Returning to my roots. A step back in to the community.

There’s something incredibly special about hearing a name from your past—something that used to mean the world to you—and realizing that your heart still remembers.

During a recent Zoom call for the Color Your World Summer Reading Challenge with my librarians from Georgia Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (GLS), we were chatting about the National Federation of the Blind’s convention. As the conversation flowed, someone mentioned the Northeast Chapter of the Georgia Council of the Blind—and right then, a spark lit up in me.

I used to be a part of that chapter. It was years ago, but those memories are still warm in my heart: the connections, the shared stories, the support, and the belonging. I didn’t even hesitate when I heard their name again. I just said, “I’d love to be a member again.” And I meant every word.

So today, I reached out. I sent a message to Mrs. Linda Cox, the chapter treasurer, to let her know I want to return—not just as a member, but as someone who truly understands now what it means to have a community that sees you, hears you, and lifts you up.

So much has changed since I was last involved. I’ve been navigating moderate to severe hearing loss, adjusting to new hearing aids, and learning to move through the world in a different way. Sometimes it's isolating. Sometimes it's empowering. And sometimes, it’s just plain hard. But through it all, I've kept one thing close to me: the desire to connect—with people, with purpose, and with the part of myself that still loves to learn, advocate, and grow.

This blog has been one of those spaces for connection. So today, I wanted to share this new chapter with all of you.
Or maybe it’s not new at all.
Maybe it’s just a coming home.

To anyone out there who has drifted from a group, a calling, or a piece of yourself that once brought you joy:
It’s okay to return.
It’s okay to miss it.
And it’s never too late to come back.

Thank you for walking with me. 💜

With love,
Kamala Milton

Disability & Hearing Advocate 

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