Unwarranted Approval: The Journey of a Prince - Paperback

by Naimah Muhammad (Photographer), Ayinde J. Muhammad (Author)

During the good portion of my early life, I looked for the approval of someone or something outside of myself for validation: friends, family, onlookers, etc. I wasn't necessarily told to do so, but the look of disappointment was something that has always eaten away at my insides. Over time, I developed this bad habit of doing and saying things that I knew sounded good to other people rather than doing and saying things that re-affirmed my own soul. Bending to somebody else's vision instead of walking in my own purpose. Even now, I still struggle with disappointment to a degree, just not as bad as I did.Truth be told, I didn't see much value at the time in self-acceptance; or more-so, I don't think I gave myself much of any thought before I gave it to someone else. This alone can prevent one from obtaining the fullness of their true self, especially as they mature. And it was during these maturing times, the last 3-4 years, that I started writing my journey to that fullness of self, not realizing it was a book until last year: Unwarranted Approval.For me, this text is a verbal portrayal of the growth I've experienced in that time frame. It's inspirational, heartbreaking, and excruciatingly honest, and while I'm striving to shed light on my story I'm also (potentially) shedding light on so many other stories of my peers. So, regardless of whether or not anyone likes this book, at least I can proudly say that I approve of this message.