Loud, Proud, and Unapologetically Me

A Journey Back To The Fire and Voice I Thought I Lost.

For a long time, I was just going through the motions—working, taking care of my kids, getting a little rest, and doing it all over again. I was surviving, not living. And at some point, I realized: life was passing me by. This couldn’t be allthere was.

Part of that came from the transition of moving to a new country. Learning a new language. Trying to navigate everything while never feeling completely confident or comfortable in who I was. Somewhere in that process—I lost parts of me. My personality, my fire, my spark. I became quieter, more careful, always trying to blend in.

But I don’t want to keep shrinking myself.
Because my kids deserve to know the real me—the bold, passionate, driven version of myself that once lit up every room. And truthfully, I need her back too.

I’ve always been the soft-spoken one. The one who avoids hurting anyone’s feelings. The one who downplays her success so others don’t feel small. The one who shows up for everyone but rarely asks for help herself.

But that version of me is evolving.

Because I’m done playing small.
I’m ready to be unapologetically me—loud, proud, and deeply rooted in everything I’ve built, no matter how big or small. I’m ready to celebrate the incredible circle I have, and stop wasting energy on fake friendships just to keep the peace.

I want to teach my kids that with discipline, respect, and hard work, the sky isn’t the limit—it’s just the beginning.

I’m ready to knock on doors, even if they don’t open, because I will try.
I’m ready to get uncomfortable, to grow, to step into the woman I know I’m meant to be.

If you’ve ever lost parts of yourself in survival mode… If you’ve been holding back, waiting for the “right” moment to show up fully—this is your sign.

Don’t wait for permission.

Start now.
Be loud. Be proud. Be you.

— Cris Levin