The Joy of a Black Woman
Embracing who I am completely has been such a long, twisted and often heartbreaking journey. Every day seems to be a new day to both learn and unlearn how to overcome the societal expectations, stereotypes, my own personal judgements of myself. While existing through all of these things, my path to authenticity has been both liberating and necessary. Although the journey can be overwhelming, consuming from time to time the joy I feel in my heart to live the experience as a black woman is what I want to share. Being a black woman is truly one of the most amazing lived experiences ever. The world would love to tell us there is no joy in the black woman’s life. In this blog we will explore the essence of enjoying your blackness as a black woman.
We have been told for years what the standard of beauty is set to those of Eurocentric ideals which for so long has kept black women trying to measure up. Over the last couple of years it has been refreshing to see the rise of black women refusing to meet that standard. Leaning into fully loving ourselves in how we show up in such unique and beautiful ways from our features, hair and skin tones. We are simply beautiful and deserve to exist in our bodies freely.
When we learn to embrace and love ourselves with pure love we then have the ability to inspire others with our story of authenticity. Your story of who you are, how you arrived where you are, your journey to exist and be you completely will help change the course of someone’s life. Your story is never to small to not share. When you tell your story of you, sharing your unique journey you give others around you the confidence and courage to do the same. It quite literally is the way we all take part in changing the world, one authentic story at a time.
I never felt pretty, never felt like I was enough, never felt like I had much to share with the world because it never felt like I was that spectacular. It sounds a bit odd as well as weird to both type that as well as remember I had that mindset. It has taken me years to truly embrace the beauty, the power, the love of being a black woman. The world has taught us how to dislike ourselves while consistently attempting to measure up.
Enjoying all your blackness is a transformative and empowering journey that begins with self-love, embraces cultural identity, and extends to empowering others through authenticity. By taking these actionable steps, black women can navigate the complexities of societal expectations, break free from stereotypes, and revel in the beauty of their authentic selves. Remember, your blackness is not only something to be enjoyed but a source of strength, resilience, and unending beauty. Celebrate it with pride, for you are a masterpiece in every shade and every aspect of your blackness, baby.