the authentic ability to humbly acknowledge others through the abundant generosity of your spirit. I am certain the friends you have, with whom you are physically in closest proximity to, see you as one of their kindest, most genuine and soulful relations. You, my friend, are a rare soul and a true light for this world. May you continue to shine. i’m grateful for you.
wow!! you make this space so much better for me. The encouragement is so reassuring. I could literally say the same of you. Ever kind and honest.
blessing on blessings for you, Kert. And happy holidaying in NYC with the fam.
"Some stick with us, replaying like a favorite song; others we’re happy to skip..."
Tobi! You write so beautifully.
Mine would be a burrito wrapped tightly with determination and served with a side of gratitude and Sia's Unstoppable playing in the background.
aint that beautiful! what things did determination get you through?
Loads of things oooo. Maybe I will write about it someday. Grateful to have crossed paths with you, Chief.
please write it. I want to read. 🥹🥹
Compliments of the season brother Tobi🤩💕. This was the year I met you🥳
awnnnn! that so beautiful of you to say. come here 🫂🫂
What a brilliant concept, from an equally brilliant you!
First off, you were part of the construction team for the apartment building you live in? That’s incredible. I always forget that people have entire lives outside of writing on Substack. You are truly a multi-talented human being, and I see you. I loved hearing about the moments you’ve been replaying this year. It got me thinking about my own Spotify Life-Wrapped, so I’ll share a few highlights below.
This year, my family trip to Saudi Arabia was, without question, a week I’ll always have on replay. Nothing compares to the feeling of seeing the Kaaba for the first time. It was completely surreal. The trip gave me the emotional reset and spiritual purification I didn’t even realize I needed.
Another top moment? My birthday game night. Let me back up—I had planned a pickleball party (classic me), but after a dry summer, of course hurricane Debbie rolled in on my birthday week with torrential rain. We had to pivot to a game night, and honestly, I was nervous about it coming together. But it turned out to be perfect. Friends from all parts of my life—childhood, college, and new connections—came together. A friend even said, “You have the most diverse friend group I’ve ever seen!” That stuck with me. We ate pizza from my favorite Brooklyn spot, laughed until we cried, and had the best time. The next day, my childhood friend and I flew to Cabo for a week of pure bliss..picking fresh vegetables and fruits on the farm we stayed on, swimming in crystal clear waters, and reconnecting like no time had passed. The week after, I got to spend another week at the beach in NC with my family, a tradition we really cherish.
I’m grateful for a magical year. Thank you for sharing and inspiring me to reflect on all these moments that made this year unforgettable.
Can’t wait to see all that you cook up next year!
you know, when I first started reading your comment, I had no idea I was in for such a treat. I honestly thought it was just going to be one of those comments where someone says something nice in two or three lines and then leaves. But wow, the way you processed everything—it feels like this could easily be an essay of its own.
first, I just want to thank you for seeing me. Sometimes, in the moment, we don’t realize how we’re setting ourselves up for something beautiful. I feel so grateful to have been part of the process of constructing the place I now call home. What a story, right?
i also relate to what you mentioned about writing on Substack not being a full-time thing for most of us. I often find myself curious about what people do outside of writing. It amazes me how brilliant minds like yours can carve out time, whether it’s after work or during brief windows of downtime, to create something so meaningful on here.
your trip to the Kaaba, that’s such a beautiful experience to share with your family! Were there lots of people there when you went? Was it more of a sightseeing trip or a moment to connect with the space and take it all in?
and your birthday—that story truly warmed my heart. What your friend said about you having the most diverse friend group they’ve ever seen is such a special compliment. Honestly, I think you should lean into that and make it a tradition. Maybe not just for your birthday, but using it as a focal point once a year to bring everyone together could be amazing. The connections that happen in spaces where diverse groups gather are unmatched—they elevate everyone.
imagine if one friend felt that way—how do you think all the others feel about being part of your world? It’s worth exploring ways to bring those people together more often, even outside of birthdays.
thank you so much for taking the time to reflect and share this with me. It felt like you took me on a journey, and I deeply appreciate that.
i’ll be anticipating your response to the gathering idea and your Kaaba trip.
So glad to know you Tobi!
🥹🥹🥹
i wonder what your year roundup looks like?
Hold on, but why does Spotify Life-Wrapped actually go so hard? I love that LOL. The full circle moment of being on the construction team of where you ended up living is amazing to me, wow. Did that just happen or did you envision that when you were on the team? If my 2024 was a song, the title might be something like 'Lean In'..which is something I'm still doing even as we approach the end of the year.
to be honest, I never saw this coming—not in my wildest dreams. Back then, it was just me, working outdoors through the thick of winter, working diligently on that construction site. Carrying items here and there, often taking breaks to hide in the very garage and basement that I now call home. It’s surreal!
i mean, who would’ve thought that the bare ground I walked on back then would eventually become a place I’d live in? It’s a full-circle moment, honestly. Every time I think about it, I’m just like, wow. It feels like something out of a movie—one of those profound plot twists that just doesn’t seem real.
there’s definitely a lot to unpack about this journey, but maybe my mind hasn’t fully accessed it yet. I feel like the lessons/realizations are there—waiting for me to stumble on them as time goes by.
as for your 2024 and the theme Lean In, I’m curious—what exactly are you leaning into?
Not me searching for my name💀😂
hahahahahahaa! don’t worry fam, your name is boldly written in the book of life.
curious tho, what your year roundup looks like (achievements, goods, bad, unachievements) ?
I love how you wrapped this up nicely and with such thoughtful kind words. It’s been a pleasure reading from you and connecting with you this year.
If my 2024 was a song title, it would be omooo 🥴 which loosely translates to damn- with positive and negative meanings. For folks who don’t understand Naija lingo.
i want to hear 2 of the top negatives. Will you?? 🤗
Well, losing my job was a negative and a positive.
The second is how mentally tasking this year has been.
I loved this Tobi, it's made me reflect on my own year in a way I wouldn't have done without reading your piece. Enjoy the break and I hope 2025 is your best year yet 🫶
this made me smile. And if you ever do a roundup, i’ll love to read it.
Awwwwwww. Thank you for the mention. It felt amazing. I truly believe you don't have the full idea of how your actions and personality impact people. Now being me, seeing my name invoked some emotions and I am tempted to write about it.
i’m seated for it.
It's in your inbox. Enjoy
getting to it shortly
I think I got snuck into this list by periodically hiding jokes in notes for Tobi to find.
I’m glad you are committed to curating your curiosity and crafting a positive space for yourself for your future.
🥂
You had such a great year filled with pleasant memories
i defo did. Turning 30 was huge. Really beautiful year fr.
how about you?
To be honest, my year was filled with high and low moments. I'll just say II am grateful for the experience
Wow!! I’d love to read more about your experience growing up as a PK. I am not one myself, I grew up between homes with conflicting religious beliefs which really confused me. If it’s something you put in your memoir KEEP US ALL POSTED- I’ll be at the front of the line to purchase!! 🤩
OH WOW!! that's so kind of you to ask about growing up as a PK and i'll definitely try to include it in the memoir for sure.
i'm curious what sort of conflicting religious beliefs were you exposed to?
My maternal grandparents were Jewish (Grandpa) and Presbyterian (Grandma). I lived with them for a few years in my childhood. My mom turned out to be spiritual but not religious, and my dad was raised Catholic! My stepdad is Jewish, and my stepmom is Christian. I have followed in my Moms footsteps. My husband reverted to Islam when our son was born 4 years ago. I love learning about how others experience religion/the divine <3
spiritual but not religious is telling of the wholesome soul your mom was.
to be able to exist as spiritual in a world that wants everyone to fall in line with one religion. I respect that.
but wow! what a variety of worlds you were surrounded by. now i see what you meant
P.S. TY for asking! & I really can't wait to learn more about your history too!
I love that your main goal for the year was to attend therapy!
Simple but powerful.
appreciate the love brother.
I'm so grateful to have met you this year! This makes me wanna do a life wrapped now... 🤔
you better do it. I'd love to see it.🫢
i love nothing more than reading a rundown of someone’s year.
loved the burrito analogy tho. also, the idea of a Spotify Life-Wrapped is unreasonably good that i’m mad it doesn’t exist yet.
arghhh, i had to double-check when i saw my name in that list—what?! i’m honored, seriously. it’s been such a vibe connecting with you this year, icl. you’ve had one hell of a year, and i’m glad i got to witness some of it from my corner of the internet.
anyway, thanks for cooking up Jollof-Write and for giving us the sauce (pun absolutely intended) this year. can’t wait to see what 2025 holds for you—— memoir pending, obviously.
your forever-fan-who’s-not-at-all-jealous-of-your-barbecue-family-moment,
halidah 💋
i love how you articulate.
"your forever-fan-who’s-not-at-all-jealous-of-your-barbecue-family-moment,"
this part made me chuckle so much. Are you sure you aren't jealous? 😂