Reflections of Yesterday

Often times, we reflect on yesterday. Thinking what could be, if only as the saying goes. What does the footprints left in the sand say about you? What stories and paths are footprints of roads once traveled? If the waves of the sea could erase one set of footprints you have taken, how would you choose? How deep of impression did you make? Often impressions are made where they are barely seen or they can pierce deeply into the sand to leave a lasting impression.

Reflections of yesterday

Thinking of what was
What could be
And what is to become
Living this life in the present
And not reflecting on yesterday
Or
Anticipating in this life what will be tomorrow
Reflecting on circumstances of pain and sorrow
Anticipating the future
And all the good things to come
Delighted to see the birth of a new day
Possibilities to correct wrongs
Not looking back
And focusing on what has been
But what is to become
Creating an extension for
Promise
Solace,
And growth.

© Mrs. J

Why Not be Natural?

Remember, the lyrics to an India Arie song where she penned the phrase "I am not my hair." Just think back to the comment, he/she has good hair? Many of us at one time or another has either thought or said such a comment. Just think, what is good hair? If taken care of properly, one can argue we all have good hair. Does straighter, curly locs represent the benchmark for good hair? Is it possible for the stereotype of what good hair is to ever dissipate? Not in this lifetime!

Why not be natural! Being natural means having a sense of "purity" so to speak or a lack of being artifical or fake. Thinking back as a young girl, it was not acceptable to wear my hair in a way that did not appear straight and silky. My grandmother would often refer to my hair when it was longer and straight as "good hair." So, when deciding to wear my hair natural and leave chemcial based products alone, does that mean my hair is no longer "good"? It is very suprising to see over the past few years, the number of women who have made the transition from relaxers or "perms" to being natural or as what some would refer to as the "nappy" look. The reasons in which individuals decide to become natural is a personal choice. Some do it for religion, others do it for health or to follow the trend of the modern days style. Whatever the reason, each individual has to make a personal choice about what works for them. Going on three years, with being natural, it is one of the best things I could have done. I am not concerned if people do not like the choice I have made. The decision to leave the chemicals alone has worked for me. It has made me more conscious and aware of not only what I am putting on my body but what I am putting in my body.


Before the idea of being natural is dismissed, think that by being natural, you are being yourself and being real. So, why not be natural?