Black Women Have It Going On

“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” — Psalm 147:3

Hello from the crisp mountain breezes of Colorado! Today, and every day, is a beautiful day to improve ourselves. The world is a better place when we strive to be better than we were yesterday. That effort releases good energy into the atmosphere and shines a light on those who need uplifting. Life is truly worth living!

Yesterday, I mentioned how trauma can impede our growth. In my own experience, I didn’t even realize my development had been stunted until my mid-twenties. Even then, I lacked the life experience to put a name to what I was living through. This is why, as a family historian, it enrages me when families reject members looking to connect. Rejection by kin is a profound trauma.

In my case, it wasn’t just emotional rejection; I was physically violated by a male in-law. I was only twelve when I spoke up, only to be met with the fury of a jilted wife. As a child, I was thrust into the impossible position of being treated like ‘the other woman.’ Talk about traumatic! Even now, I still feel the sting.

As I grew mentally and emotionally, I chose not to hold anyone hostage for their poor choices. We are all human, we all hurt, and deep down, we know when we are deliberately hurting others. This is why the phrase ‘something is better than nothing’ doesn’t sit well with me. I know people can do better. We shouldn’t have to settle for the ‘nothing’ of rejection or the ‘something’ of a half-hearted apology when we deserve the truth. Let’s pray!

PRAYER

Heavenly Father, thank You for the strength to speak my truth today. I pray for that twelve-year-old girl who was met with fury instead of protection. Lord, heal the sting that remains. I pray for those seeking to connect with their families only to be met with rejection. Help us to stop settling for the ‘crumbs’ of toxic relationships and lead us toward the ‘better’ that You have for us. Amen.