e-Journals by Elora M. Kindred

Welcome to the elorasong® blog—a sacred space of storytelling, recovery, and self-discovery. Here, you’ll find reflections on sobriety, healing after military service, spiritual growth, and personal empowerment. These heartfelt writings are crafted especially for Black women veterans who are ready to reclaim their lives in sobriety.

From Service to Sobriety: How Writing for Veterans in Recovery Helped Me Heal Jun 26, 2023

Serving in the U.S. Navy allowed me to have and learn from a plethora of lived experiences. Two of the most influential were camaraderie and unspoken relatability.

The same can be said for the experiences felt in the recovery community. Though I’ve chosen this path for over a decade, it was only tw...

Continue Reading...
Dear God: A Year-End Letter of Renewal in Recovery Dec 27, 2022

Dear God:

The end of the year has crept upon us, and most people embark on resolutions and promises for the upcoming new year.

While I believe in the importance of becoming, I also realize I must remain realistic with my aspirations. Why not strive for these personal empowerments and affirmations ...

Continue Reading...
How Well Do You Embrace Unexpected Change in Recovery? May 23, 2022

I have a question: How well do you welcome unexpected change when it arrives?

Like most, I tend to plan days, weeks, and sometimes months in advance. As of late, I have been called to plan the upcoming years with more diligence and direction. Could it be I’m getting older and desire a fulfillment i...

Continue Reading...
Do You Know How Special You Are? An Affirmation of Uniqueness and Worth Mar 28, 2022

I have a question: Do you know how special you are?

Our uniqueness is a priceless quality. It serves as our most valuable possession, standing as a representation of our authentic selves.

» What does uniqueness look like? You.

You are peace.

You are the mist of magnificence.

You are the physi...

Continue Reading...
Room 118: A Poetic Reflection on Contentment and Self-Love Jan 28, 2022

Twelve years ago, on January 7th, I wrote a poem dedicated to my definition of contentment and self-love.

At the time it was written, my living situation appeared bleak on the outside. The obstacles I encountered subjected me to doubt, discouragement, and internal discord — all while approaching th...

Continue Reading...
A Sober New Year’s Eve: A Spiritual Rebirth and Tribute to Jane B. Jan 21, 2022

Happy New Year, ya’ll 🎉

Yes, we are well into the year and my salutation is surely intentional. No doubt, this jubilant journey of ‘22 has begun with new adventures. I don’t know about you, but it has already introduced me to the unexplained and unexpected — in positive ways. A welcoming such as th...

Continue Reading...
Breakdown or Breakthrough? A Recovery Reflection on Healing Through Surrender Aug 18, 2021

I have a question for you: When was the last time you experienced a spiritual, mental, or emotional breakdown?

You know, the kind that has you crying uncontrollably while searching in desperation for a solution to (fill in the blank). The heart pounding, gut wrenching kind of breakdown that has you...

Continue Reading...
Laughing with Myself: Finding Healing and Humor in Sobriety Jul 28, 2021

I have a question: When was the last time you laughed with your Self?

Ya’ll, I laugh with my Self all the time! Why?

Firstly, because I can. LOL! (Pun intended). Secondly, because I understand and fully accept my quirkiness. I’m animated, make up my own vocabulary to express my Self, and will choo...

Continue Reading...
How Do You Encourage Others in Healing? The Power of Safe Communities and Shared Strength Jul 21, 2021

I have a question: How do you encourage others in their healing?

As the world evolves, more and more people are sharing their past and present traumas, dis-eases and unspoken complexities.

When such topics are shared, it is imperative each individual has a trusted community to express their hurts,...

Continue Reading...
Redefining Success: What Sobriety Taught Me About True Fulfillment Jul 07, 2021

I have a question: How do you define success?

Though the treasures we use to balance the scales of success vary from person-to-person, there is one commonality—perception. Does that come from our upbringing or simply a composition of variables from defining moments in our lives?


Tangible and Int...

Continue Reading...
Learning to Face My Reflection in Recovery With Compassion Jun 23, 2021

I have a question: Have you ever avoided your reflection in fear of what you may see?

I have.

Once upon a time, when I tried to peer into the windows of my soul, I retreated in fear of what I may find.


A Poem Riddled with Pain

I recently read a poem I wrote during my toxic entanglement with Al...

Continue Reading...
Smiling Upon Sobriety: Celebrating 14 Years of Healing, Faith, and Joy Jun 02, 2021

I have a question: Do you celebrate your life’s significant milestones?

No doubt, the manifestation of faith comes in many forms throughout our lives. However (comma), some days require great Self recognition!

Please note: These particular days of significance are not based on egocentric pride or ...

Continue Reading...