bloggers – The Modern Black Girl

Dear Youngin’,

Wow! Who would’ve thought you’d be here today. Who would of thought you’d learn so much in the span of two and a half years. It’s crazy where life takes you and sometimes it’s difficult to understand the journey but don’t ever question it.

Looking back there’s so many things I wish I could tell you but the truth be told, I wouldn’t be able to sit here and have this wisdom if you didn’t go through the situations that not only bent you a little or a lot but molded you into a fearless young beast.

So here’s some things you should know.

You Are Powerful

Don’t ever question what you’re capable of. As cliche as it sounds you have the ability to make a difference and you know exactly what you want to accomplish. Do not let the world and those around you sway you away from your destiny and truth. You can honestly do anything you put your mind to and the only thing standing in your way is YOU. Go for it!

You Are Worth It

You are worth waiting for. You are worth someone who will really be a someone who will uplift you and not tear you down. You are worthy of trust-filled friendships. You are worthy. Do not give into others demands because you feel as if you’re not worth this or that. Believe in your worth and know it without a doubt.

Stop Trying To Please Everyone

Look I get it. You’re new to this. You’ve never been on your own and had to deal with 4 roommates who are all completely different. You’ve never been separated from your friends of 10 years and had to make new ones but don’t feel like you have to make everyone happy. Not being rude but you physically cannot satisfy each and every person in your life. You just can’t and you know what? That’s Okay!

You Have Time

You are 18 years old. Don’t rush the process. You have plenty of time to be an adult. You have time to find a relationship. You have time to find a job and be free from your parents supporting you. Now at 21 I can say you’ll still struggle with this, it doesn’t just go away but really live in the moment. You’ll never be as young and free as you are today and take advantage of that. Live each day like it’s your last and enjoy it. Go to that party. Go to the dining hall with everyone even though you only have $15. Make the memories now because when your time does come and adulthood is really bestowed upon you. It’s these memories that will forever make you smile.

Call Home More

Check-in more than once a week. I know you’re busy and calling mom and dad just because seems pointless. I know mama calls at the absolute worst times and dad always calls at 8:30 on Saturday like you’re not still passed out from the night before but it’s just them missing you. Yes, you’re on your own now and an adult “technically” but you’ll always be their baby girl. They’re not being annoying, they’re just missing you.

Love,

Auri

What would you tell your freshman self?

February.
Black History Month.

The month that we celebrate the accomplishments of prominent members of the African American society. The month we are able to recognize those that came before us and acknowledge where the African American Community is heading in terms of advancements.

Black History Month at a PWI is often an odd time. It’s time where the Black community is continuously celebrating and brings out their best Afrocentric gear. However on a wider scale, at UCF Black History Month is more of a footnote in the school agenda opposed to the main article.

Now this isn’t to be blamed on the school itself. It is a Public White Institution and many of the student’s don’t hold this month to the same esteem as the Black Community.
Why is that?

Why is that even in today’s society a month that is dedicated to the celebration of accomplishments of those who have paved the way for many of the aspect that are essential to our lives today. From the creation of the first blood bank to traffic signals. Without these intelligent and determined African Americans, we as Americans would lack so many inventions that make life today what it is.

Is it because we’re only allotted one month a year where you celebrate these accomplishments? Is it because as Blacks we are taught to appreciate people such as Malcolm X and Madame C.J. Walker for all the advancements they made for us? Is it because since I attend a PWI, my white counterparts have not simply been taught the same thing?

There’s so many reasons that Black History Month isn’t held to the same standard at a PWI. Yes, there’s the Multicultural Student Center who host events and post banners. But why is that we need a Multicultural Student Center in the first place for a school to recognize the importance of the month?

Why is it that at HBCUs this month means something. It’s month where are speakers and tours and constant talk and appreciation for those who have paved the way for us? Why is that at a PWI we are still fighting for that same recognition?

It could be culture gap. It could be the way that the PWI white community was raised and how they were indirectly taught to perceive this month. It could be a lot of factors but the question remains.

When will there be no difference in celebration?

Tag: bloggers

A Letter To Freshman Me

Black History Month At PWI’s vs HBCU’s