A Journey Back to Just Before My Big Chop

It is interesting for me to look back at my hair journey over this past year, because in so many ways, this last year has not really been the beginning for me, but rather a detour of sorts.

I have actually been on a hair journey towards growing my hair to waist

length and beyond, since roughly 2003. The difference between then and now is that back then, I was wearing a texturizer in my hair - now, my hair is 100% natural. At the time, if you had asked me how I my journey was going (with texturized hair)- I would have told you it was fabulous - awesome - amazing, and that I was right on track to meeting my goal of waist length hair.

The funny thing is, I had no idea what lie ahead.

The pictures I've added below are from a document that I created some time last summer, shortly after I cut a very large portion of my hair off. I had not officially big chopped yet, but I was moving like a freight train right in that direction.

Rather than reinventing the wheel, I've decided to add the original documents here for you to read. Just keep in mind that this was originally written by me back in the summer 2008.

In my follow up posts, I will begin to take you forward making our way to today.

Thanks for reading:) And just click on the image to make it bigger^-^.

Some of you may have already seen this story in my fotki, but for those of you who haven't I hope that sharing this story will help if you're going through something similar. It hurts, but it will get better. Time really does heal.

*One final note: I often get asked about whether I'm for or against relaxers or texturizers after what has happened to me. And my response is no...and yes.  I think if you really would rather have your hair relaxed or texturized versus having it natural, then I say, "Go for it". BUT, if you do go for it, please know your risks, look at what happened to me and know that this is something that could potentially happen to you. Or in some cases it could be worse. I just happened, but for the grace of God, to be one of those people whose hair grew back - but not everyone is so lucky. I think we have all seen and heard those horror stories about permanent damage. Just educate yourself, and know your risks. Find a stylist that you can trust, or better yet - if you're able to - do it yourself. 

There are lots of lovely ladies out there who still choose to relax or alter their texture somehow. I used to be one of them.  My personal opinion is that natural hair can be healthier(because it's free of chemical) and it can be more liberating(not spending hour after hour in a salon) - Yes, it does have it's drawbacks, but all in all I wouldn't trade it. 

But to each their own. I think it's just important to do what works best for you. If you're happy with your hair, you're more likely to treat it right - whether relaxed or natural - and if you're treating your hair right then you usually can't go wrong:).

Ciao!!