America: Under Construction

Denzel Washington said "I am proud to be Black, but Black is not all that I am."

I pondered on that statement for weeks as I contemplated how to put my thoughts into a coherent paragraph.  I wondered how to articulate these thoughts amid getting too emotional, if anyone had comments. I finally decided that the only thing I could do was to simply write.

Even though we are in a more accepting environment than that of the late 1800s or that of the 1960s, America is still under Construction. 

Patrons were so disappointed in Beyoncé for her 'Black Panther Tribute' and found every reason under the sun to bash her. 'She wore bullets, isn't she against gun violence?' 'She's not wearing a beret or natural hair, she is not pro-black'  'She is anti-police' 'Why would she use the Superbowl (something that brings people together) to cause such political controversy to segregate people'

Now, let me state here, I like the song "Formation" and the controversial video (for non-racial reasons), but in no way, do I believe the song itself to be political. I will also say that those same patrons would be the ones to promote anything they felt strongly about. That is EVERYONE'S right. 

You and I both have the right to say/slay, sing/shout whatever we want. That is the beauty of America. It does not matter if no one else agrees with you.

People get so angry when you disagree. Grow up. I am entitled to my own opinion, so are you. 

When hatred runs deep though, people will do things to destroy that self-love that took years to re-claim.

I read (can't confirm how true) that there were police who decided to stop providing services at Beyonce's concerts and yet there were police who protected KKK individuals rallying (there were pics). Logically we know this is not right America. The Black Panther Party although were known for taking matters into their own hands when provoked (key words), also provided for their communities: Schools, protection, Programs to give back to the youth. For them to be compared to the KKK who we all know acted without a reason, out of hate no less is an abomination.

There are news anchors who spew ignorance saying "Blacks keep pulling off the Historical Bandaid" and that we are "shoving "Black Lives Matter" down your throats as a  way to rid America of White Supremacy" .... *Blank stare* Do you hear yourself? Or are you just reading the queue cards given and not thinking about what you're saying? Either way, have several seats.

We have had a great President for eight years. I am happy that Brayden will be born under his legacy. The first African-American President - fun fact for his Baby Book.

However, because there is still more work to be done, it saddens me that we will be raising a little Black boy in such mess. When I actually sat back and pondered on Denzel's statement, I cried. I want my son to be known for his contributions to his community. For his compassion, for his faith in God, for his love to his family and friends. 

I don't want my son's legacy to be another name added to the list of senseless violence.

My little Black boy although he has not yet entered this world I pray.

I pray for his life, that he may live to be 100 and not see the barrel of  gun aimed in his direction because he went to the corner store to get his mother a blue bag of skittles.

I pray for my little Black boy's mind, that he understands that he can do anything he puts that mind to, such as being the next President.
I pray for my little Black boy's heart. That it will always be full of love and compassion even when the difficult times arise.
I pray for my little Black boy's Faith, that we instill in him at a young age and that he will always be grounded in God's love and guidance.
I pray that my little Black boy is not afraid to live his life. I hope he lives with intention.

We will raise a little Black boy in America. We will teach him to love himself and others. We will teach him the importance of having an expanded vocabulary and that wearing a hoodie doesn't make him a thug. We will teach him that having joy in hope and patience in affliction will keep him grounded. We will teach him what it's like to be Black in America, while reassuring him that Black is not all that he is.

Brayden Michael, Black is not all you will be.