The White Standard

Many blacks look down on the achievements of people of their own kind, but will sing praises of adoration for white people. Blacks have attained numerous distinguished achievements, however, many of our own have come to believe (whether by upbringing, the media or personal beliefs) that black accomplishments are not as impressive as those of white people. Unfortunately, this serves to diminish our spirits, belittle our accomplishments and keeps us from advancing not only in society but in the eyes of other cultures. Black people have been responsible for numerous advancements, and it's time we stopped looking to our white counterparts for validation.

Having black friends, dating black men and working for black establishments are all things we should be proud of and celebrate. There exists a myth that all white people are wealthy, successful and are heirs to great inheritances. This is about as true as the idea that all black people can sing, dance and love fried chicken. It's time we realized that for all black mediocrity and failure, just as much can be said for our white counterparts, but for as much success as white people have achieved, there is an equal amount of success by blacks.

Employing a white standard ensures that no matter how high a standard of success we attain as a people, we have achieved nothing at all. Instead, looking at an achievement as an achievement, encourages us to strive for excellence and a greater sense of pride.MM

Celebrating your Spirituality

Ask most black women, and they would say that spirituality means having a God and perhaps being a 'believer'. For most, spirituality has religious ties. For me, spirituality is a lot more than just conforming to a religion or believing that there is a God. To have and believe in a God is a wonderful and fulfilling experience and to belong to a religion, means I know people who have somewhat of the same belief systems as I do.

To be spiritual however, encompasses that and so much more. It is a belief that you get back from the universe, what you put into it. Positive begets positive and negative begets negative. That nothing lasts forever and hardships will eventually be overcome. It is a belief that we don't walk this life alone and that while there are forces working against us, there are also forces fighting on our behalf for our success and salvation. It is being directed by a force that can't be explained but you know is there and is leading you, guiding you. It is knowing that something good or bad is going to happen without any forewarning and the determination to embrace or change the outcome. Finally, spirituality is knowing that you are more than the you, you and others see and the drive to make that inner you come out and shine. It is life with purpose.

To all my sisters out there, spend some time with yourself and celebrate your spirituality.MM