Black feelings.

“Man up!”

“Suck it up and move on.”

“You better not cry!”

We hear these phrases in our homes, on social media, and even our friends tell us to “drop it and let it go.” Somewhere along the way we were conditioned to believe that it’s okay for us to suppress our emotions.

We have this role to play. An alpha woman/man. Tough. No emotions. Unbothered.

For some of us, we know how to play the part well. Wake up, go about our day, be the super star everyone expects us to be, then come home and break down.

It’s funny how the people and culture around us has the ability to influence our perception of what we can and cannot do.

Our culture teaches us that vulnerability is not an option, feeling weak is not normal, and crying makes you fragile.

I think it’s time that we allow our emotions to evolve at the same rate our technology and resources are evolving. In a world where we are taught to be the best, it is important to recognize that being the best comes with being emotionally intelligent. Talking about your thoughts and feelings will not change the outcome of your situation, but it can definitely help relieve the anxiety and depression that comes with harboring your sentiments.

Imagine the life we could create for the generations after us if we learned how to cope and heal from the trauma, experience, and trials from our past.

Just talking about it won’t get it done, but listening to understand and not insult or judge will show progress!

As a community, we are in a better position today than we were yesterday, but there is still so much more room to grow! 

I challenge you to begin the healing process that is going to help you grow emotionally, mentally, and physically. 

So don't just “suck it up and move on.” Talk about it, release it, and learn from it, and grow from it.

Happy Black History Month ✊🏾