Black Rest: An Essay
“Daddy?” A small voice called out below me. “Are you okay?” I couldn’t resist picking her up and kissing her cheeks as I came to my senses. It was as if the walls of my office had suddenly moved back into place in one thunderous moment. The blinking cursor on the blank page in front of me was a sign that stepping away was for the best. “I’m fine,” I smiled as I carefully closed my laptop with my free hand. My beautiful little girl was a welcome distraction. Over the last month, I’ve struggled to write anything meaningful. My thoughts were jumbled, fragmented, and uncertain. My mind raced often as I reached to grab the thoughts that floated by. Shortened hours of sleep, fixated on the movements of a dying republic, have only supported my lethargy.
I know the ancestors have traversed difficult terrain. I’ve been careful not to judge my own journey harshly, as what we face today as Black people is equally difficult and uniquely challenging. The exhaustion brought forth by thriving within a failing empire that has yet to atone for its original sin has been proven arduous at best. I walk this earth, not as a victim, but as a Black man who understands his value, mission, and role as protector. Despite this truth, exhaustion is still inescapable at times. This nation is plagued with problems of its own making. It’s neither Black people’s fault nor responsibility to fix the mess we’re in as a result of the damning nature of white supremacy. It has proven to be a fool’s game with material consequences that extend well beyond the intended audience.
The war of equality couldn’t be muddier. With battles on multiple fronts, this administration is set on continuing to destroy the progress that was made by those who’ve come before us. Voting rights are being threatened, jobs are being taken, illegal wars are being waged across the globe, and the economy is tanking at a rapid pace as they focus on red herring fallacies such as DEI and thwarting the progression of Black people. They’re threatened by our soul and ability to carve out lanes for ourselves despite their dastardly efforts. We live amongst fools who consistently bathe in ignorance while simultaneously holding the keys to society.
The lack of energy and cohesion is hurting our cause. Some say this is not our fight, let it burn, while others are still asking Black people to trust Jesus to fix it. Spirituality certainly plays its part as we find ways to deal with the current state of affairs, but we must take matters into our own hands. We’re tired of the constant attacks. The events during this past Black History Month alone are prime examples of this perpetual tug-of-war.
Truthfully, I believe in allowing this nation to reap what it has sown so vehemently. There will be pain felt by those who participated in the ills of white supremacy. Many are slowly waking up to the notion that it cannot save them as they once thought it would. It’s a cancer that must be eradicated from society completely. It just furthers the divide and ultimately seeks to devour all in its path.
Resting, although it might seem passive, is what I believe we need to do more of as a people. Stepping away from the noise to find our way back to self-love, Black joy, Black expression, and true community helps us to stay grounded in times such as these. Today, find time to rest. Make it a priority. You’re worth it.