"Embrace the flats, naturals and sharps, as they are all necessary..."
Written by Dear Black Woman Anna Roby
Dear ReAnna, Black girl (now woman) from Raymond MISSISSIPPI living in Michigan….
I really do hope this message finds you well in all areas of your life and prospering as only you can. Since you were a wee girl riding down the hill in a red power wheels Jeep, you have found a deep seeded joy that allows you to bring a peace and hopefulness to navigating this time and that's something I admire about you. Given your spiritual gifts and the gift you are to this world, I pray you see yourself as your Creator sees you. Acknowledging how the last 30 years of life has been filled with transitions and challenges, you are still here. Your spiritual gifts and tenacity (along with the prayers and dreams of those who come before you) have brought you to where you are today and will continue to carry you forward the next half of century if not more . With that in mind, I implore you to continuously reflect on who you are and find strength and comfort in knowing you were created for good.
As you continue to grow, and know, and love yourself each day, remember how your presence not only disrupts, but brings light (light that warms; that draws others to you; and light that helps some folks find a way home). As you continue to sing songs from now to way back, remember your voice is powerful and has to ability to make things happen and give others hope (acknowledging that your gleeful optimism is expressed through continuous singing). As you continue to listen to the harmonies of life with a keen ear, embrace the flats, naturals and sharps, as they are all necessary in the perfect yet imperfect arrangement of your life. Lastly, as you continue to love and care for others selflessly, remember to extend yourself some of the same love, grace, and care.
“As you continue to listen to the harmonies of life with a keen ear, embrace the flats, naturals and sharps, as they are all necessary in the perfect yet imperfect arrangement of your life.”
“Caring for myself is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare.”
- Audre Lorde
"Even if it makes others uncomfortable, I will love who I am.”
- Janelle Monáe
“i found god in myself and i loved heri loved her fiercely”
- Ntozake Shange
“Lord keep her safe since you can't keep her sane.”
- Gloria Naylor