This Valentine’s Season, I want to send an open letter of love to our ancestors who came before us that sacrificed so much, oftentimes their own lives, to show their love for future generations to experience a better life.
This letter could reach back to the continent of Africa, or across the diaspora, but I will focus on those that came before us whose feet stepped on the dirt of what was known as the new world, North America. The majority (if not all) came to this country as slaves. Somebody had to be willing to step up, speak up, and endure the struggle throughout the generations for us to have the privileges we have today, so I say thank you.
This kind of love cannot stop with our ancestors. We today must also be willing to do the work necessary to ensure the rights of all people. We must be willing to speak up and act when we have the capability to do so. We should not think it is someone else’s job to do what is placed right before our own face.
I recently started watching the Netflix special “1619.” I have not read the book, but with all the controversy behind the information presented, I wanted to see for myself what it is all about. So far from what I have seen, I really appreciate how they are showing the various contributions that African Americans have given to help make America going all the way back to 1619. What will the history books say about our generation in terms of what we have been willing to sow into the culture and society where we live to make a positive difference?
As far as I have been able to research thus far, my paternal side of my family were taken to the South as slaves stretching across Virginia, Mississippi, and Texas. My great grandfather, who did not even know how to read or write, was able to take what was thought of as barren wasteland as payment for work and turn it into a legacy that my children and grandchildren will still be able to benefit from.
My grandmother, also known as, “Mother Dear,” and my grandfather traveled from Texas to California in the 1940s in search of better opportunities for their children and grandchildren. Once they arrived here in the West, things were not necessarily easy for them, but they pushed through with nine children and after my grandfather passed away in the 1950s, my grandmother became an entrepreneur and educator. She set the example that I try to walk in every day.
All of us have a story to tell. We have hidden gems in our family that need to be told and shared. This Valentine’s Day, instead of focusing on flowers and candy, take some time to sit and write a thank you letter to your loved ones for the journey they walked and the doors they opened for you.
Of course, many of them have already gone on before us, but the information would be a wonderful gift for your children, grandchildren, and future generations. If you have photographs of your parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents, start putting them in a book with captions so that your family will know who they are.
It is never too late to say thank you or I love you for something someone has done for you. If they have already gone on, just show gratitude and plant a seed of love for others to see and hopefully follow. Happy Valentine’s Day!
Healing Without Hate: It’s a choice. It’s a lifestyle. Pass it on.
Visit www.WendyGladney.com and www.forgivingforliving.org to learn more. Wendy is a life strategist, coach, consultant, author, and speaker.
