Some of us have a family tree, our buddy Maui has a FAMILY FORREST. We had the pleasure of sitting down with our friend, a man who is the epitome of generosity and lives in a constant state of gratitude. The love and appreciation he has for his family, his friends, his community and his life, is beyond admirable.
He shares with us stories of his Palestinian Jordanian heritage. He talks about love and loss, grief and pushing forward. He lets us in on life post 9/11 and how he chooses every single day to lead with LOVE, despite the abundance of ignorance, hatred, xenophobia and racism that still exists today.
Maui is absolutely keeping his ancestors alive and I’m certain they are all watching over him with immense pride. He is ensuring his sons know everything about where they come from, so they can continue carrying that with them wherever they go. Hard work, forgiveness, love, optimism generosity, gratitude and positivity prove to keep the blessings coming.
We appreciate all your offerings my friend! We MUST do this again!
Much love!
Staci and Melissa
Anyone that may be struggling or feel like they just don’t belong, know that you are not alone and YOU ARE HERE ON PURPOSE! All of our stories look different. We just need to meet each other with love and kindness and do our part in dissolving the stigmas and prejudices that surround us.
Sending you all the LOVE you need and then some to spread around!
So much GRATITUDE to the following folks that made this all possible:
Guest: Maui Arikat
Hosts: Melissa Whitley and Staci Ruiz
Motion Design: Jeannie Martinez
Song: A Beautiful Mess, by Londrelle and Naomi the Goddess