FROM THE OWNER

When I got the news that Ms. Opal Lee herself agreed to be featured in our magazine, I was speechless. I’d never met her in person. Walking into her home, being welcomed and told to pull up a seat next to her was such an honor. As I listened to her speak, all I could think was, wow, this lady has got some memory, and her passion for making the world a better place was such an inspiration.

I had a moment alone with Ms. Opal and took the opportunity to get to know her a little better. “What is on your bucket list?” I asked. To my surprise, her answer was not what I thought she would say. Instead of traveling to some far away country, her response was still focused on helping others and doing good. As long as she’s still breathing, she wants to devote her time on change and making a difference, no matter how big or small. If only we all had an ounce of her spirit, what a beautiful world this would be.

When Rebecca Aguilar, a well known and respected journalist, agreed to write Ms. Opal Lee’s article, I was beyond grateful. I immediately fell in love with her vision of the angle she wanted to explore. So many stories have been written about Ms. Opal, so it’s rare to find a new perspective. Rebecca did just that, and I hope you enjoy reading her article, Life Lessons by Opal Lee, Grandmother of Juneteenth, in this issue.

Happy New Year! It’s been a crazy year full of ups and downs but somehow I got through it. I hope the article, Taming Chaos Through Decluttering, by Jill Bold, gives you a fresh start in embarking on your new year. I know for me this article is more important than ever. We are happy to announce that our family of 4 is growing into a family of 5. Making space and purging the unnecessary is a must for our household. We all need a fresh start at times, and the start of a new year gives us that opportunity to do so.

As always, thank you for continuing to support our mission in bringing evergreen, motivational and ethical journalism to you. Without you, One To Know would not be possible.

With gratitude,

ADRIENNE MARTINEZ Founder + Owner

In this issue, we shine a light on Opal Lee, the grandmother of Juneteenth. She urges people to change the hearts and minds of others through love and preaches that people can learn to love. How has someone made your life better with love?

I am fortunate to have many people who have inspired, empowered and encouraged me in my life. They include family and friends, but also people I am connected with via social media, and I have never met them in person. Also, as a reporter, I learn from people I interview, like Ms. Opal. She taught me that it is never too late to create good change.

Through the years, I’ve witnessed my parents navigate life with such optimism and love. Their selfless actions and ability to see the good in people have impacted me more than I could have imagined. They never look for praise or expect anything in return when they help others. Regardless of how hard life can be, they always come with open arms, prepared to serve others.

When I was on bedrest during a difficult pregnancy, my son and my husband stepped up and took over all the cooking and cleaning and laundry. They did so with a smile and a hug. Being cared for in a gentle way by loved ones brings me so much peace.

When I decided to return to college and work part time, my husband fully supported me. When I was stressed out with school, my kids encouraged me. When I finally earned my degree, they all clapped and cheered for me as I walked across the stage. I felt their love every step of the way as I was able to fulfill a lifelong dream.

Although I grew up in DFW, I used to live in the Midwest for a few years. When it was time for me to move away, my friend made a photo collage of pictures documenting our years-long friendship. I look at it whenever I miss her, and I am reminded of how many good times we had together. It’s one of the most thoughtful gifts anyone has ever given me.

When my sweet dachshund Hailey crossed the rainbow bridge, I experienced gut-piercing grief. The following day, a present was waiting on my doorstep from a new-found friend. On the brown paper box, she had written: “An angel is hugging your sweet girl until you meet again.” I couldn’t open it for about a week. When I finally did, inside was an angel holding a dachshund. Sweetest, most thoughtful gift ever.

I still feel very new to this wonderful, little big city of Fort Worth. Having moved here almost three years ago, I have met some wonderful people who have shown me kindness through actions and words. Showing love doesn’t always require a grand gesture. It can be shown through something as simple as a genuine “hello” and a kind smile.

I truly believe that love is the best gift you can give. Allowing someone to feel safe and supported in your presence means more than you can imagine. I’m thankful for all my friends and family who meet me where I’m at and love the imperfect person that I am. It encourages me to do the same for others.

In a time of despair, a woman walked alongside me. Present to my pain, she offered me unconditional love without an expectation in return. Though I felt lost and hopeless, her direction and belief in me bolstered me until I could stand on my own. This love shattered the childlike ideas of love I needed to outgrow. This love I received, I now give, too. Love shared actually grows.

I’m very much a go-go-go person. When I was waiting tables at Red Lobster in my early 20s, rushing around and stressed out, a customer flagged me down and said, “You don’t have to run for these people.” I try to remember those words when I get frazzled at work, to slow down and not kill myself trying to please everybody.