HOSANNA!!!!

Remember Matthew 21:9? Does it say this?…………..

“Then the multitudes who went before and those who followed cried out, saying: “Hosanna to Vice President Kamala Harris!”

OR does it say this?……..

“Then the multitudes who went before and those who followed cried out, saying: “Hosanna to Former President Donald Trump!”

Y’all it’s bad enough to see the world putting their trust in political leaders and behaving badly because of it. But it’s just crazy to see people who say they are Christ followers showcasing deluded devotion to their candidate. And if that weren’t enough, it gets even uglier when “Christians” lead the pack in being the meanest and messiest. Insert face palm here.

Actually, Matthew 21:9 says this:

Then the multitudes who went before and those who followed cried out, saying: “Hosanna to the Son of David!”

Matthew 21:19

I just want to encourage my brothers and sisters in Christ to remember this verse. No matter how strongly will feel about our beliefs, our rights, or our money, we only have one Savior.

Aside: Please forgive me for leading with the first few paragraphs. I don’t think it was a proper introduction. Especially since I haven’t been here in a while. I just needed to get that first part out of the way in case you don’t care to read through the end. This post was one that I had to share. Didn’t want to. But I just needed to come here to say:

“I’m sorry but this not the time for us (the followers of Christ) to get hyped up about the rulers, potential rulers of this world – specifically those of this country. None of them can make our lives great.“

As we follow this election season, we who call ourselves “Christians” must battle to ensure our LORD is the One who has our attention and is our utmost priority. Should we be informed about the current political environment? Yes! Should we add our voice to debates in the public square? Why not? In fact, we must. But not because we are depending on the “right” politician to save us. We prayerfully engage (or prayerfully decline to engage) because:

• We are salt and light.
• Our wisdom, peace, and courage is to be shared.
• We are to be a city set on a hill.
• We are to be a light in the midst of gross darkness.
• If we are swimming in the mud with everyone else, how is the light of Christ to be shone?

We don’t belong to “Egypt” – the systems and ruling authorities of this world. So why are we relying on kings and princes to save us? Some of us have gotten so carried away with our political ideologies, ambitions, and affiliations that we have left our faith far behind. I truly believe that Isaiah 30:1-5 has a warning for us. Though there are ancient peoples and geographical locations mentioned in this passage, the message is clear: When the people of God turn away from Him to rely on others, they will ultimately bring us to a place of shame and disgrace. Only One can save.

“Woe (judgment is coming) to the rebellious children,” declares the Lord,
“Who carry out a plan, but not Mine,
And make an alliance [by pouring out a libation], but not of My Spirit,
In order to add sin to sin;
2 
Who proceed down to Egypt
Without consulting [a]Me,
To take refuge in the stronghold of Pharaoh
And to take shelter in the shadow of Egypt!
3 
“Therefore the safety and protection of Pharaoh will be your shame
And the refuge in the shadow of Egypt, your humiliation and disgrace.
4 
“For his princes are at Zoan
And his ambassadors arrive at Hanes [in Egypt].
5 
“All will be ashamed because of a people (the Egyptians) who cannot benefit them,
Who are not a help or benefit, but a shame and also a disgrace.”

Isaiah 30:1 – 5

For some of us “Christians”, our politics have become our idol. Our lord. Our god. We value and serve our political philosophies and opinions over the Word of God. We discard the parts of the Bible that don’t align with our personal views or our lifestyle. We gain confidence in our own “righteous” world view and elevate it above God’s word. We pick and choose scriptures that we like and dismiss the context and the rest of scripture that give full counsel and instruction.

This is not the time for that.

This is our time to stand in Him, which, in Kingdom terms, means to kneel. In the Kingdom of God, the only way to stand before Him is on our knees (humility and worship). You and I don’t know what we are going to face over the next four years. The most challenging or the most jubilant may not be influenced at all by who is president. But our next four years will certainly be influence by our God. If your “god” is your political opinions or public opinion, and you claim to be a follower of Christ, please take a step back. Examine yourself.

Think about this: You will know that your politics are your god when:

• you surrender everything (your mind, your heart, and your strength) to supporting and promoting your politics, political beliefs/opinions.
• you can no longer love people because their lifestyle, opinions, political persuasion/affiliations are not yours or are in opposition to yours.
• you support or promote ungodliness or evil under the shelter of your political beliefs/party.
• you deny or defend ungodliness or evil under the shelter of your political beliefs/party.
• you can disrespect, disregard, or dismiss the Word of God because of your political beliefs

I’m talking to Christ followers. We must be on guard against the above. We can expect the above from those in this world who are fearful. Some of them want to be in control or to know that whomever is in control will help them and what they deem to be important. We can expect this because they are not centered in the conviction that Jesus Christ is KING of Kings and LORD of Lords. They do not have the security of understanding that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose.  (Romans 8:28). They don’t know that it is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man. It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in princes. Psalms 118:8-9.

And how will they ever know, if WE live like we don’t know? If you have been publicly and privately demonstrating your fear of the opposing presidential candidate rather than your trust in the Sovereign, please stop.

STOP. LOOK. And LISTEN

STOP prioritizing Egypt.

LOOK at your King.

LISTEN to what He has said to His people and what He is saying to you. You will hear when you spend time in prayer, Bible study, worship, serving others and even fasting.

As Christ followers, we are not anti-government. However, we do recognize its limitations and we do not concede to injustice. Our Lord sends us, commissions us, and instructs us in all facets of society to praise and glorify Him and love others. But He does not need us acting up, being hateful or messy in order to accomplish righteousness. I admit, it not always easy to avoid participating in foolishness. . Especially with the political climate we are in. Sometimes we mess up. But you and I can do all things through Christ who strengthens us (Philippians 4:13).

Stop, look, and listen so that you can hear the still small voice reminding or instructing you through this season. And then do your civic duty as you feel led by the Spirit of God.

I love you and God bless!

Happy New Year!

2021 was a year filled with challenges. It was also filled with beautiful miracles. May we all learn to trust the Father in everything and find joy wherever He is.

My First Thoughts of the New Year

First off, thank you, LORD. Without you, how would 2021 have gone for me? I don’t even want to think about it.

Second, my goodness, 2022?? I thought we’d surely be floating in space suits by now. Thankfully we are not. I am not very fond of heights.

Third, I am grateful for this platform to share my thoughts, stories, and persuasions. I am also excited about the new friends that I’ve connected with through this blog site. Lots of good things to reflect on.

Writing for this Blog Site Came with Lots of Challenges in 2021

As I have taken time to explore, organize, and share my thoughts on this blog, I have been challenged. In many ways.  For each post I wrote, I’ve had to confront my fears about being on a public platform. What if someone I know and love reads one (or several) of my posts and decides to stop loving me? What if I am misunderstood? What if I offend someone? What if offer a view that is not “black enough” and someone tries to take my black card? Not my black card!!!! My brain is constantly calculating the what ifs. On top of that, I’ve had many confrontations with myself over my own hypocrisies, prejudices, and pride. I have felt lost and have had to pause until I felt the comfort of the Father’s guidance. I would say the most daunting of all challenges has been the push to walk circumspectly while tackling topics I may not have been ready to confront in my own character.  Ugh!

These challenges have been the most unexpected surprise I’ve dealt with while writing for this blog. Sometimes, during 2021, I was so overwhelmed with sadness, anger, or a lack of hope that I could not write anything. Most times I questioned whether or not this was a short-season gig or if it was meant to last. I don’t know, nor do I really need to, I guess. The thing that kept me coming back was the knowledge (or at least a small spark of hope) that at least one other person might be on this journey with me. I imagined that that friend was also in a wrestling match at the intersection of faith and race. I imagined that they too had utilized prayer, Bible study, and interactions with others to delve into racial discomforts with the hope that they could somehow be part of the healing.

What I Learned from Black and White and Shades of Green in 2021

The more that I read, learned, and wrote, the more certain I became about one thing: never be too certain. Certainty is a period. It’s not a comma, not a colon, nor a question mark. Certainty says, “Additional learning, not welcomed.” PERIOD.

Periods typically don’t solve relational issues. Periods are most appropriate for science, math, and grammar. But for explaining human relationships? Almost never. Race, racism, hatred, and oppression, all wear many outfits.  Not just the “obvious” ones. As believers, we must continually search our hearts and minds to identify that which is bent on division or selfish pride. There cannot be too many periods in such a search as pride is the king of the period.  

Another lesson that kept coming back to me was this: Our light will never shine brightly enough to impact our society if we resist humility. The humility is in admitting, “I don’t know everything”. I don’t know everything about:

• the racial issues in our country
• “white people” and why they do what they do
• “black people” and why they do things they do
• “Latinos, Asian Americans, or Indigenous people” experience our society
• the impact or reality of systemic injustices
• all the reasons why our country can lead in everything else but racial healing and equity

There are few things that I know so much about that I can be so bold or confident to resist hearing and trying to understand another’s perspective. This includes those I vehemently disagree with or have little respect for. Therefore, the conclusion of all this for me has been:  I will work hard to humbly listen and apply the gospel to myself before responding or forming a hard position on most things.

This is Why I Want to Keep Writing

Coming back to this blog, again and again, is almost like opening a can of worms. I ask myself: “If you don’t like worms and you know the can is filled with worms, why would you open it??” But then I answer: “But if you also know that there are some gold nuggets and maybe even some diamond chunks mixed up in there, why would you not?” So perhaps 2021, for me, was about worms and diamonds.

As a black woman, I have seen oppression from many angles. I could literally start a separate blog site on all the ways in which black women have historically and presently been overlooked, disrespected, dismissed, oppressed, and ignored. If there is anyone in this society who can point fingers at our society, I’d say it would be black women. From hair and name discrimination to healthcare disparities to maternal health outcomes to ridiculously low career ceilings to domestic violence to persistent unflattering media portrayals to legal inequities to lowest paid in the workplace, you name it; we can check the box for most poorly treated. And all of this is before adding any other potential “minuses” such as econonmic status, educational levels, or other power imbalances. If you don’t believe me, please research these topics for yourself. Sadly, this is not even an exhaustive list. But outside of a Bewitched episode, pointy fingers don’t change anything. I don’t write to point fingers. I’m not here to blame or make anyone feel guilty. I’m not interested in that. Besides, people’s attention can be held by pain and woe for only so long. It is important to be aware and to push for righteousness and justice in every area of society. My goal is to do so with tactics that encourage action and changed hearts.

One of the “worm-can” diamonds has repeatedly shone a light on this truth: “Every time I point a finger, there are three more pointing back at me.” When I listen to voices in the public square authoritatively declaring their positions with no humility, it lets me know that that theirs is a voice to be wary of.  When speaking of people and people groups, it is always wise to be more cautious than sure. And more importantly, always look at oneself first to see if you are already living up to the standards you want to hold others to. And then after that, grace and mercy, must be applied. Therefore, I’ve concluded that it is best for me to stay in this space: 

“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works…”

Hebrews 10:24

So I will keep opening the worm cans with the anticipation that something of great value will be found. If that’s where the gold nuggets and diamond chunks are, then so be it.

Again, Happy New Year! May your 2022 be filled with nuggets and chunks (the good, valuable kind).

This year has been interesting. Stating the obvious, I know. I’ve heard a couple people declare that they are just ready for it to end. I’m learning to understand the difference between chronos and kairos and how to apply them to my perspective of time. Life. Change. Challenges. Process. I think that such knowledge helps to make more tolerable and joyful the things that are hard to tolerate and find joyful.

Chronos describes the quantitative characteristics of time that are determined by the solar system which gives us, years, months, days, minutes, and seconds, and so forth. Kairos ascribes a qualitative character to time that is not initiated or bound by chronos time, though it might be ultimately measured by it. For me, “the end/beginning of the year” does not necessarily mean the “end of” much else. Such acknowledgments only tell me what numbers to look for on the chronos-keeper (calendar/clock/watch). They do not tell me what will happen on those days. I no longer go into the new year hoping or thinking that things will “be better”. That can happen or not happen at any time of the year. Instead, I have decided to be grateful, no matter what has or hasn’t happened up to the present time, and trust that the Father has a beautiful purpose for all of it.

With that being said, I find that each year it gets more challenging to get “into the Christmas spirit”. My annual resolve is to say “No” to everything that might overburden my schedule with busyness and interfere with true holiday joy. I’ve done OK with that one. Literally, like a C-. I started out with the lofty goal of getting my tree up the day after Thanksgiving. For some reason (or no reason) it didn’t happen. This has become a recurring theme. I have not watched a hallmark channel holiday movie or HGTV White House Christmas in years. Until 4 days ago, the Christmas spirit had eluded me. But last week guess what I did ……………… my own holiday crafts! Sounds like nothing, I know. But this is deeper than you might be thinking.

My Crafting Trauma Story

Violins, please…….

By the time I had made it out of 2nd grade, “the fates” had loudly pointed out my non-artistic hand. As hard as I would try, my art projects were assured to elicit smirks, laughter, or pity. This phenomenon perplexed my primary school brain. None of it made sense. I was a great reader and did well in my math and music classes. My coloring had improved and my writing and spelling were on point. Why couldn’t I do art???? That is when the world showed me that I was just another average (or below average) being. What was so hard about drawing a straight line or folding a sheet of paper???? Nothing, Yet, I seemed to be well below average at doing it.

After a while, I started just throwing my art into the trash or not doing the project to avoid showcasing my artistic inabilities. I chose to accept that I had terrible skills, but it would be my own dirty little secret. Since then, I have never looked back. Well, actually I do look back. Often. Every time I try to make something, and it turns out expectedly disappointing. Spoiler alert: Please don’t ever invite me to a Wine and Paint party. I will not come. I already know how my painting will turn out, and I just can’t handle it.

A Christmas Crafting Miracle

But this year, something unexpected has happened. This year I finally failed at failing at crafting, which means, I WON! I think. Here’s how it all happened:

My friend “B” has an impressive Christmas display of diy decorations. Even her Dollar Store materials were “upcrafted” to look like they came from Homegoods or Macy’s. Though “upcrafted” is not a word you will see often, be assured, it is a thing. B encouraged me to try making my own Christmas decorations. I refused. You just read my childhood story, so you already know this. Please also know that I know enough to know that buying NOT crafting is my best option. Our conversation:

The Greatest of Mistakes

As share this with you, I am reminded of this: The exploit (a bold or daring feat) begins with “yes”. It does not begin with our greatness or skill, it begins with our “Yes”. We have to agree to use the “little” that we have. Next, we see what comes out of it and then say “Yes” again. Rinse and repeat, rinse and repeat, again. Before you know it, you’ve accomplished a great victory. It’s the concept of “line upon line, precept upon precept….” The Lord directs or gives us as much as we can handle at the time. Then He builds on that level (like a scaffold) to get us to the next level.

“Whom will he teach knowledge?
And whom will he make to understand the message?
Those just weaned from milk?
Those just drawn from the breasts?
¹⁰ For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept,
Line upon line, line upon line,
Here a little, there a little.”

Isaiah 28:9-10

Application: How This Applies to Race and Faith

When it comes to issues of race in this country, it is much too comfortable for us to decide that the battle is too great and our potential, individual, impact to change things, infinitesimal. For those who are less impacted by racism, we hear:

• We can’t do anything about racism, why spend time giving attention to it?
• “That’s not my calling/passion.”
• “I don’t want to say/do the wrong thing.”

For those impacted by racism, statements can sound like this:

• “They won’t let us have anything”.
• “They don’t care about people of color”.
• “We can never get ahead because of the white man. “

On the surface, each of these may appear to be a true statement to the speaker. However, none of these is all-powerful (unless we continue to give in to them). The quote below is a challenge to each of us:

It is the greatest of all mistakes to do nothing because you can only do a little. Do what you can.

Sydney Smith

Let’s re-read that last line: Do what you can.

But how? I’m glad you asked. Remember the conversation (below) between God and Moses? It gives you the answer: Look at your hands.

4 Then Moses answered and said, “But suppose they will not believe me or listen to my voice; suppose they say, ‘The Lord has not appeared to you.’ ” 2 So the Lord said to him, “What is that in your hand?”He said, “A rod.”3 And He said, “Cast it on the ground.” So he cast it on the ground, and it became a serpent; and Moses fled from it. Exodus 4:1-3, 10-13

We all know how this story ended – with a great exploit. But it started with a “Yes” from Moses (after a lot of excuses, though). Ultimately he allowed God to use all of what He had or was (and wasn’t) to bring about God’s great plan.

Refuse to Do Nothing

Back to my Christmas crafting……………… Our recent church potluck yielded an abundance of live Christmas greenery. The main organizer, Faith*, is a gifted designer. She knows how to score the best foliage for event centerpieces. At the end of the potluck, she graciously offered them to anyone interested. When I saw that most folks were not interested, I shamelessly took as many as an Aldi paper bag could hold. The centerpieces were already clipped and arranged perfectly. All I had to do was grab them, transport them, and reset them on my own furniture. And that, I did! This might be considered cheating in Christmas decorating, but I’m not embarrassed. Go ahead, judge me. And enjoy doing it! I don’t care.

Next, B’s sweet voice came back to me. “You can do it. I believe in you.” Even though I didn’t believe in myself, I said “Yes” anyway and took the first step. I asked myself the same question God asked Moses, “What do you have in your hand?” I thought about what I had in the house and start with the pruning shears. I have pruning shears and a backyard. And that, my friend, is where it started! Every time I remembered something that we already had in the house, another decorating idea would come to me. As best as I could, I implemented all of my ideas one by one, step by step. Though my hands were empty when I first started, they were filled each time I said “Yes”.

• Pruning shears – kitchen cabinet
• Red berries and leaves – backyard
• Spray paint (silver and gold) – storage cabinet
• Wreath ring – attic
• 3 balls of holiday ribbon –attic
• Christmas tree ornaments – attic
• Wire cutter – husband
• Crafting wire- kitchen cabinet
• Christmas Bow tying tutorial – YouTube
• Ideas – mon cerveau

Resolve to Do What You Can

Personally, I struggle to take action if I am discouraged by the lack of an immediate result. It is truly a discipline to persist in and trust the process. I was tempted to excuse myself on the basis of my previous crafting experiences. Instead, I decided that I wanted an exploit!

Likewise, when it comes to tackling racial obstacles, misunderstandings, issues, it is best that we resolve to do something rather than nothing and to persist in our earnest efforts. At first, the outcome may not yield the expected ROI. But if we keep saying “Yes” to the thing(s) that we can do, then what we can do will grow and become more and more impactful. Our efforts may seem small at first but they end up proving to be much more than if we had done nothing at all.

Pray. Ask God for wisdom and the ability to see what is already in your hands. It’s your time to say, “Yes”. You can do it. I believe in you!

Merry Christmas to you, my friend!

*Not her real name

What Race Is Santa? That is a weird question to ask. I feel silly even asking. But I know that this question is a real thing. I’ve never seen “Asian” Santa décor in Lowe’s Home Improvement, Wal-mart, or Target. Why not? The Pew Center reported that about 42% of Asian Americans identify as Christians.

I’ve always had a curious relationship with Santa.

Should Christians include him in Christmas?

Is it Santa or Saint Nick?

Is he for black people?

Does Santa have to be white?

Don’t Feel Sorry For Me, I’m OK now, I think…

When I was little, Santa definitely had to be white. I would never have sat on the lap of a black Santa because that would mean I was sitting on the lap of an imposter. By my own immature deduction, if the Santa was white, then there was a real possibility that he was legit. I don’t know how my mind reasoned that. Actually, I do (enter whiteness theory, white default, internalized anti-blackness, and so forth). Without the mention of the states italicized in the previous sentence, such a state of mind would be considered a very curious phenomenon. Here’s why……….

When I was a little girl, no white man had ever shown any kindness to me. Not that I could remember. The only white man I remembered interacting with me was the salesman who worked at Belk Tyler department store. My cousin, sister, and I would go there with my grandmother on Saturdays, sometimes. It was a welcomed break from her weekly 3-4 hour grocery haul routine. He would greet us warmly, then ask my grandmother, “Who is this little boy”, while smiling and looking at me. The first few times he did it, I took it as a silly joke and laughed. But as time went on, I began to dread seeing him in the store. He would follow us around the store making such jokes, watching me get angry, and looking for the next opportunity to continue. Sometimes I would be so angry that my eyes would well up with tears. It was very humiliating.

I grew up “in the country”. My mom would typically dress me in jeans, a t-shirt, and tennis shoes to hang out at my grandmother’s house on Saturdays. My hair was not very long and was usually in a plaited or braided hairstyle for low maintenance. We were sure to be outside as much as possible, and there was no “prettying up” happening for that.

My grandmother and aunt would be chatting and looking for something specific, seemingly unaware of this man’s taunting. I would shout at him in my toughest, girliest voice, “I’m not a boy!” He would just laugh. He’d see my embarrassment but that didn’t stop him.  There was something about his way that made me feel, at that young age, that he thought I was ugly because I was black. No one ever told me that black was ugly or less than, but I felt that way whenever he was around. I would notice when little white children came in. I never saw him “playing” with them in the same menacing way. He seemed to be very kind to them. But, who knows? Maybe there is a white woman about my age, somewhere writing about the same experience with him! At any rate, I have since concluded that guy was just a jerk. I can see his face now, though I never knew his name. Average height, white male, white hair, glasses. Almost like Santa, minus the beard, red suit, and reindeer.

Nonetheless, he and Santa were the only white men in my life at the time. I was probably 4 or 5 years old. Actually, there was one more, *Mr. Baylor, the owner of Baylor’s store. It was a little country mart that was supposedly the gathering place for klansmen and white supremacists. Very bad vibes to be felt when my aunt would send me in to pay for gas.

Fast forward a few years. By the time I was fully out of the Santa stage, it was very clear to me that Santa could not be real. If he were real, then he would be the only white man that I knew of who wasn’t racist. You’d have to understand the town I grew up in in order to relate to the plausibility of my reasoning. That’s a whole other post. Or maybe Santa is real, and just like Mr. Belk Tyler, he likes to be mean to black kids. That would explain:

• why I never got that multi-level, fully furnished dollhouse that I asked him for
• all the toys in the JC Penney’s Christmas catalog that I circled, cut out, posted and wished upon a star for, that never came  
• And those cookies that we baked for him, that he never came down the chimney to eat. Was it because we had a wood burning heater instead of a fireplace? Or was it because, white Santa is racist???

Don’t worry; I have thought this through a bit more since then. I have come up with a more sophisticated conclusion.

Doing the Math on White Santa

Public Religion Research Institute (2017) said that 75% of Hispanic and Latino Americans are Christians. Pew Research Center says 70% of black Americans identify as Christian and 70% of Whites. PRRI (2020) said that 60% of Native Americans identify as Christians. The Pew Center (2012) reported that about 42% of Asian Americans identify as Christians. Though not exact, the numbers are close across the sources I reviewed for this post. I feel pretty good about using them to help illustrate my points. Disclaimer: I do not claim to be a sociologist or statistician. If my numbers are off to the degree that a margin error is statistically significant enough to upset the main point of this post, by all means, do tell.

Here’s how I put the data together to try to understand what my expectations of Santa should be.  Note: A review of the tables is not necessary to understand where I am going with all of this.  Feel free to skip down to “So What’s the Point?”

Race/Ethnic Groups Identified in Data Sources	Percentage identifying as Christian	2020 Census Population	Estimated number of Christians	Additional notes
Hispanic	75%	62.1M	46.6M	May include those who identify as white in the Census data collection tool.
White	70%	204.3M	143M	May include those who identify as Hispanic in religious research data collection tools.
Black	70%	41.1M	28.8M	May include those who identify as Hispanic on Census data collection tools.
Native American	60%	5.9M	3.5M	Data collection criteria are inconsistent regarding groups“.
Asian	42%	19.9M	8.6M	Data collection criteria are inconsistent regarding “groups” across research agencies.
Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander	–	689,966		Census identifies separately from other groups though religious researchers inconsistently included in the “Asian” or “Native American” category inconsistently.

Although it is impossible to come to get data that perfectly marries population numbers and Christian identity with 100% accuracy, I’m going with these numbers to conclude the following for our pondering:

Racial/Ethnicity Categories	US Population	Percentage of Total US Christian Population
“White” Christians	143M	62%
“Christians of Color”	87.5M	38%
Total	230.5M	(the above is based on data collected from religious research sources)

So What’s The Point?

In statistics, there is a formula that measures “significance”. Statistical significance lets us know if a thing is actually a thing or just a fluke, anomaly, or mistake. I’m going to say that the numbers above do beg that we acknowledge that there are enough Christians of color that we should see more non-Caucasian Santas in public, in retail, and in media than we currently do. I do acknowledge that numbers can be thrown together to tell any story the number thrower wants to tell.  Therefore, I encourage you to review Census and religious research data for yourself. Tell me if you think it’s reasonable, that in this country, at the present day, Santa should be white at least 90% of the time he is seen. I made up 90% because I have no data except my own observations. I feel that I’m being conservative with the 90%. Feel free to rebut. I think it might be impossible though.

I do understand that in the big scheme of things, a white Santa means nothing. Not a hill to die on. For one, many Christians do not celebrate Christmas with Santa, and two, some Christians do not celebrate at all. However, I think that it’s important for me to point out these things because there are still too many Christians who get offended by seeing a Santa of color. To them, it is a statement of “wokeness”, “political correctness”, or “reverse-racist”. For others, a non-white Santa can never measure up. Clearly illegitimate on the basis of non-whiteness.  To me, a Santa of color is none of the aforementioned. Quick question: If you took your kid or grandkid to the mall and waited in line for 30 minutes, only to get to the front of the line and see that Santa is black or Asian, would you:

• feel like your kid was cheated out of a real Christmas experience?
• be annoyed?
• look for another photo opportunity with a white Santa to legitimize the Santa experience?
• Do all of the above?
• Do none of the above?

Actually, this question is appropriate for Christians of all races. And while we are at it, what about Christmas angels, and tree ornaments? Why not use these small opportunities to show our kids that skin color truly is not a thing of negativity or suspicion. Let’s release the claws of racial/ethnic bias that are holding on for dear life.

Release …..

Breathe out.

Take a deep breath in……

Now, slowly exhale…….

Good job.

What I Really Believe About Santa

I actually don’t celebrate Christmas with “Santa”. However, I do love that Santa began in the tradition of a brother in Christ, Saint Nicholas, the Bishop of Myra. I have read that he came from a wealthy family and was compelled by Matthew 19:21 to invest his wealth in the lives of others.  He was known for using his wealth to rescue poor people with large and small donations. So this is what I think: Santa is based on the man, Saint Nicholas. Saint Nicholas, the man, based his life on the Savior. Therefore, my conclusion is that Santa should be a physical representation of what we understand as followers of Christ: love gives. Santa can and should be the person who is led by the sweet Holy Spirit to give to others. Because of love, God gave. Because of love, we give. There is no racial or ethnic limitation, restriction, or requirement on that.

So, even though St. Nicholas’ “earth suit” was white, your Santa’s does not have to be.  I would love to see pictures of “Santa” in every hue. If you have any, I invite you to share them with me in the comments section.

A joyous Christmas season to you and yours!

21 Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me. Matthew 21:19

*not his real name

Ever since I’ve been out on my own, Sunday afternoons after church have included nap time. My week is not right if I don’t get my Sunday nap. No one calls me and I call no one on Sunday afternoons. I don’t meet for lunch, go to MLM sales parties or afternoon tea. I go to sleep. You get the gist, don’t call me on Sunday afternoon.

Well, guess what happened last Sunday afternoon?

You are correct. Someone called me. In the middle of my nap. It was one of my aunts.

When Auntie Calls, I Answer

When I answered my aunt’s call, she immediately began yelling at me. You have to know her to understand this. 98% of her communication style is on “10”. If it is not, then it will be in less than 10 seconds. She is what you might call, eh, hmm…very expressive. With that being said, let’s just call her Aunt Ten-Ten for this post.

Very important note: Despite this yelling addiction, Aunt Ten-Ten is one of the most beloved people in our family. She is also one of the sweetest, most giving women that I know. This is why I am always happy to answer her calls. I love hearing her very loud voice. It is the song you never knew your soul needed to hear. Now back to our story…….

Here’s how the first part of the conversation went:

Aunt Ten-Ten (yelling): DO YOU KNOW WHAT TODAY IS?!?!?!?!

Me (half asleep and confused): Yes, it’s Sunday

Me: (silence followed by confusion)

Me: (more silence and still confused)

Me: December 5^th. Granddaddy’s birthday?

Aunt Ten-Ten (yelling again): AND WHAT ARE YOU SUPPOSED TO BE DOING?!?!?!?!

Me : (silence…. infinitely confused)

I’ll skip the rest of the details and get into it. Apparently, Aunt Ten-Ten called because she wanted some sort of public acknowledgment of my grandfather’s 108^th birthday. She assigned me to the task, I graciously complied. Albeit, a few days late but still happy to do so. My granddaddy is in heaven now and has been for the last 20 years. We still love him and want to remember him for his leadership in our family. It is still impacting us.

Granddaddy’s Legacy

My granddaddy, James Earl McNair, was given the head of family responsibilities from age 11 or so. This came about as a consequence of his 30-year-old mother’s passing. She was survived by her husband and their four children, ages 3-11. My granddaddy dropped out of school after 7^th grade to help his dad work the farm, care for his siblings and take care of the house. By the time his youngest sibling had reached 18 years old, granddaddy had met and married my beautiful grandmother, Ethel Lee Belcher. Together, they brought 14 wonderful children into the world (including my daddy).

Granddaddy always stressed to his children and grandchildren the importance of “getting an education”. He truly believed that education was critical to uplift for black people in America. He was a supporter of Dr. Martin Luther King’s philosophy and made sure that his children participated in integrating the local school system back in the sixties. He also supported the efforts of the local NAACP as he worked hard to keep the family farm that had been purchased and owned by his father and grandfather. Granddaddy succeeded in leaving a legacy of land ownership and self-determination to his descendants.

Granddaddy and Me

What I love about my granddaddy is that all his children, grandchildren, and some great-grands have our special stories about him and the way he impacted us personally. Here are some of mine.

When I was growing up, my grandfather was strict and had little tolerance for foolishness or anything like it. I rarely saw him laugh or show a soft or gentle side. To me, he seemed to be severely serious about EVERYTHING. My cousin K, who lived with him, had a completely different experience with him. Perhaps she was his favorite, who knows? I wouldn’t care though because his love for all of us was very evident. Besides, I would guess that if you are responsible for a huge family, there wouldn’t be much time for foolishness or idleness. Lucky for me, he was a hardworking man. From sun up to sun down (and beyond) he was out on the farm and not at the house. My grandmother was much more laid back and was a perfect balance for him.

The earliest memory of my granddaddy not being serious with us kids happened when I was a teenager. My cousin K and I were at the “old house” with him, doing some kind of work. Probably gathering tobacco sticks or something. When we weren’t looking, granddaddy spotted a dead, dried-up field mouse. He grabbed it and tossed it at us! We screamed and almost dislocated our limbs trying to avoid that thing flying through the air at us. We all had a laugh and returned to work shortly after. I remember thinking, “I didn’t know granddaddy could be fun!”

The longer granddaddy lived, the more he began to relax in his lifestyle and temperament. I got to experience more of his personality and learned that he was actually a pretty cool guy. He would even dance in family soul train line once a year, on Christmas morning.

When my granddaddy found out I was building my first home, as a single woman in my twenties, he let me know that he was happy for me. I had been keeping him and my dad in the loop of the building process on my trips back home. One afternoon as I was leaving his house, he walked me out and stood on the porch to see me off. As I approached my car, he called my name. I looked up and he paused before speaking. That’s when I realized that he was so choked up, he couldn’t get the words out.

Me: (very concerned) “Granddaddy, are you OK???”,

Grandaddy: “I……..I’m proud of you.”

Wow. I cannot tell you what happened to my heart in that moment. To hear him say that he was proud of me and to see it spilling out of him in the form of tears totally left me speechless.

Life Lessons from Granddaddy

Deacon James Earl McNair was truly a great man. Here are some of the things I learned from him. Some are direct quotes, others are lessons I learned from the way he lived his life.

• I am worthy to be paid fairly for my labor.
• All workers are to be respected.
• Regarding dating: Do not let a man pay for anything for me. That way he nor I will feel that I owe him anything.
• Everybody has to work hard. Even when tasks are divided up by gender, everyone works and everyone works hard.
• Anything you see that is beautiful, someone worked hard to create it and someone has to work to maintain.
• Get all the education you can. No one can ever take it from you.
• A husband and wife can achieve great things if they work together.
• Eat and “hursh”.
• Christians must love one another, no matter how they might feel about one another.
• Quote: I can’t help what you do to me, but I can help what I do to you. When I stand before God, that is what I will have to give an account for.
• Hymns from The New National Baptist Hymnal.
• Humility and powerful prayer go hand in hand.
• I will trust in the Lord until I die.

That last one is the legacy I most strongly identify with my granddaddy. Throughout his life, he called on the Lord for wisdom, provision, protection, and strength. In his last days, I remember being in his room when great pain would hit his body. He would call out, “Lord! Then he’d say, “You know….. You know….” This was his prayer as he’d clench his jaws and squeeze the bed rail until the pain subsided. My grandfather was always a very strong man. I knew that if this was his reaction, then he was enduring great pain. I was in his room, helpless and powerless to assist, yet praying silently with him. In those moments, I understood for sure, that his prayer was one of great faith. It clearly demonstrated his trust in the One who knew it all and was close even in the deepest valley. His five-word prayer contained so much power.

A Lasting Legacy

So, even though several of my cousins have already beaten me to it (days ago), this is my tribute to the hero of our family, Deacon James Earl McNair. I thank the Lord for sending my grandfather to impact this earth 108 years ago. I am also very grateful for all the unsung black fathers in

Lastly, the greatest and most profound legacy my grandfather left us is faith in Jesus Christ. The compass that guided his life, he faithfully left to each of us.

We love you, granddaddy.

My friend, Sofie Morales (who is also a newlywed – CONGRATULATIONS!!!) agreed to chat with me to share her personal story and insights into the Hispanic/Latino community. Of course, there is no way that one conversation can tackle all the nuances of such a diverse community. However, this one will definitely educate, empower, and encourage you to cultivate an open heart and mind. In our conversation, Sofie shares her story of coming into her Latina identity. She also discusses the role that her has faith has played in embracing and contextualizing her identity as a Hispanic/Latina woman.

This is the first interview and podcast episode for blackandwhiteand Shades of Green <insert hoot and applause here, please> ! I am so happy to have been able to record it with such an amazing person! I invite you to listen to our conversation and lean into celebration and appreciation of our Hispanic/Latino brothers and sisters. In this episode, you will hear Sofie candidly share her thoughts on National Hispanic Heritage month and what it means to her to identify as a Latina woman. Sofie also shares, from a very personal perspective, her thoughts trans-racial adoption in the church. Finally, Sofie graciously discusses her perspective on where the church is “getting it right” with regards to our Hispanic/Latino brothers and sisters and where we are lacking. Sofie speaks with practical wisdom from God’s word on engaging with others.

Sofie is full of life, wisdom, and passion for others. Check out her photo gallery to see pics that capture just a bit of who she is. Listen to her interview, you will love her!

• Podcast Location: https://anchor.fm/veronica-okam/episodes/Interview-with-Sofie-Morales-Faith–Identity-and-Connection-e18qgo7

Enjoy!

National Hispanic Heritage month has encouraged many opportunities to listen to other voices. I do get that for some folks this is a celebration, while for others it is a recognition or acknowledgment. I also know that for some, it means nothing at all. People of any race will fall into any of the three categories and this post is not a call for anything accept your ears.

Friends, Romans,Americans Countrymen, lend me your ears…

My biggest take away from this month is that we all sometimes forget how much diversity exists within specific communities of color or within ethnic groups. My son and I were recently talking about what it means to be black < but please insert your race/community here>”. The question seems straight forward at first glance. However, because of how western societies have done “race” in the world, “who” gets to be called “what” can get tricky, quickly.

What is race?

Is it:

skin tone?

how one identifies racially?

what one believe about race/ethnicity?

DNA percentages?

lived experiences and cultural exposure?

a combination of all of the above plus economic privilege (or minus)?

The nuances of a “black”, “Asian”, “Hispanic/Latino”, or “Native American” experience can quickly muddy the waters with resentment, unfair judgments, superiority, and exclusion. Ew. Communities of color get “othered” and lumped together because of one or two similar characteristics. As a result, diverse experiences and cultures are quickly swallowed in oversimplification or overshadowed by a greater cause that may unite us (namely fighting oppression, racism, inequity, and so forth).

There’s Something in it for You

Nationally recognized celebrations of communities of color remind us that there is so much to learn and know about one another. That learning is a valuable, beautiful gift to those of us who are learning. Our learning is a gift back to the people around us. Such celebrations also provide each of us an opportunity to inspect ourselves. We are making space to ask the question: “Am I am giving my best to my brothers and sisters of other races and cultures? Or, am I am comfortable operating within the ignorance of stereotypes and assumptions? To often, in the church, we want to forget race and the conflicts and misunderstanding that tend to accompany the topic. However, memory loss nor ignorance can erase reality. Let’s do our individual work toward unity by acknowledging the areas wherein we can learn and grow.

So, whatever your posture toward recognition of the diverse cultures in our country, please proceed with love. Let’s continue to seek to understand those around us and connect with them.

Hi Friends, I’m back!

So let me start by saying that the title of this post was thoughtfully constructed for the sole purpose of sharing a picture of my cat. Although the title/picture combo can be loosely connected to the actual content of this post, it’s a bit of a stretch. But I think it’s worth it. May you be mesmerized and inspired by the Prince of Egypt, also known as Moses the cat. Now that I’ve got that out of the way, let’s get into what was dragged in.

Although it was unplanned, I am very grateful for the time off. You know how life gets busy and new routines fall to the side? Well, that happened. I could cite the list of summer derailers and distractions, but, who cares anyway? I just want you to know that I am back and happy to see you again!

While I was away, I observed and thought about so many things. The main thought that kept coming us was:

“Why do I feel the need to keep talking about race?

Of course, every time I had that thought, I’d read an article or listen to Christians ignorantly espousing their racist perspectives with no clue about their implications on the “unity” they claim that mentioning race destroys. Oh, the irony! Quite obviously, I concluded that there are many reason to continue to talking about race.

There are very few things in this Christian life that are one and done. Sanctification is a process. Dealing with issues of race (or choosing not to) are part of that process. How many times have I had to choose to love someone who has not demonstrated that they understand the importance of acknowledging this thorn in the flesh? At the same time, how many times have I had to give myself a reality check and put this issue in its rightful place? Race is not God. Nor are my positions, views, or preferences. I refuse to be the type of person who cannot live in love because I am bent on my point of view.

So, I will continue. I will write. I will wrestle. I will pray. I will get angry. I will forgive. Rinse and repeat. The times that we are living in are much too dire for the body of Christ to be divided or to be silent on issues that bring destructive pain within the body of Christ. We cannot ignore. We cannot be silent. To worship Him in spirit and in truth, does not mean that we ignore and recuse ourselves of engagement in the affairs of this life. It is quite the opposite, as it positions us to allow Him to use us to be part of the healing and the solution.

Hi Friends!

As I run around out here in these internet streets and also connect with real, live, human beings, I am see something beautiful. It is the growth of healthy, organic movements within the black community. I’ll call them movements because I believe they are bringing about a change that in the future we will be able to tangibly quantify. Such movements are not new, but there seems to be new momentum and expansion happening these spaces. People are moving differently. Not for clout or glory, but because they refuse to accept the “status quo” for their lives. I can’t wait to talk about them with you!

For this post, I have identified 3 organic movements that are happening for the sole purpose of growth, change, progress, and community. At least for now, there is no one “leader” or singular formal organization attached to any of this work. For me, this piece is important. As we know, once a leader and organizations form, it is not long until politics, selfish ambition and greed come along. Such intruders can dilute or kill the movements’ potency. Don’t worry, I understand that there is a place for organization, standard practices and processes. But some things need time to grow, undisturbed.

I am praying that the following 3 “movements” will continue as a quiet revolution. At least for as long as they can be effective as autonomous initiatives. In the coming weeks, I’ll bring you more movements that I’d like to highlight to you. Consider adding them to your list of prayer points for the “black community”.

#1 Openly and respectfully addressing mental health

When I was growing up, it used to be that therapy was for “white folks” or “crazy” people. Anybody who was seeing a mental health professional was doing so in secret. Any knowledge of it would result in said person being called “crazy”. I am grateful that today we are realizing more and more that such a paradigm is born out of fear and ignorance. More individuals are coming forward to share that they have therapists for themselves, their marriages, or their children. Others are speaking out about mental illness and how they are being helped and supported by therapy, doctors, and medication. Additionally, some black Americans that have grown up with fear and anger or traumatic environments and are speaking out about the damaging effects to their mental health, relationships, and careers. Black people have always prided ourselves on being “strong”, but more of us are starting to understand that courage is just as powerful. Having the courage to face what ails us gives us a much greater advantage than deceiving ourselves and running away from the vulnerabilities that cripple us. This is significant for us. If we can properly respect the power of and care for this gray matter between our ears, what we can accomplish is untold.

#2 Preventing the Mis-Education of the Negro* with Homeschooling

Did you know that homeschooling is on the rise in the African-American homes? Even more so since the pandemic. Additionally, most black homeschoolers have a least one parent with a bachelor’s or master’s degree level education. Some black parents who have experienced discrimination in the school setting have opted for a more affirmative, inclusive, learning environment for their children. Such parents are aware of the studies and data that highlight the pitfall of the American educational system for black children. Black boys and girls receive harsher consequences for lesser or same behaviors as white children. This is actually a norm and not an anomaly. For these reasons, homeschooling has continued to rise in the black among black families. The black community has always understood that education is one major way for us to build self-reliance and capability within our communities. Forbidding enslaved black people to read and be educated was our first clue that education could be a powerful ally. Just look at how the black literacy rate sky rocketed after slavery! Homeschooling families do not have to accept low expectations, discrimination, “white-washed” curriculum, or any other negative that come with a mass educational system. Although not everyone would agree with homeschooling, no one would argue that public school settings are designed for the social, intellectual, and spiritual success of black children. For these reasons, I see the rise of homeschooling for black children as tool of both resistance to the status quo and empowerment.

#3 Using social media to address taboo topics

This, in my opinion, is a big one. Black folks have long had those conversations that we address privately but never in front of white people. We do not believe in airing our dirty laundry. However, with the prevalence of internet engagement, this veil has disappeared. Anyone can go to YouTube, twitter, Facebook and other social media to learn all about how black people are navigating blackness in America. Aside from systemic injustices. Though some of these discussions have to do with having a black face in a white space, many also target anti-black sentiment within our own community and other “taboo” topics. Public conversations are being had about:

• Colorism
• Interracial relationships (black women/non-black men and black men/non-black women)
• Black male rejection of black females (in favor of females of other races)
• Black female rejection of black males ( in favor of males of other races)
• Fatherlessness
• Growing up in a single parent home
• Toxic parenting
• Toxic family dynamics
• Black ignorance
• Black church dysfunction
• and a host of other conversations previously held in confidence because of backlash from others in the “black community” OR because these are discussions we typically don’t want white people meddling into.

These topics tend to carry much pain and trauma. Collectively, they affect a large swath of black Americans. No, we don’t have national black conferences, events, to address these issues as a community. With good reason: these conversations can get messy and go ugly, quickly. However, they are necessary for identifying some of the root causes of dysfunction and disadvantage that many black Americans experience. Social media has provided the platform for these conversations to happen outside of our family and friends. I think that’s a great thing. The transparency that social media platforms provide these discussions is pretty revolutionary. Black people are finding: (a) that they are not alone in their experiences and (b) there other black voices that affirm the truths that must be told. This is a huge step to a healing process that I believe is critical to the full freedom we seek as a people.

Let me know your thoughts on these movements. Are they beneficial? Are you participating in any of them? Are there others that I have overlooked? Next week, I’ll bring you 3 more ways black Americans are empowering from within.

*Reference: The Mis-Education of the Negro by Carter Godwin Woodson

So, I recently visited with my dad. That is always a joy! Almost every time my dad and I are together, we talk about family farm business or its history. Many times both. As always, I ask questions, lots of them. Cause, that’s what I do. I was and still am a “Why?” kid; big on context questions. And, dads know everything of course, so mine always obliges.

“Who owned this farm before 3-GA we bought it?”

“How much land did 3_GA own?”

“What happened to the rest of it?”

“Why did it happen that way?”

“Are there any records or is this just family hearsay?”

GGGA is Great-great-grandfather-Anthony.

Fortunately, Dad is pretty patient and diplomatic with me. When we get to the last “Why” that he can stand, he will just say, “I don’t know, baby”. Most times his tone is very sweet. Other times, I can see my grandmother’s words coming out of his facial expression. She used to say: “Chile, you is one “worsome” girl!” Lol!

Most times, stories about black land ownership from post-slavery through the 1900s include at least one instance of land theft, sabotage, or destruction. By white people. This is why black farmers were given special consideration in one of this year’s most publicized stimulus earmarks.* And as usual, certain white people are fighting tooth and nail against black landowners receiving it.**

Tales of Land Stealing

Now, back to our farm story. Apparently, “back in the day”, a family by the name of Snowe* was notorious for duping blacks out of their property.

Dad said: “Yeah, Mr. Snowe had so much land! He had houses all over town and every house he owned was red.” According to my dad, many of the Snowes’ properties had been gotten through trickery, taking advantage of the poor, or unscrupulous agreements. For example, they would make loans available to those who were desperately in need with terms that overwhelmingly favored the lender. Such agreements were designed to quickly entrap the borrower in a cycle of intense indebtedness. When the borrower could not pay, the Snowes would confiscate the land/property. Their dealings helped them to snap up the farms, homes and land of many blacks. Probably some poor whites, too. In addition to their business practices, they had the connections in town to avoid the scrutiny and legal ramifications that would have curtailed such activities.

One might ask: “What’s the big deal? It’s just business. The Snowes provided a service with terms of agreement. The borrower agreed. So what if they lost everything. They should have shopped around for a better deal.”

If I were clueless, or valued being greedy for gain at the expense of the downtrodden, I would absolutely agree with you. But really, if you have the love of God in you, you most certainly cannot reason that exploitation of the poor is holy or righteous. If you do, please rethink that and identify the disconnect between your thoughts, your heart, and the faith you say you possess. And, read your Bible some more. The Bible does not support exploitation of the weak for personal gain, whether in personal or business relationships.

What the Snowes did is not unique. At all. It is part of our American history that includes disenfranchisement of non-white and poor people. The Snowes were/are not the only family, individuals, or businesses to target disadvantaged communities for shake and bake type transactions. When reparations proponents ask for redress, it is not just about enslaved ancestors. It’s about the cumulative effect and ongoing practices of our country’s anti-black economic stratification.

Please forgive me if I am beating a dead toboggan (the southern kind). I don’t want to offend any animal lovers, so, toboggan it shall be. If Jesus said to “do unto others as we would have them do unto us” and one consciously and strategically concocts an agreement in which they legally bind someone who is incapable of understanding its legal terms or incapable of meeting the conditions but whose circumstances are so desperate that they have no choice for survival except to enter into questionable agreements – all so that you can end up with their personal property, I would say that’s more sinister than “just business”. It is thievery and land stealing.

It’s amazing how easily my dad can recall these stories. The surviving descendants of the Snowes as well as those whose land was stolen still live with the benefits or losses that resulted from these “transactions”. In fact, one of the Snowes illegally “sold” a small portion of a black family farm as recently as the last 20 years or so. As of today, the perpetrator has refused to correct the situation. Despite multiple confrontations with the victimized family. This is only one current case that I am aware of. Who knows if there are others?

Why Won’t Black People Just Get Over It?

That was a long time ago and we all know that racism is wrong. Why won’t black people just get over who stole what and bad things that happened by and to people who are not alive anymore?

OK, so number one, racism, racial oppression/bias, and white supremacy are not over. They are all still here and still producing and reproducing.

Number two, how is it that white people are able to issue a statute of limitation for holding our systems accountable for racial oppression when white people are not affected by the racial injustices of this system? I’m going to call that a “conflict of interest” and ask those eager, legal, beavers to recuse themselves from the “get over it” process. Did you see what I did there? I combined “legal eagle” and “eager beavers” to connote the picture of someone who is eager, but unqualified and thus not an eagle. Makes sense to me but, nevermind…..

Let me say, for the record, that I am, emphatically, a proponent of forgiveness, healing, and restoration. I believe that these are balms and are most critical to resolving our country’s “racial” issues. However, that does not equate to ignoring what was and how it impacts what is. Pain exists for a reason. That reason is that something is wrong and needs to be made right. Once that happens, the pain can go away. Let’s think about our country’s racial wounds and healing process in a more practical way:

• Some wounds need a little time to heal.
  • Example: “Ow!” Timmy bumped my head on the couch.
• Some wounds need surgery before restoration can occur.
  • Example: “Ow!” Timmy bumped his head on a brick because he flew off of his bike.
• Some wounds need multiple surgeries, follow-up treatments, therapy, and specialists of over a long period of time before full restoration occurs.
  • Example: “Ow!” Timmy bumped his head in a serious accident and survived my the grace of God with serious injuries all over his body.

Why do some American Christians insistent on treating a major trauma with a band-aid? Here’s a little poem I wrote to further reiterate the point:

“Roses are red,

Violets are blue,

racial wounds in this country are deep,

and a band-aid won’t fix them. “

So to answer the question: “Why won’t black people just get over it?” ……. My answer is that, our racial wounds are not “bygones”. They are not an “it” to be hopped over like a tiny puddle. Minimizing or dismissing the impact of racial wounds is the culprit of uncontrolled infection, further injury, pain, and further deterioration. I’m really feeling this medical profession vibe.

Breathe.

But hang in there with me.

We’re almost home.

It is easy to say “Let’s all just get over it and stop talking about ‘it’” when you’re not the one who has anything to get over. Or when you have benefited from or been a perpetrator of injustice. If you are not the one who has suffered the injustice then you are not the one to tell the person who suffered the injustice to get over it. You do not have that right. You do not have that authority. You cannot be trusted. Why? Because that is a selfish response. That response says, “Hey, your wounds makes me uncomfortable. Please stop hurting so I can feel better. Or at least stop doing it in my presence. Your killing my vibe.”…….. Not cool.

A Prescription

Take two loves and call me in the morning…

To my white brothers and sisters in Christ, YOU, can be a blessing and a channel of healing. Listening, supporting, nurturing, opening doors, and delivering with your service rather than your opinions are all very much needed. Or, if you can’t do or say anything restorative, encouraging or life giving, you could just shut up. It’s OK, just don’t say anything. I’m not trying to tell you what to do with your mouth or your choices. You are not my follower. You are Christ’s………………………….I’ll just leave that there.

And, for the record, I also believe that Black Americans have to fight injustices while being responsible for those variables which we have control over. We can read, research, build, save, raise our families well, and love one another well. We can’t hate every white person for what some white people do. As a Christ follower, hating white people should not even be named among the tasks of our daily “To do” list if we are serious about justice.

We all have a part to play in this mission. Dare I say this: black Christians can remember the past without living in the victim-hood and white Christians can do the same without guilt or arrogance. We all must allow our understanding of what was, what is, and what needs to be, to shape our actions, reactions, and interactions.

Restoration, Redemption and Reparations?

I chose not to use the real name of the “Snowe” family for one reason: I serve a God of forgiveness, redemption and restoration. Who am I to presume that others do not deserve the same?

To continue my dad’s story, some of the Snowe descendants have had their own personal realizations about their family’s history of perpetrating injustice. As a result, some have given land back to black families or sold land under very generous terms and conditions. Others have chosen not to associate with the Snowe legacy and have publicly reputed the family’s dealings. What’s more: I do not know all the present day Snowes. For all I know, some of them could be flying BLM flags on their front porches and advocating for a national reparations program for descendants of enslaved Africans. I don’t know. By the way, if any Snowes are reading this blog and you are doing any of the aforementioned, please do tell!

Only God knows the truth behind all the stories, the gains, the losses, the motivations, repentance or lack thereof. That’s His business; He is the Great Judge. He has a way of working in us and through us to bring about the ultimate best – in His way and His timing. Our only job is to submit to Him and allow Him to use us as a part of that beautiful restorative process. If anyone refuses His great grace and His way, then that’s a conversation that will be had with Him on that great judgment day. That has nothing to do with blog post, so I’ll end here and let you think about that one.

*This is not their real name.

**Check out the work of the President of the National Black Farmers Association, John Boyd to learn more: https://www.blackfarmers.org/about

They say that a picture is worth a thousand words. These must be worth 10 million. There is something about being at the beach that helps me understand life as it should be. Being at the ocean, at the edge of continent, inspires me to manifest the perfection of God’s plan in my life and in the world around me.

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When I see these guys just enjoying life, and I realize how much I enjoy observing them, a thought pops into my mind: “What if every black boy in America were this much loved and celebrated”. By everyone. What if, from the time they could walk, until the turned into responsible men, everyone they met greeted them with joy and affirmation?

This is actually a new thought for me. I had never had this thought in my entire life until maybe six months ago. And I think a lot! Have you ever thought about how the trajectory of black men would be different IF in childhood they were loved, celebrated, encouraged, protected, and given the benefit of the doubt by all? Try not to let your brain break at the thought. Mine was really surprised when it came up, because I have never had the thought nor heard it discussed before. I wonder why?

Black Boys: Of a Very High Standard

A few weeks ago, I was at a small, public, outdoor, gathering. My daughter and I noticed a family close by. Their little 3ish year old daughter, for some reason, was trying to get our attention. She was playing by herself but kept moving closer and closer to where we were sitting. When we finally made eye contact with her, she just smiled. Ear to ear! Of course, we smiled right back at her. She was beautiful.

beau·ti·ful

/ˈbyo͞odəfəl/

of a very high standard; excellent.

Though the little girl had lovely, curly, blond hair and amazing, green, eyes this is not the beauty I am referring to. It was her essence that was beautiful. A little soul eager to embrace the joy and attention of the moment. It was almost as if she knew that she should be getting attention! In her soul, she seemed to know that she was of a very high standard and excellent. I would guess that she has gotten lots of adoring attention, just on cuteness alone.

Here’s something to really think about: What if every child were greeted, fawned over, and given princess/prince treatment by everyone they encountered? Do you think it would make a difference in how they developed? Do you think they would grow into confident, loving adults? I do. I also believe that black boys are also of a very high standard and excellent. They are beautiful too.

Made in God’s image. Worthy of adoring attention. Ripe for affirmation.

I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works, And that my soul knows very well. Psalms 139:14 NKJV

Black Boys: What Do You See?

What do you see? Or do you see black boys at all? The data is out there that highlights the disproportionate disciplinary consequences that black boys receive school (public and private) for lesser or similar offenses as other students. How is this happening? Maybe it has do with what one thinks automatically when they see black boys:

They are up to no good. They are undisciplined. They don’t follow directions. They don’t want to learn. They are unintelligent. They have no future. They are aggressive. They are intimidating.

And to be clear, such negative perspectives come from people of all races. Sometimes even, other black people. Insert heavily gritted teeth here (mine of course).

I do not endorse such negative characterizations.

The picture above says more to me than I could ever share with the world. The ocean seems to be the only force (so far) that understands him, embraces him and challenges him with the intensity he seeks in life. I remember my first few days with this guy. My heart was so full. It was full of joy and fear at the same time. I looked at his beautiful face and wondered how I could protect him from the world. The late, great, Nancy Wilson’s song, “If I Could”, has visited my mind on several occasions from then until now. If you see him at dusk riding his bike with an untamed afro, what would you think of him?

This guy here is the one who made me a MOB (Mom of Boys). If “Unbothered” was a person, it would be this guy. He does not seek to impress and does not care to be part of any crowd. Yet, he has many friends and is probably the most merciful, sincere, person I have ever met. He’s so practical; when he was in elementary school he went through a phase of sending parenting videos to me to help me out. I watched them! But if you see him walking down the street with his hoodie and basketball, what would you think of him? Mrs. Wilson’s song plays for him too.

What Then Shall We Say ?

I’d like to encourage you, the next time you see a black boy (small child or teen), take a chance. Show him unselfish love. Please be clear, I feel this way about all children, and I encourage this level of affirmation for all of them. But in this post, I’m specifically asking those of you, regardless of your race/ethnicity, to do this for a black boy/teen. Now, I’m not gonna lie, if you don’t like teenagers, this is a hard one! We all know how teenagers can be <no further comment>. But they still need our love, affirmation, and guidance, just in a different way. Or, if you don’t like small children, this is might be tough for you as well. Little ones might like you right back and give more attention then you care to entertain! It’s OK, see them and affirm them. Plus, you can do all things through Christ, right? That includes taking a chance to be nice to someone else’s son. The Lord can help you with some ways to do that:

• Smile at them
• Say “Hello”
• Ask about how school is going
• Give them a high-five, fist bump, Covid-shake or whatever
• Ask what project or hobby they are working on
• Include them in a special activity or event (with parent’s permission of course)
• Trust them or give them a responsibility
• Show patience when you see immaturity

As followers of Christ, we must always remember the love, kindness, and grace that God has show to us. As adults, we are the leaders and we lead by example. We can be the example of confidence, kindness, and strength that we want the kids around us to grow into. A big part of that is connecting with them in order to do so. Kids are like plants in that they can’t grow healthy and strong alone. They need help from the environment (the sun, the rain, the soil) and their tender(s). Our Father in heaven has set the example by loving us into Himself. We are equipped to do the same for others.

The LORD has appeared of old to me, saying: “Yes, I have loved you with an everlasting love; Therefore with lovingkindness I have drawn you. Jeremiah 31:3

So, as we continue this journey toward unity and justice, let’s do our part to affirm the worth and value that God has already placed in His creation.

Black boys: we see you. we affirm you. we value you.

When I hear about Christians getting up in arms about Critical Race Theory, systemic injustice, white privilege and other perspectives that counter white supremacy in this country…

When I see these same brothers and sisters in Christ arguing and taking defensive postures against the above concepts and they don’t even really know what they are…

When I see Christians on social media perpetuating “hateful Christian” stereotypes…

When I read another story of an unarmed black person being shot by the police…

When I read another report of a young black man being killed by another young black man…

When I see good people allowing politics to control to their love meter…

When I remember that there are people in the midst of all the culture wars who are just truly hurting from loss, loneliness, rejection, illness, hunger, violence, food insecurity, and all other forms of suffering…

I look around at all these things and feel hopeless. Then I look at myself and feel powerless. Next, I look up, and remember how big God is. Finally, I ask Him to show my part of the mission and to help me to do it. No matter how insignificant it may seem.

Look around and be distressed, look within and be depressed, look to Jesus and be at rest.

– Corrie Ten Boom

I’ve received Lands’ End Kids catalogs for years. This is the first time I’ve noticed this much diversity in one issue. I don’t remember ever seeing a catalog like this. I care about this because representing diversity is one way to say to everyone:

“You are welcomed here. We invite you to be part of us and we want to serve you with our product”.

I want to commend Lands’ End and every other company that has recognized that they have ignored a huge customer base that could help increase their profits. Wait, did I just commend them or call them out? I think it was both. Let’s be real, every business is about that bottom line. If being “woke” will boost the numbers, then by golly, let’s wake up.

“Good Morning, dollars!”

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Why Am I Coming for Lands’ End?

Truly, I’m not here to slam Lands’ End. I truly appreciate their display of diverse kid model talent for this “back to school” issue of their sales catalog. One would think that putting so much effort into pictures, would signify a commitment to racial diversity that shows up elsewhere in the company. That being said, I would appreciate knowing if:

• this same level of diversity exists within Lands’ End employee base, particularly in senior and executive leadership roles?
• Lands’ End’s list of vendors is as diverse as this issue’s models?
• Lands’ End’s black employees are promoted on potential just as frequently as other employees are and are receiving equitable pay?
• Lands’ End’s leadership and policies include perspectives that reflect depth in understanding diversity and inclusion beyond cover models?
• Lands’ End’s philanthropic and charitable initiatives touch marginalized communities in their headquarter city in a meaningful way?
• Lands’ End has been vocal, in any way about Wisconsin’s deep racial disparities?

Actually, I’d like to know this about all the corporations that have become “woke” in the last 12 months. This list can also be applied to churches, Christian businesses, and individuals who claim to be diverse and inclusive.

Quite honestly, this post is less about Lands’ End and more about true solidarity. Lands’ End is a brand run and operated by people who may or may not be comfortable choosing the discomfort that comes with creating space for diversity and inclusion within its culture, investments, and affiliations.

A Challenge for You

As you make decisions in your place of employment, business or service, please be reminded that this is a long road. All of it – diversity, inclusion, ally-ship, fellowship, solidarity, et cetera,- is a long, winding, road. The road must be walked every day and models on a page is not the end. Wherever you are, be bold and push for more. Don’t be satisfied with “representation”. Aim for actualizing the beauty and power that God has already expressed in His creation. Skin tones, features, cultures, backgrounds, and experiences can not be singular nor exclusive if we are to sincerely embrace the glory of our heavenly Father as presented in His creation.

Hi Friends! 

I remember my confusion when it started to crystallize for me that lots of Americans believed that Christians had to worship their country in order to be good Christians. The messages would not explicitly say, “Worship America”. But, the innuendo and sentiment were that America is the best country on earth, the founding fathers were all godly, righteous men who constructed a perfect country, and capitalism was God’s ideal economic system.  I was confused that none of my Sunday School teachers nor my parents had ever told me that God had chosen a political party. I had not grown up in a church that mixed the Gospel with politics. I thought I had missed something very critical to my faith foundation. In the church I grew up in, we had those Martin Luther King, Jr. fans and leaders and members of the NAACP in our congregation. They would make an announcement to remind the adults of the responsibility to vote at election time. But, none of this was intertwined within the Gospel of Jesus Christ. They were distinct and separate from the Gospel – at least enough for me to know the difference. Such announcements were more like a commercial break and not actually the regularly scheduled programming. However, after I connected with other Christian groups and churches in college and beyond, this relationship between Bible truth, Christian duty, and specific political stances became more and more visible. Maybe I had missed something big or was just doing my Christianity wrong? None of my Bible studies nor meditations had led me to a specific, universal, “Christian” political agenda. However, in some Christian environments, this almost seemed to be a given. Part of the discipleship process was: “You must believe XXX and vote for YYY (or not) if you are going to be a real Christian.”

Silliness: Politics and Division in the Body of Christ

Unfortunately, brainwashing does occur in Gospel settings. To be clear, there is a washing of the mind that occurs as we understand the Gospel. Out with the selfish, self-serving, fearful, prideful ways of life, in with the loving, redemptive, nature. This is not brainwashing, this is transformation of the heart and mind that is promoted by the scriptures. There is a difference between this, and the brainwashing that occurs in “Christian culture”. The latter is driven by the agenda of man. At some point, I realized what was going on and decided to opt out of it. But it seems to still be going on. As always, it’s easier to see this in someone else than in ourselves. Many conservative evangelicals are quick to recognize this brainwashing when it comes in the form of “Prosperity Gospel” but not so quick to recognize the brainwashing of Christian nationalism and patriotism.. We have codified them into Christian culture and rhetoric as salvation-blocking. Maybe you’re thinking “Really?” Here are some examples:

• If you say, Black Lives Matter, you can’t be a true Christian.
• If you vote for a Democrat, you can’t truly be a Christian.
• If you do not believe that America is God’s special country, then you are not truly a Christian.
• If you are not stumping for a specific cause or leader, then you are not a true Christian.

Uhmmm, what? Again, which page or version of the Bible can this be found?

This goes the other way too:

• If you are capitalist, then you are not a true Christian.
• If you are not wearing a mask, you are not being Christian.
• If you vote for “the other” party, you can’t be a Christian
• If you are not actively involved in “our” social justice causes, then you are not a Christian.

If we are to use the mind and heart that God gave us, along with His word, how can we not conclude that these have nothing to do with salvation? Such issues are not worth dividing over. How can God be pleased when are taking away other folks’ salvation over issues with no eternal implications? Why are some of us exalting our patriotism, our country, or our fight for politics above Bible truths? We can expect that from those who do not know the transformative grace of Jesus Christ. However, it should not be so among us. I know it can be really hard, but we must be careful not to insert our political stance, patriotism (or lack thereof), under the umbrella of “Biblical Truth”. The Gospel is not complicated. It transforms in its simplicity. As we are transformed, our thinking transforms. This happens over time and with experience as we wrestle with the scriptures in prayer and humility. Where in God’s Word are we instructed to divide over political and social convictions? The answer is: nowhere.

Mere Activism or Idolatry?

Too many American Christians forget that there are Christians all over the world, who are born in and live in countries that don’t deserve to be worshiped. Why do we think that we are different? Yes, our country is beautiful for those, for whom it is beautiful. There are also people having a vastly different experience because of  injustices perpetuated in our established systems. This cannot be ignored. We can not  allow the “American” mentality to seep into our faith, and make us think that our country or our politics are the center of the universe, time, and God’s entire plan. And here’s the scary thing… If we’re letting our country/politics become the center of our universe, then we are allowing it to become our idol.

Not sure you believe me. Here’s a test: if you have set aside the character or the commands of Christ for your beliefs, then they have become an idol to you. If your beliefs, convictions, or political passions compel you to hateful actions, attitudes, motivations, and manipulations, then they have become your god. They inform your decisions, rule and control you – not the Spirit of God. I do not say this with condemnation or judgment, because we all do this sometimes. This Christian walk is all about conforming to the image of God. We are constantly judging ourselves, not by our own standards, but by His. I have to contend with my own idols and anything that fights to take first place in my life above the nature of God. We are in this together. This is why I want to remind you of some truths that are easily forgotten when we are “triggered”.

What Kind of Savior is He?

Jesus and the Apostle Paul were clear about our relationship to our earthly government.* We respect it, we pray for it, we witness The Truth to it, However, the Church of Jesus Christ does not exist to command our earthly government through a political process, force, propaganda, or manipulation for Christ’s sake. We do not worship our country nor do work to subvert it. That doesn’t mean that as individuals we can’t or don’t participate in it. It does mean that we understand that we are just pilgrims and sojourners in this land. That truth must shape our posture and position toward our fellow Americans. Understanding this, we must accept that followers of Christ have the liberty to be on different sides of social and political issues.** We should not be out here in these streets violently and viciously tearing each other apart. But it is happening. Sad face here.

Surprise, Surprise: The Church is not here to establish a kingdom. Christ’s kingdom was established at His resurrection. Not through American laws or government.

Remember when people thought that Jesus had come to save them from the Roman government? They were ready for him to lead a political revolution. What a disappointment His revolution must have been when it ended with Him hanging on a cross. Of course, we, believers, understand that this death of His was not a disappointment. It was the fulfillment of God’s promise to deliver us from something much more sinister and insidious. We don’t need to repeat the same mistake of misplacing the determinations of God’s kingdom. They are eternal, they are spiritual and they are not accomplished by the agenda man.

Celebrate in Context

Whew,  that was a lot! Let’s talk about how we can live this out. Maybe it sounds like I think we shouldn’t be thankful for our country or be involved in politics. Not so. Likewise, I am not against celebrating the fourth of July, political action, or social justice activity. It is indeed a blessing to live in a nation that values justice and freedom, even if we are still struggling to manifest these for all. I am not against those whose focus is on making our country a more perfect union because they are not content with the current execution of our constitutional rights and liberties. Regardless of our perspectives, my prayer is that those of us who identify as Christ-followers will take the time to reflect on the calling and assignment that is on our individual lives as American citizens and then prioritize that over our political/social positions and passions. Let’s not blindly worship our causes. In everything, let us recognize how we can bring light, love, and truth as we interact with our fellow Americans. Iron sharpens iron. Our opposing views should make us sharper, stronger, and better. Not a hot mess of imploded wreckage.

Americans and our perspectives come in all shapes, sizes, colors, political persuasions, and a host of other varying attributes. No one is more American because:

• you have 10 flags or because you have none
• you have guns or because you don’t
• you are wealthy or live in poverty
• you celebrate July the fourth, Juneteenth, neither or both
• you bladdity blah and blah, blah, blah……….whatever else you might be thinking

As Americans, we are entitled by our constitution and laws to justice and to have our rights upheld. We are also tasked with the freedoms and responsibilities to help establish a more perfect union. This is the extent of our relationship with our government. It is very broad with much room for our contributions. More importantly though, as citizens of a heavenly kingdom, our obligations go much deeper, much further, and require more than allegiance to a political stance.

For Your Edification

As you prepare to celebrate the fourth of July (or not), I challenge you to ask yourself, in the presence of your Creator:

• How do I fulfill my assignment in this country?
• How can I keep my passionate beliefs under the Lordship of my true King?
• How can God use me for His glory in the country of my citizenship?

If we can do this, we will become the change we want to see. Our influence will grow and it will spread. It will no longer be our agenda, but “Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven”. Surrender your politics, your passion, and your agenda, and let the love of Christ rule and reign in, through, and for you. Amen!

References for further thought and prayer:

The preamble of the Constitution: We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.

Scriptural References: *Mark 12:17, John 18:36, I Timothy 2:1-3, Matthew 17:24-27, **I Corinthians 8:1-9, 9:23-33

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The politics of our culture compel us to be insecure about issues that don’t exist. They persuade us to make arguments where there are no disagreements. They convince us to idolize sublimity and ignore reality. Only quiet times – communing with our own hearts and the heart of the Father, can keep us free from such deceitful perspectives of life and humanity. May we learn to keep ourselves free of muck so that we do not become producers and distributors of it.

Connect with God in silence.

Connect with nature in gratitude.

Connect with our loved ones with authenticity.

Connect with strangers with grace and openness.

And with all vigilance, diligence and regularity, disconnect from the convenient.

Love and prayers for you.

“Not what goes into the mouth defiles a man; but what comes out of the mouth, this defiles a man.” Matthew 15:11

“Keep your heart with all diligence, For out of it spring the issues of life.” Proverbs 4:23

Hearing the still small voice of God: I Kings 19:11-13

Dad’s presence. Dad’s protection. Dad’s provision. Dad’s teaching. Dad’s love. Dad’s sacrifice. Dad’s jokes. For all of it and then some…. we appreciate you!

Please scroll to see all Father’s Day tributes!

I was raised never knowing or even seeing my father. I always imagined, more like fantasized, what having a father looked like. I dreamed of having a father who protected me, defended me, saw me as his special little girl and everything that entailed. Mostly, I wanted to be loved. As strange as this may sound to some, I determined at a very young age that I would be very careful in determining who I would have children with. There were certain qualities that I would look for and some things were non-negotiable.

I met EJ during my Freshman year in college. We saw each other around campus and said the obligatory, “Hello”, but not much more. We were re-acquainted the summer before our junior year in the parking lot of Food Lion. Shortly thereafter, we started dating.

I have a cousin who is much younger than me, who I am very close to. This cousin would come to college with me during the summer and stay with me in my dorm apartment. EJ immediately took to him and spent time with him without any prompting on my part. He was patient and kind but so interested in making sure my cousin was OK.

I have a large family and EJ came to a family cookout for the fourth of July. I was a little nervous because his family is very small and the size of my family can be overwhelming. I watched EJ navigate and interact like it was a regular thing. He held my 1-month old cousin, which was the first time he ever held a baby in his life! I knew after that day, that he was something special.

Fast forward to 26 years and four children later and I can honestly say that I do not know a better father. EJ is the very epitome of what it means to be a Godly father in every way. I used to have to tell him to go to bed when I was staying home with newborns and he was working. There’s not a diaper he wouldn’t change, a bottle he wouldn’t feed, or anything else he wouldn’t do. He has lead our children spiritually, emotionally, and physically.

Our children are now 18, 19, 21, and 23. Our roles are changing in their lives, but their dad’s love and support remain constant and consistent. EJ Sherod is the absolute best! We love him beyond what words could ever express. Every dream, fantasy, or wish that I had for myself as a child has been exceeded by what EJ gives to our children. They will never have to wonder like I did because my dream became their reality. For that, I am forever thankful.