In The Porch Was Our Sanctuary, Karla Scipio reflects on how Southern porches once served as sacred spaces for healing, storytelling, and sisterhood among Black women. She beautifully captures the quiet power of these gatherings and the wisdom they held. Now, she invites us to witness a return—not just to the porch, but to a way of being rooted in community, care, and spiritual restoration.

Vascular dementia slowly took pieces of my mother’s mind, but never touched her heart. Even in silence, her hands, her eyes, and her presence held the power to comfort and connect. In this reflection, writer Joanna Johnson shares a story of grief, memory, and finding strength through the waves of loss and the quiet grace of a mother’s love.

KIN + DIGNITY® Magazine is excited to announce that we are currently seeking submissions for our upcoming September 2025 issue, which will be centered on the vibrant and rich theme of “The Southern Black Rodeo Experience.” We invite storytellers, poets, photographers, and artists to share their authentic voices and unique perspectives that celebrate this powerful cultural tradition.

We often think of life in years, but Karla Scipio invites us to consider it in breaths, each one a quiet and powerful gift.

Through her experience as a nurse and mother, she shows how intentional breathing can ground us, calm us, and reconnect us to what truly matters.

Sit back, relax, and let Pauline Mansfield’s Reverse Migration Story on the Crescent Train carry you on her journey from up North to the New South.

In Joanna Johnson's reflective narrative, she vividly recounts powerful encounters with the divine, where the presence of God was so tangible it seemed to permeate the air. Through moments of fervent prayer, faith, and miraculous interventions, she shares personal experiences of healing, provision, and comfort. Despite life's challenges, from financial struggles to health crises, Joanna finds solace and strength in her unwavering belief.

In a heartfelt reflection, Pauline journeys back to Christmas 2023, sharing cherished memories of a resilient rural childhood. She vividly describes festive traditions, from socks hung with care to mistletoe adventures. Amid the challenges of COVID, the appreciation for small gestures and the importance of carrying on family traditions shine through.

As we step into the cooler months, it's not uncommon for many of us to face the significant challenge of seasonal depression. However, this year, I'm determined to shift our focus from mere survival to thriving. Let's dive into what seasonal depression feels like, what's causing it, and some unconventional mood-boosting tips.

Bonnie Lee Harvey shares her personal journey of healing and self-discovery following a tumultuous relationship. She emphasizes the importance of honesty, transparency, and self-acceptance, especially for Black women who have faced negative stereotypes and societal challenges. Harvey highlights the enduring love and resilience within the Black community and calls for healing, reconciliation, and restoration as the path to a brighter future.