4/23/02
The Spiritual Chicks^SM Speak Out!
Are we there yet?

Comedian Chris Rock (one of the Spiritual Chicks’ favorite social commentators) has a routine about events over the last 40 years that have set African Americans either one step forward or two steps back.  Astronaut Mae Jemison becoming the first black woman in space propelled the race 15 steps forward, while Mike Tyson sets the race way back anytime he speaks in public.  Now, you might wonder where these steps are leading.  Rock’s answer to this question is "there," as in "we’re almost there." 

This very funny skit raises several important points that apply to all of us---including  white Spiritual Chicks---in  our struggle to get "there."  First, "there" is not a place, or even a set of external conditions under which other people grant us freedom.  "There" is a state of mind in which the individual knows that he/she has the same right to be themselves as anyone else in this universe, and acts in accordance with all the dreams, aspirations and responsibilities toward others that come with this enlightened view.  And here’s another important point, it’s up to each of us to make it "there" on our own.  Whether we are outsiders based on race, gender, sexual preference, or personal beliefs, when  we respect ourselves, life has no choice but to respect us back by giving us dignity, courage and the capacity to forgive---even if the Mike Tysons of the world  and those who mistakenly believe that any one person exemplifies an entire ethnic group appear to be tumbling backwards down that long flight of stairs into a pit of ignorance.  And, although it can be a real challenge, if we love (or at least stop blaming) those who seek to drag us down, then we take back the power to direct our lives that rightfully belongs to each of us.

See the Chris Rock routine that inspired this article:
Click here then click on 
Today’s Clip: "AMERICAN BLACK PROGRESS CHARTED."