Yes, it may seem like a simple explanation, but, in reality, it is actually quite difficult. If it were easy, the problems that plague the Black community would not be what they are. So, if the images that you see representing you are, for the most part, caricatures with no soul and there is no importance placed on the contributions that your ancestors made to the society and you have to constantly battle racism and discrimination, how can you learn to love yourself?
First, we all need to recognize that we are alive on this earth because we are special -- yes, we are all special and we each deservebet reatedated with dignity and respect.
Second, we need to make ourselves aware of and take advantage of all of our available resources. Ignorance can no longer be used as an excuse for anything. There are free and low-cost resources in every community. Libraries are free and offerinternetternet services. Community organizations offer tutoring and cultural activities. We need to use what we have at our disposal.
Third, we need to realize that we have a light that shisuppressingpressing it does not serve ourselves or the greater community.
Fourth, we need to take stock in our communities. Every community is only as good as its inhabitants want it to be. Yes, neighborhoods are discriminated against and yes there are politicians that stay in office for years, because of apathetic voters. However, if we become active within our communities they can and will change. There was a time when the projects were considered a step up and provided people with clean, safe housing and children were able to participate in all types of positive activities. Although it sounds like a stretch, it can happen again.
And finally, surround yourself with people who love themselves and begin to love one another.
Of course there is more to it, but this is a beginning and we need to start somewhere. I believe that love is the foundation for all good and good to come. We, as African Americans, have had to deal with a situation where our ancestors were ripped away from all that they loved -- their homes, their language, their families and their culture. Then, they were forced into slavery where they were treated like animals and their capacity for love waned. They had to deal with the fact that anyone they gave love to might be ripped away at the drop of the dime.
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