A letter from a Black mother to a Black son
To my black son,
Although I am writing this letter at the right time to begin, Black History MonthThat’s what I want to tell you. Everywhere Day is a day to celebrate you. To celebrate us—Our culture, our history and our people.
Your skin should be treasured. It has been the subject of much strife, but there have been many testimonials. I pray you will remember and acknowledge the hardships that led to our successes. This will help you to have a deeper understanding of yourself and your history.
Related: The untold stories of the mothers of our Black History Month heroes
While you might not fully understand the meaning of these proverbs, as you grow, my hope is that they will be part of your memory, your heart, and your soul. Proverbs that tell us about the struggles of our people, the triumphs we have achieved and how we will continue to pave the way for the next generation.
Sometimes, the world will call us storms or people who cause destruction and mayhem. May you never see that as truth, but if anything can be taken from that, it’s knowing you have the power to stir up the very ground on which you walk upon.
This can be used to your advantage. You can use that as a Good thing. You can use that to make a real difference.
Injustice and other forms oppression may be part of your daily life. There will be those who want to keep you from realizing your true worth and from understanding your true value. They will do everything they can to make you doubt yourself. In these moments, don’t forget your foundation.
Keep in mind how I affirm you every day. Recall the truths my father and I have shared with you. Now go out into the world to share these truths with others. Lift up others. Spread love and kindness around you.
Your sweet revolution was born in your womb.
My black son should know this: Your mother is your constant, even when you feel like you don’t belong here.
It will be a reminder of how important it is to take care of yourself Do Because I made you, you have a home here. Your sweet revolution began in your womb. You came into the world because I believed you were capable of fulfilling a greater purpose than my own. And my only hope is to have the chance to witness you carry out your calling—and even lead others into their own.
Though your skin is not the entirety of who you are as a being, it is a huge part of molding you into the man you’re meant to be. While your father and me can do so much to shape you, there will come a point when you have to take the torch to the top.
It should never be a burden, nor a constraint. Instead, it should be the thing that gives you wings and allows you to live fully. You can learn from those who were remembered and honored during this time. Black History MonthYour family, friends and loved ones. May your heritage be a treasured thing that you will always remember.
To my black son, there’s something in you. I saw it from the very moment you were born, and you will spend the rest of your life finding that Greatness within yourself and sharing it with those blessed to encounter you in this lifetime—even if just for a mere moment.
Related: 26 picture books to read with your kids during Black History Month (and every month of the year)
You may have to prove your worth more than others, but don’t ever let that make you feel unworthy or incompetent. Because you have the heart of your mother and father—and you are destined to do and receive great things.
This world won’t ever guarantee your protection. It won’t always lend you a resting place that is safe and sound. You can, however, take refuge in the spaces created to support, encourage, and lift you up.
Your family is one such space. Your friendships will be such a space. You may find that your passions allow you to have that space. You may also, always, Always Find that place within you. You are my favorite.
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