They say life begins at the end of your comfort zone. Well, I’ve practically built a home there. However, my friends helped me come out of my comfort zone and introduced me to this platform. A huge thank you to them! I’ve learned that some doors lead to comfort. Others lead to…… something more. So, this is my story of stepping through that other door.
THE CHAPTERS OF MY LIFE
My name is Ruffa Jane, but you can call me Ruffa or Jane – whichever feels more comfortable. By the way, I’m an ambivert – I can be both talkative and quiet, depending on who I’m with. This sometimes makes it challenging to make friends, as I’m not always comfortable initiating conversations.
But I’m learning to embrace my introverted side, find strength in my quiet moments, and connect with others in authentic ways. I’m also a storyteller at heart and a lover of simple joys, and I believe that life is a mix of adventures, lessons, and challenges.
I’m the second of four siblings – two sisters and a brother. But our family’s story is richer and more complex than that simple description suggests. There are seven in the family. Because we also grew up with a cousin who became like a sister to us. Let’s call her Cheche, and her story is part of ours. She faced a tough start in life when her father abandoned her, her sister, and her mother.
So, my parents welcomed them into our home. Eventually, Cheche’s sister moved on, and their mother now lives with other family members. My parents both came from a not-so-happy family. And unfortunately, their kindness wasn’t always met with appreciation. Their generosity was sometimes taken for granted, but their unwavering compassion taught me that kindness, while sometimes misunderstood, is a strength that yields immeasurable rewards. And true generosity isn’t just about receiving something in return; rather, it’s about the quiet satisfaction of extending a hand.
I witnessed firsthand how their kindness was occasionally overlooked, yet their unwavering compassion showed me that it’s a trait worth more than anything. The joy and satisfaction I saw on their faces confirmed that they never regretted their kindness, and that’s the legacy I hope to carry forward.
Additionally, our family is deeply religious, and our faith shapes our morals and values. While we may differ from others in our beliefs, the struggles and lessons we’ve shared have strengthened our bonds.
We’ve learned to navigate disagreements with grace, to celebrate our successes together, and to find comfort in each other’s presence during times of hardship. These shared experiences, the laughter, the tears, the triumphs, and the setbacks create the beautiful story of our family.
THINGS I LOVE TO DO
Writing
The power of words captivated me since childhood. Writing wasn’t just a pastime; it was (and still is) a vital outlet for my emotions and a means of creative exploration. Through poems, stories, and countless journal entries, I’ve discovered the profound ability of writing to shape my understanding of myself and the world. It’s a habit I’ve always embraced, and I’ll continue to nurture. Here’s a little taste of one of my poetry:
The red mark bleeds across the page,
A crimson stain, a bitter rage.
The hours I poured, the sweats I shed,
All washed away, a dream now dead.
Singing
Singing was more than just a habit in our family; it was part of our lives. Both my mother and father love singing, and the joy they found in singing filled our home with music and laughter. Though we are not professional singers, I could tell that it has been the greatest legacy passed down to us from our parents, shaping our personalities and creating a bond that music continues to strengthen.
Reading
I have a deep love for reading, a constant companion throughout my life. Wherever I go I always carry a book with me, a shield against boredom and a source of comfort. Books have become my friends, guiding me through life’s challenges. Among my favorites is the Bible, a book that holds a special place in my heart. Growing up in a religious family, daily bible reading became a cherished habit, and it’s now an integral part of who I am.
Listening to music
I can’t imagine my life without music. It’s more than just background noise; it’s a vital part of who I am, a constant source of inspiration and motivation. The right song can transform a mundane task into something enjoyable, helping me overcome obstacles and maintain a positive outlook.
Public speaking
My passion for public speaking started when I was in ninth grade and has burned brightly ever since. I’ve always admired renowned speakers, and their ability to command an audience and articulate their ideas with such power and grace. This admiration wasn’t just passive; I actively sought opportunities to improve my skills. I’ve had the incredible experience of delivering numerous speeches to diverse audiences, each one a valuable learning opportunity that has shaped and refined my approach. These experiences have not only built my confidence but also deepened my understanding of the art of effective communication and the profound impact a speaker can have.
Who introduce me to Hive?
My friends @miyasomi and @saixieh introduced me to this platform. I hesitated at first, unsure of what would happen. But I appreciate their support and belief in my ability to use my passion for writing to inspire others. I also want to express my sincere gratitude to Ma'am @dehai for her guidance and assistance throughout the process. She was always available to answer my questions.
HOW WILL I CONTRIBUTE TO THIS PLATFORM?
Life is a continuous teacher, and every experience holds a valuable lesson. When I was just a child, I believed that socializing was the only key to happiness. But now, I have come to understand that while socializing certainly contributes to personal growth, true and significant self-improvement comes from within. My own journey toward self-improvement has been transformative, and I hope to share these insights through my blogs, helping others discover their own potential for growth.
WHAT WOULD HIVE CAN EXPECT FROM ME?
My upcoming blogs will explore a diverse range of topics, from daily life and personal reflections to moral guidance, travel adventures, and event recaps. Consistency is a priority for me and I’m committed to regular updates. My goal is to create a resource that’s helpful and engaging for students, peers, and anyone seeking inspiration or insightful perspectives.