I Am Not My Grandmother

I Am Not My Grandmother

(On Why The Strong Black Woman is Dead)

I am not my grandmother. And as an act of self-love and self-care, I declare..." the Strong Black Woman is dead!"  I'm not my grandmother; I do not suffer fools well. I acknowledge the fact that I cannot pour from an empty cup and cannot just give myself away to everyone. I remove myself from people, situations, traditions, and circumstances that diminish my physical, mental, and spiritual capacity.

I had my strong black woman commit suicide on the realization that I am not my grandmother...that being strong was killing me. Suffering is a choice.  I have a voice. I refuse to fade into the background for another's pleasure. I commit myself to maintaining my mind, body, and spirit, surrounded by kindred spirits.

My Strong Black Woman's funeral is today. Because I am not my grandmother, I begin with the opening declaration of Hoʻoponopono...

Thank you

 I love you

 I'm sorry

 Please forgive me