To be honest with my fellow readers, I didn’t want to post about this. As a black woman, I grew up with a clear indication of the history that came before me. And it’s not something that was taught to me in school because as many others can vouch, black history isn’t taught in a traditional school system.

Even so, I knew exactly what it meant to be black in America. I’d like to think that in present day, things have evolved, but I am constantly reminded that I am a minority. The fact that I am one of the few black people at my job is normal to me. The fact that most black films that get awards are about slavery is normal to me. The fact that another innocent black person has dealt with systematic racism is normal to me.

But having a hard conversation with my husband made me truly realize that being silent isn’t an option. By being silent, I am acting like everything is fine when in reality, it isn’t.

I am reminded of Jesus’ disciples. They were just ordinary people, but they had a true calling on their lives. They were far from perfect, but God called them for something greater than themselves. They were persecuted beyond belief, but they were determined to let everyone know about God’s saving grace (salvation through Jesus Christ).

I believe that everyone should cling to Proverbs 31:8, “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those being crushed.”

I can feel the brokenness of this world every time I get on social media or hear another news story. But the heart of the matter is this. If you are not without flaws, then you are no better than anyone else.

God intended for us to be united, but much of what I see in this world is division. We’ve got to stop putting others down just so we can rise higher. If there’s anything I’ve learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s that we need each other more than we ever could have imagined.

Don’t just think about yourself or those close to you. Have compassion for those you don’t even know. Care about people who don’t look like you.

I’ll leave you with this:

Matthew 5:14-16, “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”

-Jas