Sometimes things are said within our society that really makes you take a step back and wonder…“Who the hell says this is the way it’s supposed to be?” I was listening to Steve Harvey this morning and they were talking about the shooting in Florida. Now Steve starts his show every morning talking about God and things in that realm. So when I listened to him talk to Al Sharpton…I found myself questioning some of his comments. I have always had issue with those who talk of religion and what not but then at times you see them contradicting those beliefs or principals.
The biggest eye opener that really got the wheels turning was later in the show they were all speaking about Trayvon’s Mother and how she was conducting herself. They were all shocked and impressed at how she has been acting. In my world we like to call it “professionalism.” She’s been conducting herself with a high level of decorum, grace and…professionalism. What bugged me was the way the spoke about it. They were saying had it been them they would act like this or be saying that, etc, etc. I mean…wow. Is that the level we have sunk too? That when someone chooses to act in a manner that’s not stereotypical of what we as a society or group expects they get applauded?
Why is acting “professional” weird? Why do we not expect that or better yet see it as the norm? I mean does being black magically endow me with the ability to “act a fool” and use pain or misfortune as an excuse? Now don’t get me wrong…I’m not saying showing emotion is bad or it’s not needed. But when someone chooses to rise above the stereotypical BS that surrounds them and acts in a manner that they feel is befitting…who are we to question it or label it? It’s like my daughter getting good grades in school; then everyone acting surprised because she is getting good grades. Well if that is what she has been taught, explained and expected of her…then why would it be odd or unique that she actually achieve and or do what’s expected?
We (The American Society) have got to move past labels and status. We need to look at each situation for what it is and let it be what it will be. If someone chooses to act a fool then allow that INDIVIDUAL to be and act a fool. If they choose to act in a graceful manner…hello…let them do so. Sometimes blacks, African Americans…whatever you wish to call us are the biggest supporters of stereotypes and do more for keeping them in place than any other group. I have said it 100 times and I will always say it…education and an open mind is paramount for any group to move forward and become better than it is and or was.
