On this day 17 years ago, I made my grand entrance into this world and have been blessed with the gift of life ever since. Here are 17 things I've learned about God, life, and identity in the last 17 years:
1) I was passionately drawn to God 5 years ago and want to thank Him for capturing my heart at such a young age. Nothing can pluck me from His hand (believe me I've tried), not my skepticism, or my doubt, not even myself. 2) It's important to confront the evil people have done using Christianity. Although, I'm continually grieved by the sin of residential schools, colonialism and chattel slavery, and know that they're not true examples of Biblical Christianity, I'm not going to cower or look away. 3) Affirm the worth (and beauty) of dark skin individuals in a world that devalues them(me). 4) We cheat ourselves when we beg for a “'colorblind" world. There's nothing wrong with seeing the different skin colors, hair textures and ethnicities of people. 5) Reflection is key. 6) Race doesn't exist. But it does hold weight in the world and so people, (including myself) need to challenge personal prejudices in order to see people holistically. (Oh no! This is turning into an article about race... :) 7) Being sensitive or emotional does not make a person weak. 8) Vulnerable is one of the strongest things a person could be. 9) Don't sweat the small stuff. 10) I’m pretty cool. 11) Enjoy the present moment. What's the point of working hard to achieve a goal if you're not going to take time to enjoy it? 12) Don't let fear of offending people stop you from speaking your mind during conversation. 13) Sometimes saying "I don't know" is the most revolutionary statement a person could make. 14) Learn to thrive in a community of people who love you and hold you accountable. 15) Friendships are worth pursuing, even though they take you out of your comfort zone. There's nothing like being fully known and fully loved. 16) I haven't figured out the whole "race" thing (especially in the Canadian context). And that's okay. 17) I still have a lot of maturing to do. Until the ink drips, Akua B
3 Comments
Tina
4/20/2017 07:00:27 am
Happy Birthday!! Each year brings growth and I am excited to share your journey with you. Thank you for including me!
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DKO
4/20/2017 09:32:23 am
You have learn so much and i am so proud at what God is doing in and through you. Stay blessed and be a blessing
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Kwaku B
4/21/2017 08:17:20 am
Point 5 really resonates with me. I enjoyed this article.
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AuthorMy name is Akua B and I'm a lover of all things Africa, natural hair and poetry... Archives
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