Listen to Your Momma!

There’s a reason they say, “Momma knows best.” I learned this lesson the hard way one Saturday night in the housing projects of Baltimore City. That night, I made a decision that could have cost me my life. And if you’ve ever ignored wise advice and paid the price, you’ll understand why this lesson is so important.

As a teenager, my friends and I had our minds set on going to a party across town. It was supposed to be the place to be—music, dancing, good times. But my momma had a different feeling about it. She told me, “Don’t go. I have a bad feeling.” Momma didn’t have any proof, no solid reason—just a hunch. And in my young mind, I thought she was just being overprotective.

So, I waited for her to go to bed. Then, ignoring her warning, I slipped out of the house and went anyway.

What happened next still gives me chills. Violence broke out at the party. People got hurt. Lives were changed forever. And I barely made it out in one piece. That night could have been my last.

Momma was right.

The lesson? We often get wise counsel from people who have lived longer, seen more, and developed a sense that we may not yet have. But too often, we ignore it. We think we know better. We assume they’re just being cautious, overreacting, or even trying to hold us back. But when we disregard wise counsel, we take unnecessary risks that can cost us dearly.

So how can we learn to truly listen to the wisdom of others? Here are three steps to make it easier to heed the advice of those who have our best interests at heart:

1. Pause Before You Act

When someone you trust gives you advice, don’t rush to dismiss it. Pause. Take a deep breath. Reflect on their words. Ask yourself: “What if they’re right?” Too often, we react impulsively instead of taking a moment to consider the wisdom behind the warning.

2. Recognize the Value of Experience

Wisdom comes from experience, and those who have walked before us often see things we cannot. Whether it’s a parent, mentor, coach, or friend, understand that their insights come from a place of love and knowledge. Their warnings are not meant to limit you, but to protect you and guide you toward a better future.

3. Trust Your Gut—But Also Trust Theirs

We all have instincts, but experience sharpens intuition. When a wise and trusted person says they “have a bad feeling,” that’s often their life experience speaking. Your gut is valuable, but so is theirs. Learn to balance your own judgment with the wisdom of those who’ve been where you are now.

I walked away from that night with a scar—not a physical one, but a lesson that stays with me. Momma wasn’t trying to ruin my night; she was trying to save my life. And she almost lost me because I didn’t listen.

So, if you ever find yourself at a crossroads, facing a choice that feels tempting but uncertain, listen to the people who love you enough to warn you. Listen to your mentors, your elders, your trusted friends.

Listen to your Momma.

Because sometimes, that one moment of listening can make all the difference between a lesson learned and a mistake you can never undo.