I have been reminded over the last few days, that the term 'elderly' is often associated with limitations, and weakness. There is also a slight sense of sadness.
I strongly disagree.
Although society is quick to define the categories in which people are placed, at this age, most of us have mastered the art of dancing to the beat of our own drum.
Hopefully, in some small way, this post will help remove the stigma that seems to accompany these Golden Years.
I am honored.
~
Health and Wellness
Health issues can be life changing at any age.
Even during difficult times, our attitude can have a great impact on the quality of our lives. If not physically, this is certainly true regarding our emotional journey.
The greatest hurdle is most often fear. Not a fear of dying; most people who have lived to become my age, have made peace with their creator.
It is the fear of being alone for many, and the fear of becoming a burden to our loved ones, for even more.
Perhaps the least talked about fear, is the possibility of diminishing mental capacity.
These fears are very, very real.
God is not the author of fear, so, this is a time when pure and simple faith is the answer.
That, and the assurance that we are never truly alone, because, God's love and presence are forever.
Family members and potential caregivers can help, by giving assurances that their love and support are genuine acts of love.
Not grudging, patronizing obligation.
Younger generations will have to accept that medical issues do not discriminate.
Eating healthy, and remaining active will certainly enhance your life, and usually aid in the management of many health issues.
However.....many people can be seemingly healthy one week, and suddenly find themselves fighting to survive the next.
The challenges of illness can be extremely frustrating.
Sometimes, it can be a struggle to remain patient and loving, when physical changes, pain, and fear seem to have taken up permanent residence inside your heard.
This is not an excuse to be rude and difficult.
A reason, yes... understandable, yes.
Never an excuse.
We must be kind to ourselves as well as those in our world.
One does not make it this far without facing many, many battles.
Some have been lost, but, our survival proves that more have been won.
We have the wounds and scars that document our war efforts.
We must hold tightly onto the fact that God did not bring us this far to leave us now.
The roles of both receiving care and providing care are challenging.....to say the very least!
Prayers for strength, compassion, and patience must be a constant.
Sometimes, slightly pulling back to take a deep breath can be priceless.
Take ALL of your needs to God.
He understands.
He is the source of our strength and comfort.
Fashion
This will be very brief.
I do not require anyone's advice or permission regarding my choice of dress.
My style belongs to me.
It is as unique as I am.
Any woman my age, will know what suits her best.
No apologies, or explanations will be given.
Cool.
Soon..
Part 3
Friday, December 16, 2016
Monday, December 12, 2016
Musings of An Elderly Woman....This Elderly Woman
It is official.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, I am officially an Elderly woman.
I have yet to figure out if that means I am now a step beyond a Senior Citizen, or they are one and the same.
The day after my birthday, I asked myself whether I felt any different. Much to my surprise, the answer was yes, but not in the way I would have expected. I was immediately immersed in a zone of deep reflection. Six decades to reflect on, can be quite an experience.
I have decided to share a few of my thoughts on various topics....
Being a Single 65 Year Old Black Woman
Well first, I will admit that I did not expect to be single at 65. I did not expect a fine Black knight to come in and we both ride off into the sunset on his Candy Apple Red Harley.
Okay, okay, I did not exactly expect it, but the image did make a great storyline and dream material....
Of course, in the light of day, reality becomes just that...reality. I have written several blog posts since 2012 sharing my thoughts on being saved, single, and waiting on God. I have a very hard time imagining the opportunity to fall deeply in love and spend the rest of my life with a man that God has chosen just for me. A man who will see me as a blessing from God. A man who will see me as a priority; not just an option.
But, I do indeed believe in miracles.
I consider my life to be a miracle.
However, during my deep time of reflection, I realized that very gently, very lovingly, God has prepared me to embrace and welcome His will for me. Totally, whatever that might be.
I thought I had already reached this special place of spiritual growth, but at this time in my life, I know with blessed assurance that my peace has reached an even deeper level.
It is truly amazing because I know there is more to come. We will never stop growing in Go, and He will never stop growing in us.
There is no greater love than the love of God, and I will always be a priority for Him.
That is enough.
So, thankfully, I am quite comfortable being in my own company. But to be honest, I always have been.
I appreciate and enjoy my freedom to come and go as I please.
I enjoy having the confidence, courage, and wisdom to say what needs to be said, and the proper time to say it.
How nice it is to recognize that those times don't come as often as some people think they do.
Sadly, too many elderly people seem to forget the importance of being kind and respectful of others. Some things simply do not have be said ,done, ,,or expected.
There is never an excuse to be rude; doesn't matter if you are 19, 29, or 89.
I ask God regularly to please keep me from turning into a grumpy, bitter old woman.
On the rare occasion when I lose my patience, I am deeply disappointed in myself, even if I feel justified. I would rather live the rest of my days with these feelings than to ' go off ' for unimportant real, or imagined reasons.
One of the greatest blessings that should be a part of the aging process, is finally being able to discern just what is important.
Lightens the heavy load of life.
Family
My view of family has changed very little over the years.
I have always accepted people for who and what they were.
It has never been necessary for my family to fit in a box that I have chosen for them.
I have never expected them to conform to my way of thinking.
It is not necessary to like a family member's attitude or choices in life, to love them.
Holding grudges and hard feelings will eat at the core of the person harboring the feelings.
There will be a time when the issue will become almost nonexistent, but look at how much damage has been done in the interim.
The more time that passes, the harder it will become to reconcile the differences.
There is never a winner., and the entire family suffers.
A person who seems to see only the negative in another person, usually needs to take a closer look at themselves, which I have learned over the years, is a full time,,, 24//7,,, 365 day job.
If a family member(s) is toxic, try not to judge them, but love them from afar. Since it is family, take time to look at yourself as well. Why not??
We must remember that while we share blood and lifelong bonds with our family, they are human, just like us and other humans. They have hopes, dreams, fears, issues, scars, and the ability to feel and cause grief.
A family member is in a position to support you,,,and,,, manipulate you.
Sometimes, things are simply not what they seem to be, but it is easy to get caught up in what we think we know about those closest to us.
It is important to keep our expectations realistic; for them as well as ourselves.
They are not perfect, and neither are we.
Just accept who they are, and pray they will do the same for you.
My family's dynamic is unique. But then, so are we.
But hey, aren't all families unique?
When we were all young, there were kids, a lot of activity, noise, and late, late nights.
Now, there is the calmness that comes from shared good times as well as shared grief....
.... deep powerful love that has managed to survive the maze of life.
This is Part 1 of my musings. I will post Part 2 tomorrow.
**I would like to thank my family and friends who have been encouraging me to return to my blog.
Health issues over the last couple of years have kept me away.
When I logged on, I was surprised to see that the views had reached 10,400, and I haven't posted in well over a year. That won't mean much to most people, but for, it means a lot.
I hope that my followers will be inclined to return.as well.
I am back
God is truly awesome.
Sammye Kaye
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, I am officially an Elderly woman.
I have yet to figure out if that means I am now a step beyond a Senior Citizen, or they are one and the same.
The day after my birthday, I asked myself whether I felt any different. Much to my surprise, the answer was yes, but not in the way I would have expected. I was immediately immersed in a zone of deep reflection. Six decades to reflect on, can be quite an experience.
I have decided to share a few of my thoughts on various topics....
Being a Single 65 Year Old Black Woman
Well first, I will admit that I did not expect to be single at 65. I did not expect a fine Black knight to come in and we both ride off into the sunset on his Candy Apple Red Harley.
Okay, okay, I did not exactly expect it, but the image did make a great storyline and dream material....
Of course, in the light of day, reality becomes just that...reality. I have written several blog posts since 2012 sharing my thoughts on being saved, single, and waiting on God. I have a very hard time imagining the opportunity to fall deeply in love and spend the rest of my life with a man that God has chosen just for me. A man who will see me as a blessing from God. A man who will see me as a priority; not just an option.
But, I do indeed believe in miracles.
I consider my life to be a miracle.
However, during my deep time of reflection, I realized that very gently, very lovingly, God has prepared me to embrace and welcome His will for me. Totally, whatever that might be.
I thought I had already reached this special place of spiritual growth, but at this time in my life, I know with blessed assurance that my peace has reached an even deeper level.
It is truly amazing because I know there is more to come. We will never stop growing in Go, and He will never stop growing in us.
There is no greater love than the love of God, and I will always be a priority for Him.
That is enough.
So, thankfully, I am quite comfortable being in my own company. But to be honest, I always have been.
I appreciate and enjoy my freedom to come and go as I please.
I enjoy having the confidence, courage, and wisdom to say what needs to be said, and the proper time to say it.
How nice it is to recognize that those times don't come as often as some people think they do.
Sadly, too many elderly people seem to forget the importance of being kind and respectful of others. Some things simply do not have be said ,done, ,,or expected.
There is never an excuse to be rude; doesn't matter if you are 19, 29, or 89.
I ask God regularly to please keep me from turning into a grumpy, bitter old woman.
On the rare occasion when I lose my patience, I am deeply disappointed in myself, even if I feel justified. I would rather live the rest of my days with these feelings than to ' go off ' for unimportant real, or imagined reasons.
One of the greatest blessings that should be a part of the aging process, is finally being able to discern just what is important.
Lightens the heavy load of life.
Family
My view of family has changed very little over the years.
I have always accepted people for who and what they were.
It has never been necessary for my family to fit in a box that I have chosen for them.
I have never expected them to conform to my way of thinking.
It is not necessary to like a family member's attitude or choices in life, to love them.
Holding grudges and hard feelings will eat at the core of the person harboring the feelings.
There will be a time when the issue will become almost nonexistent, but look at how much damage has been done in the interim.
The more time that passes, the harder it will become to reconcile the differences.
There is never a winner., and the entire family suffers.
A person who seems to see only the negative in another person, usually needs to take a closer look at themselves, which I have learned over the years, is a full time,,, 24//7,,, 365 day job.
If a family member(s) is toxic, try not to judge them, but love them from afar. Since it is family, take time to look at yourself as well. Why not??
We must remember that while we share blood and lifelong bonds with our family, they are human, just like us and other humans. They have hopes, dreams, fears, issues, scars, and the ability to feel and cause grief.
A family member is in a position to support you,,,and,,, manipulate you.
Sometimes, things are simply not what they seem to be, but it is easy to get caught up in what we think we know about those closest to us.
It is important to keep our expectations realistic; for them as well as ourselves.
They are not perfect, and neither are we.
Just accept who they are, and pray they will do the same for you.
My family's dynamic is unique. But then, so are we.
But hey, aren't all families unique?
When we were all young, there were kids, a lot of activity, noise, and late, late nights.
Now, there is the calmness that comes from shared good times as well as shared grief....
.... deep powerful love that has managed to survive the maze of life.
This is Part 1 of my musings. I will post Part 2 tomorrow.
**I would like to thank my family and friends who have been encouraging me to return to my blog.
Health issues over the last couple of years have kept me away.
When I logged on, I was surprised to see that the views had reached 10,400, and I haven't posted in well over a year. That won't mean much to most people, but for, it means a lot.
I hope that my followers will be inclined to return.as well.
I am back
God is truly awesome.
Sammye Kaye
Thursday, July 30, 2015
Tuesday, June 17, 2014
The Boldness of Yearning / My Perspective
One of my greatest passions is Storytelling. One of my greatest gifts is my imagination. Together, they have provided my life with intrigue, adventure, romance, and the ability to emotionally soar.
When my life went through a major change, and God placed a select few people in my path who gave me priceless encouragement, I finally understood just how blessed that I am.
There is but one slight drawback. When I am developing my characters, and my stories, my heart and spirit begin to yearn for the type of love that I write about.
I tend to focus on topics that are often difficult for people to talk about. These stories are seldom about love.
However, telling love stories is simply a part of who I am.
Is yearning a sign of loneliness?
It does not have to be. I happen to believe there is a naturalness connected to the yearning of the heart. The Bible teaches us that it is not good to be alone. This tells us that God understands whatever our feelings are during this time. He also lovingly reminds us that He will always be with us..
I love the summer months. It is during this time that I become aware of my yearning spirit. I love the sunny days and the beautiful clouds that fill the sky. I am not even seriously bothered by the heat. Back in the day, I actually planned yard work for mid-day.
My lupus limits my time in direct sunlight, but if I am careful, I can still manage to fully enjoy the clouds.
My yearning makes its presence known in rather simple ways. It could a pretty day that just begs for a short road trip. Perhaps visiting a small town with quaint little antique shops or bookstores. Of course, it would be necessary for the person with me to enjoy either antiques or books. Both??
Or, a nice picnic in a small park....
Interesting conversation...
I have accepted the fact that I am really not exactly a social butterfly. I make no apology for being me. I must admit, that over the last few years, I have felt somewhat guilty for perhaps being rather boring, compared to some women. These feelings usually result in the 'birth' of a male character that is simply perfect for me. Or perhaps I should say, I am perfect for him..
I often yearn for someone to have the patience to just listen to my story ideas.
I believe that both men and women experience yearnings from time to time. I also believe that society has programmed us to be embarrassed or ashamed of these feelings. It is okay to sing along with a love song, or identify with a poem that hits a nerve, but it is not easy to just come out and say that your heart yearns to connect with that special person.
There is boldness in accepting our feelings, only then can we deal with whatever those feelings happen to be.
There is boldness in owning your personal truth.
Oh well, my stories are a welcome outlet for me and my yearnings.
I am truly blessed, because my stories never make me sad; they have become anchors for my hope.
When my life went through a major change, and God placed a select few people in my path who gave me priceless encouragement, I finally understood just how blessed that I am.
There is but one slight drawback. When I am developing my characters, and my stories, my heart and spirit begin to yearn for the type of love that I write about.
I tend to focus on topics that are often difficult for people to talk about. These stories are seldom about love.
However, telling love stories is simply a part of who I am.
Is yearning a sign of loneliness?
It does not have to be. I happen to believe there is a naturalness connected to the yearning of the heart. The Bible teaches us that it is not good to be alone. This tells us that God understands whatever our feelings are during this time. He also lovingly reminds us that He will always be with us..
I love the summer months. It is during this time that I become aware of my yearning spirit. I love the sunny days and the beautiful clouds that fill the sky. I am not even seriously bothered by the heat. Back in the day, I actually planned yard work for mid-day.
My lupus limits my time in direct sunlight, but if I am careful, I can still manage to fully enjoy the clouds.
My yearning makes its presence known in rather simple ways. It could a pretty day that just begs for a short road trip. Perhaps visiting a small town with quaint little antique shops or bookstores. Of course, it would be necessary for the person with me to enjoy either antiques or books. Both??
Or, a nice picnic in a small park....
Interesting conversation...
I have accepted the fact that I am really not exactly a social butterfly. I make no apology for being me. I must admit, that over the last few years, I have felt somewhat guilty for perhaps being rather boring, compared to some women. These feelings usually result in the 'birth' of a male character that is simply perfect for me. Or perhaps I should say, I am perfect for him..
I often yearn for someone to have the patience to just listen to my story ideas.
I believe that both men and women experience yearnings from time to time. I also believe that society has programmed us to be embarrassed or ashamed of these feelings. It is okay to sing along with a love song, or identify with a poem that hits a nerve, but it is not easy to just come out and say that your heart yearns to connect with that special person.
There is boldness in accepting our feelings, only then can we deal with whatever those feelings happen to be.
There is boldness in owning your personal truth.
Oh well, my stories are a welcome outlet for me and my yearnings.
I am truly blessed, because my stories never make me sad; they have become anchors for my hope.
Wednesday, May 28, 2014
The Voice of Maya Angelou/ My Perspective
When I learned of the passing of Dr. Maya Angelou this morning, I was deeply saddened. I believe it is safe to say that a large portion of the world is mourning her death.
When my granddaughter mentioned this afternoon, that she had read 'I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings', I told her that I had also read the book at a young age. I was mistaken, I was actually 18 years old when I read the book. I realized later, that reading that book took me back to my childhood.
I remember how surprised I was to find out that this story would take place in Stamps, Arkansas. Momma and her family lived in and around Stamps after leaving South Carolina, and before moving to Texas. While growing up, we would visit the few remaining relatives at least once a year. They had a huge peach orchard, and we always had plenty of canned peaches in the pantry. They also made a very limited supply of peach wine that was delicious.
I was fascinated by the mere possibility that I had traveled the same roads as this gifted and talented woman.
Of course, by the end of the first few paragraphs, I knew that this story would touch my very core. I personally understood so many of her feelings.
I so completely related to this child making the decision to simply cease to speak.
If I could have managed to do so, I would have done exactly the same.
I fell in love with the voice of Maya Angelou.
I love the art of expression in any form. I LOVE the art of storytelling. I love words that come from the heart of the artist. Sometimes, words are just beautifully strung together; this is an amazing gift. There are also words that you just KNOW flowed straight from somewhere deep inside the artist.
I have never met either a man or woman who ever read her work, or heard her speak, and were not touched in some positive way.
You just know..
Maya Angelou's poetry introduced me to a level of poetry I had never experienced. Her spoken words flowed with the same cadence as a beautiful song filled with melodies that touch your very soul.
The fact that she always remained humble, made it possible for her wisdom and insight to make a genuine impact on her readers/listeners.
Maya Angelou's work has done more to build the confidence and self-esteem of Black women than any one person I am aware of.
Her words have provided both permission, and a guide that helps all women to accept, love and embrace who they are.
God gave her a voice and the words to lift spirits, teach the life lessons she had learned, and to share her wisdom and love with others,
She will be greatly missed.
Her words will live forever.
Thank you Father, for sharing her with us.
When my granddaughter mentioned this afternoon, that she had read 'I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings', I told her that I had also read the book at a young age. I was mistaken, I was actually 18 years old when I read the book. I realized later, that reading that book took me back to my childhood.
I remember how surprised I was to find out that this story would take place in Stamps, Arkansas. Momma and her family lived in and around Stamps after leaving South Carolina, and before moving to Texas. While growing up, we would visit the few remaining relatives at least once a year. They had a huge peach orchard, and we always had plenty of canned peaches in the pantry. They also made a very limited supply of peach wine that was delicious.
I was fascinated by the mere possibility that I had traveled the same roads as this gifted and talented woman.
Of course, by the end of the first few paragraphs, I knew that this story would touch my very core. I personally understood so many of her feelings.
I so completely related to this child making the decision to simply cease to speak.
If I could have managed to do so, I would have done exactly the same.
I fell in love with the voice of Maya Angelou.
I love the art of expression in any form. I LOVE the art of storytelling. I love words that come from the heart of the artist. Sometimes, words are just beautifully strung together; this is an amazing gift. There are also words that you just KNOW flowed straight from somewhere deep inside the artist.
I have never met either a man or woman who ever read her work, or heard her speak, and were not touched in some positive way.
You just know..
Maya Angelou's poetry introduced me to a level of poetry I had never experienced. Her spoken words flowed with the same cadence as a beautiful song filled with melodies that touch your very soul.
The fact that she always remained humble, made it possible for her wisdom and insight to make a genuine impact on her readers/listeners.
Maya Angelou's work has done more to build the confidence and self-esteem of Black women than any one person I am aware of.
Her words have provided both permission, and a guide that helps all women to accept, love and embrace who they are.
God gave her a voice and the words to lift spirits, teach the life lessons she had learned, and to share her wisdom and love with others,
She will be greatly missed.
Her words will live forever.
Thank you Father, for sharing her with us.
Wednesday, April 30, 2014
Religion and Respect........By Sammye Kaye/ My Perspective
Once again, I am surprised by the fact that so many people of color were blindsided by the racist comments made by the owner of the Clippers.
Racism will not be the topic of this post, but it's blood cousin, discrimination, will be explored.
I am blessed to have six female friends who have impacted my life in ways they will probably never understand. Four of these women are Catholic.
We are all women of strong faith. We have shared our experiences from the different denominations we have belonged to over the years..
I grew up in a small town with an impressive representation of various religions. I was fortunate enough to grow up in a family who were actually members of different denominations. Except for an occasional tacky comment by a family member who had mastered the art of being 'tacky', there was an unspoken rule of respect regarding the personal belief system of each person.
Over the last twenty years, I have noticed the ease in which some people criticize the religion of other people. The strong boundaries that once protected a very personal choice, has become almost nonexistent.
Who has the right to tell another person how they should practice their beliefs?
I have seen women valiantly attempting to defend a ritual or practice that is dear to their heart.
I have seen the faith of women questioned by people who feel they are mandated to make them see their truth; by any means necessary. Except gentleness and caring??
I have seen women left in tears following an attack of harsh, unyielding words in an attempt to tear down the fiber of their religion.
It appears that those who have chosen to practice Catholicism, are quite often the victims of the most negativity from other denominations.
The disrespectful attacks can range from sharing an offensive news article, to aggressively asking questions that are designed to start a negative dialogue.
This is unfortunate. I reminded one of my friends that in most cases, the person is simply ignorant. Perhaps if they took the time to ask intelligent questions about things they don't understand, they would gain enough knowledge to be respectful, or at the very least, be quiet.
Some harp on the issue of sexual immorality in the priesthood.
Is there not an issue of sexual immorality among the clergy??
Yes, when children are involved, their punishment should fit the crime; for anyone who is guilty.
Is it power?
Yes, the Pope has an incredible amount of power, from the Vatican.
Yes, a popular,and well connected Pastor, also has an enormous amount of power, and he is standing in front of his congregation every Sunday.
Is it money?
It is my personal opinion that most organized religions are too focused on money.
Yes, yes, I know; they are businesses..
Now see, none of the denominations are perfect.
None of us are perfect.
Glass house?
Throwing the first stone?
Think about it...
It basically comes down to Christians attacking other Christians.
Why?
Are they unbelievers??
All parties involved believe that Jesus is the Son of God.
The same people believe that He was crucified on the cross, He was buried, and He arose on the third day.
They also agree that Jesus ascended into heaven, to sit at the right hand of His Father, Our Heavenly Father, God.
So, what is the real problem??
Ultimately, what we believe, and our personal salvation is our choice and our responsibility.
God will hold us accountable for our lives..
If we spent more time trying to become better people, I mean just trying, we would not have either the time or inclination to cause grief for other people.
Give other people the respect you expect to receive....
Racism will not be the topic of this post, but it's blood cousin, discrimination, will be explored.
I am blessed to have six female friends who have impacted my life in ways they will probably never understand. Four of these women are Catholic.
We are all women of strong faith. We have shared our experiences from the different denominations we have belonged to over the years..
I grew up in a small town with an impressive representation of various religions. I was fortunate enough to grow up in a family who were actually members of different denominations. Except for an occasional tacky comment by a family member who had mastered the art of being 'tacky', there was an unspoken rule of respect regarding the personal belief system of each person.
Over the last twenty years, I have noticed the ease in which some people criticize the religion of other people. The strong boundaries that once protected a very personal choice, has become almost nonexistent.
Who has the right to tell another person how they should practice their beliefs?
I have seen women valiantly attempting to defend a ritual or practice that is dear to their heart.
I have seen the faith of women questioned by people who feel they are mandated to make them see their truth; by any means necessary. Except gentleness and caring??
I have seen women left in tears following an attack of harsh, unyielding words in an attempt to tear down the fiber of their religion.
It appears that those who have chosen to practice Catholicism, are quite often the victims of the most negativity from other denominations.
The disrespectful attacks can range from sharing an offensive news article, to aggressively asking questions that are designed to start a negative dialogue.
This is unfortunate. I reminded one of my friends that in most cases, the person is simply ignorant. Perhaps if they took the time to ask intelligent questions about things they don't understand, they would gain enough knowledge to be respectful, or at the very least, be quiet.
Some harp on the issue of sexual immorality in the priesthood.
Is there not an issue of sexual immorality among the clergy??
Yes, when children are involved, their punishment should fit the crime; for anyone who is guilty.
Is it power?
Yes, the Pope has an incredible amount of power, from the Vatican.
Yes, a popular,and well connected Pastor, also has an enormous amount of power, and he is standing in front of his congregation every Sunday.
Is it money?
It is my personal opinion that most organized religions are too focused on money.
Yes, yes, I know; they are businesses..
Now see, none of the denominations are perfect.
None of us are perfect.
Glass house?
Throwing the first stone?
Think about it...
It basically comes down to Christians attacking other Christians.
Why?
Are they unbelievers??
All parties involved believe that Jesus is the Son of God.
The same people believe that He was crucified on the cross, He was buried, and He arose on the third day.
They also agree that Jesus ascended into heaven, to sit at the right hand of His Father, Our Heavenly Father, God.
So, what is the real problem??
Ultimately, what we believe, and our personal salvation is our choice and our responsibility.
God will hold us accountable for our lives..
If we spent more time trying to become better people, I mean just trying, we would not have either the time or inclination to cause grief for other people.
Give other people the respect you expect to receive....
Sunday, April 27, 2014
World's Most Beautiful Women,,,Perspective of Sammye Kaye
I believe that since God made each of us in His image, we are all beautiful.
This particular view, along with a few others, has resulted in my being referred to as being too nice,(???) naive, delusional, 'polyannaish', and fake.
Since I have always been secure regarding 'who' I am, these opinions(?) mean nothing.
We live in a world that thrives on the superiority of someone, or some thing. I suppose it should be no surprise that physical appearance will no doubt remain first and foremost, the most important factor for many regarding worth.
A few select women anxiously await the announcement of who will be named the most beautiful woman in the world. This decision will forever impact their lives.
How much will the choice affect the lives of others?
It is a fact that both Beyonce' and Lupita are beautiful women.
The fact that young Black women can pick up a popular magazine and see a woman who resembles themselves being celebrated as Most Beautiful is nice.
Will this make them feel better about themselves?
I have chosen not to address the deep rooted issues that accompany our beautiful skin tones. There is no point at this time; we know what they are. Later.
However, I must point out the importance of affirming the beauty of our women within our families and communities; at all times. Our little girls need to learn how to accept the unique beauty of themselves. Next, they need to learn how to accept the differences and beauty of other women. These lessons must be taught by other women.
Women who love them, as well as themselves.
Will the handsome, or perhaps not so handsome young Black man who will smile and celebrate the beauty of Lupita, choose to do the same when he meets a young woman who is a dead ringer for Lupita ( minus the designer outfit and professional makeup)??
Will the obnoxious aunt who is so thrilled for Lupita, go back and apologize to her niece for telling her sister she needs to " buy that child a wig, because her hair will never grow!" "And, she looks like a boy!"
The magazine will be sold off the shelves. The celebrity news will move on to something else. But how many people who cross the paths of our little girls and young women will see and acknowledge their beauty?? Not the size and shape of their bodies, or the color of the skin, but their entire beauty.
.
It is not easy being a Black woman in this society.
We don't all look like Beyonce' or Lupita.
Thankfully, we are all uniquely different...
But, we are all uniquely beautiful.
How can I say that??
Because God simply does not make mistakes.
This particular view, along with a few others, has resulted in my being referred to as being too nice,(???) naive, delusional, 'polyannaish', and fake.
Since I have always been secure regarding 'who' I am, these opinions(?) mean nothing.
We live in a world that thrives on the superiority of someone, or some thing. I suppose it should be no surprise that physical appearance will no doubt remain first and foremost, the most important factor for many regarding worth.
A few select women anxiously await the announcement of who will be named the most beautiful woman in the world. This decision will forever impact their lives.
How much will the choice affect the lives of others?
It is a fact that both Beyonce' and Lupita are beautiful women.
The fact that young Black women can pick up a popular magazine and see a woman who resembles themselves being celebrated as Most Beautiful is nice.
Will this make them feel better about themselves?
I have chosen not to address the deep rooted issues that accompany our beautiful skin tones. There is no point at this time; we know what they are. Later.
However, I must point out the importance of affirming the beauty of our women within our families and communities; at all times. Our little girls need to learn how to accept the unique beauty of themselves. Next, they need to learn how to accept the differences and beauty of other women. These lessons must be taught by other women.
Women who love them, as well as themselves.
Will the handsome, or perhaps not so handsome young Black man who will smile and celebrate the beauty of Lupita, choose to do the same when he meets a young woman who is a dead ringer for Lupita ( minus the designer outfit and professional makeup)??
Will the obnoxious aunt who is so thrilled for Lupita, go back and apologize to her niece for telling her sister she needs to " buy that child a wig, because her hair will never grow!" "And, she looks like a boy!"
The magazine will be sold off the shelves. The celebrity news will move on to something else. But how many people who cross the paths of our little girls and young women will see and acknowledge their beauty?? Not the size and shape of their bodies, or the color of the skin, but their entire beauty.
.
It is not easy being a Black woman in this society.
We don't all look like Beyonce' or Lupita.
Thankfully, we are all uniquely different...
But, we are all uniquely beautiful.
How can I say that??
Because God simply does not make mistakes.
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