We had the good fortune of connecting with Natashia Deón and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Natashia, as a parent, what do you feel is the most meaningful thing you’ve done for them?
Showing up. The power of presence is everything. Not only taking up space, but doing so with a cheerful heart, even if or when we’re hurting. We can’t always, but we can always make it a goal. A kid’s memory of us will last longer than our lives so we can intentionally give good ones. The bad ones will happen on their own. Our gift to our children is peace, safety, is managing emotions, is to see them and to love them. And when we can, to let them see us. Childhood is short. It’ll be over for them soon so why not leave them a gift that will last their lifetimes and will likely extend to years after you’re gone?

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
What sets me apart is that I know I’m not special. I love and am loved. I am flawed and also glorious just like you. And for these reasons people who are meant for me, find me.

I have gotten to where I am by taking risks. By staying on course once I have made a decision. By burning bridges. By allowing myself to pause to witness beauty. By walking by faith and not by sight. By giving more of myself than today’s thinking would recommend. By hurting a lot. By loving more. And no, it hasn’t been easy. Life’s challenges have gotten harder but I’m different, sometimes better. I surprise myself with my own passion, just when I think I’m depleted.

The most valuable lesson? Eat, drink, sleep, laugh, repeat. None of this time is wasted.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
KTown. Dan Sung Sa and order off of the a la carte menu. To do so, you’ll have to order a drink.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Lee Saunders. Ava Lauryn. Ash Lee Saunders. PEN Center USA. Counterpoint Press. Dan Smetanka. Brett Waterfield. Shaherah White. Angelique Ehat.

Website: https://natashiadeon.com

Instagram: @natashiadeon

Twitter: @natashiadeon

Facebook: @natashiadeon

Image Credits
William Barclay & Lee Saunders

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.