In my next campaign with adidas, I was told to write about someone who inspires me. What I love about my Adidas family is the creative freedom they give me. Serendipity at its finest, my Mom happens to be visiting me for 6 weeks (Yes, 6 weeks!). Like most Mother/Daughter relationships we’ve had our ups and downs but we are now closer than ever. My mother is the strongest person I know. She endured a horrendous childhood but still ended up being one the best, most nurturing mothers on the planet with incredible life accomplishments. I have and always say she is the bar! She’s my best friend and I’m very lucky to have her. She’s a reminder to us all that one can overcome almost any adversity life may throw at you. I figured this campaign would be cathartic for both of us.
1. What’s the one thing you would have done differently as a mom?
I wish I were more nurturing and use more attentive listening skills. I worked a lot as I was the main provider of our household. I did the best I could but looking back, I wish my parenting skills were a bit more tender.
2. Why did you choose to be with my father?
He is very compassionate and tolerant. He was relentless in his pursuit of me and I made him work for it. Ladies, let them work for it.
3. In what ways do you think I’m like you? And not like you?
You are very agile. Also, I believe we have the same exact work ethic. You are the hardest working person I know. (me, chiming in.. No, you are). I am incredibly proud of everything you’ve accomplished on your own.
Me: I think when you cut me off, you forgot the greatest and most important gift you ever gave me and that simply was work ethic. You can’t buy it, you either have it or you don’t.
5. Is there anything you have always wanted to tell me but never have?
I’ve skimmed over it in the past but your pregnancy was very difficult. You are truly a miracle baby. I’ve always thought that was why you are such a fighter. I think you have 9 lives. We almost lost you so many times when you were younger.
6. Do you think it’s easier or harder to be a mother now than when you were raising our family?
Now because I have zero control over my children. No matter how much advice I give, you have the liberty to live your life as you please and that I assume is a very difficult thing for any mother.
7. Is there anything you regret not having asked your parents?
My Mother died at a very young age. I never had the time or luxury to ask her anything. If I could ask her anything, I’ll ask her “how much do you love me”? I wish she were here to see all my accomplishments.
8. What’s the best thing I can do for you right now?
Get married and give me grandchildren.
9. Is there anything that you wish had been different between us―or that you would still like to change?
I always prayed and wished we were closer and I am so happy we are working on that every single day.
10. What drives you? What motivates you? Why do you work so hard?
Legacy. I’ve always wanted my name to live on by touching people’s lives. I just opened my very own hospital in Nigeria for Sickle Cell patients and planned parenthood. Leaving something to you all was always my dream and I am happy I can say “I did it”.
Thank you so much for reading and to adidas for sponsoring this lovely chat with my Mother. You can purchase the jumpsuit HERE and also the hat HERE. Have a beautiful day everyone and stay fabulous.
XOXO,
Niké
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