Good Evening, Everyone:

I hope that all of you had a most blessed Father’s Day.  I spoke with my father and it made me appreciated him that much more.  Since, tomorrow is not promised to any of us, we have to let those we love know how much they mean to us, today.

GOD is truly amazing!  In spite of our challenges, we, African Americans still have a great deal to be thankful for.  For starters, most of us awoke this morning with two arms and legs that work in the greatest nation on earth.  In America, with the application of perseverance and hard work, the achievement of anyone’s dream is possible.  Never sell yourself short!  Who knows where you may end up?  I have to wonder what President Barack H. Obama was dreaming about 10, possibly 20 years ago?

As people of color, we have to learn how to feel really comfortable in our own skin regardless of our situation in life.  All of us are going to experience life’s ups and downs and it does not matter how famous or wealthy we are; this is a given.  However, some of us never miss an opportunity to “trash” or “bad mouth” others because they have achieved some genuine form notoriety or fame in life.  As my beloved cousin would say, “Whatever is for me to have, I’m going to have it” and the same can be said for those who have achieved public notoriety.  Positive role models come far and few between these days regardless of their ethnic or racial background.  It makes me feel proud to see a fellow African American rise to prominence against all odds and soar like an eagle.  Their excellence elevates all of us.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m not advocating placing people on pedestals because we’re all human and we will make mistakes.  It’s only natural.  Stuff happens and there are times when we won’t be displaying our “A-game”.  Recently, I read a comment someone made validating another person’s perception of a situation based upon the “hue” or “darkness” of their skin tone.  Personally, I was surprised by this assessment because outward appearances should never be confused with the actual “content of someone’s character” especially when you don’t have any sort of personal relationship with them.  Realistically, I know we live in a race conscious society that’s driven by outward appearances; but, we, African Americans have to transcend this sort of “myopic garbage”.  Being a lovely, chocolate colored sister, I’m quite familiar with it and I don’t allow my life to be confined by it.  GOD blessed me with my coloring and I wear it well!

Brothers and sisters, whatever your situation in life is, you don’t have to “belittle” others to make yourself feel good.  You’re already “good” because GOD created you in his own "divine" image and the Bible says it’s so!

May Peace Be With All of You,

Sistah Selah