On Life: Things I Should Have Told You

By Kim Nelson

I have enjoyed great reads during this Women’s History Month. From novels to autobiographies to children’s books, each of the amazing sistahs have brought a variety of unique voices to the table. That being said, to round out this month, I am happy to share this book of inspiration: On Life: Things I Should Have Told You by Kim Nelson.

Nelson has been highly successful in her life, not only as a game-changing executive at General Mills, but as a wife, a mother of two daughters, and her commitment to a life of service in faith and in community. Indeed, she had excellent examples in her parents and her extended family. Here, as her daughters are poised to leave the nest and embark upon college, she shares her wisdom with love in an array of life experiences.

Her words speak empowerment as a woman, as a mother to her daughter. They speak of the tools she will need as she navigates the next phase of her life as a college student and young adult. We as African Americans are the legacy of our elders and our ancestors, and it is upon us to pass that legacy on to prepare our children, that they too will pay it forward.

Nelson’s life experiences and influences span the spectrum of adulthood—family, health, love, race (for her biracial daughters), integrity, money management, education, gratitude, forgiveness, self-discipline, social justice, technology, to name some of the chapters. She doesn’t shy away from life’s challenges in her chapters, and at the same time her positive energy strengthens and encourages, something our young women need on a consistent basis.

While I read this book, I heard Regina Belle’s rendition of “If I Could”; as a parent, it did put me all up “in the feels.” As a father, it was easy for me to read Nelson’s work and share such life lessons with my son as well. When it came to her chapter On Men, I admit I found myself thinking of Steve Harvey’s book Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man; yes, we men are simple in that context. I heartily agree with the book’s importance of being the best person you can be. And of course, to do that we must lead by example.

On Life is available through Amazon and Minnesota Black Authors Expo.

For Women’s History Month, I extend my deep respect and regard to De’Vonna Bentley-Pittman, Josette Ciceron, Rosemond Sarpong Owens, and Kim Nelson. Thank you for sharing your stories.