In this fourth episode I'd tell a story about a relationship that I had immediately following a long-term relationship I just got out of. The importance of trusting your intuition and the wise words that you

may encounter from people around you. This is an episode about how the truth can

set not only you free, but also the person you're with. I hope you guys enjoy passing through

episode 4 Costa Rica. It's okay just cut it off I assured the shaky stylist.

She inhaled, unassuredly, taking three snips of thin air with sharp metallic scissors.

I sat facing the mirror, my body half hidden underneath a matte black cape, my feet dangling over stained wooden floors.

The sides of my head were already buzzed, and I'd purposely been growing out my roots relaxer-free for four weeks.

It's gonna be really short, she said, the damaged strands lying limply between her fingers.

It's fine, just cut it.

I thought Arty being bald on both sides would ease the anxiety of taking a little off the top.

I didn't think I'd be that shocked when I looked in the mirror.

But a second after she snipped that last chemically treated strand, I officially look like Mmbaku from Black Panther.

Now there's plenty of different products available for natural curly girls,

assured the shaky stylist. I didn't put too much product in since we only had time for a big

chop but I personally prefer coconut oil and avocata oil. I nodded my head robotically

blinking at my reflection, itching to get my hands on some lipstick to remind the world that I was still in fact a woman.

I took one more look, swipe my card and rush to the car.

My half inch unruly curls waved hello in the rearview mirror the whole ride home.

And at first I treated my new dew as I did most strangers with a dash of skepticism and hint of curiosity looking to get a real feel before fully

embracing them with love and acceptance. My decision to Big Chop came a month prior

midway through reading Americana by Chimamanda Adichie.

The main character, Ephamelu, decided to go natural, replacing her creamy cracked tresses

...