The Hair Story

Ten years ago, I wrote a post on Facebook about black people not liking their natural hair. I said it based on what people said to me. I also said it because weave and braid sales remain high. I still see those perceptions and thought processes in how we treat our daughters' hair when they reach a certain age. This post is not about who is wrong or right. I know what chemicals did to my hair. Others have processed their hair for years, and they are fine. My advice is always to do what works for you.

Paraphrase of things people have said:

1. Friend: Why are you wearing your hair like that?
The same friend grew locks eventually.

2. Family member: Don't wear your hair like that.
Wearing hair like me now.

3. A Role Model: You need to change your hairstyle.
Switches between perm and natural from time to time.

4. Schools children to a child: When are you going to get braids or weave?
What?

I always say that our race is the one that has the worst thoughts about us. Somehow, we despise our kinky hair, dark skin, and buffness. I don't know why and have realized that this mindset may never change. Does it make any of us less than the others? No. It only becomes a problem when you try to debase another person because of how they look - something our race has been through at the hands of others.

So what's my point? Be the best you - comfortable in your skin, loving your hair, face, and body - just how you prefer.

POEM: Potential

We all have got potential
because God wasn't preferential
when he handed out the talents
and despite people's appearances
they've all got something to offer
even if it's collecting straws
and recycling them into something great
but sometimes we don't have the faith
because people tell us negative things
so we don't bring out our best
therefore, failing the test
but you can't let people hold you back
because there is nothing that you lack
to succeed - just as the air you breathe
you can perform awesome feats
just move your heart, hands and feet
be good to those who meet
and share your talents with vigor
because your energy should be your trigger
You can impact the entire galaxy
but you have to believe in yourself fully
Potential is in all of us
so don't let your talents go to rust
don't let anyone dampen your spirit
stick with it - you've got this!

© Linette Rabsatt

Belle Vue Methodist Congregation Hosts Tea Party on September 28, 2019

The Belle Vue Methodist Congregation is hosting a Tea Party on Saturday, September 28, 2019 from 3:00 to 6:00pm at the JR O'Neal Botanical Gardens. Tickets are being sold for $25 for adults, and $10 for children who are 12 years and under. Come and enjoy our tea, pastries, scones and other goodies, as well as various activities including a hat parade, hat competition and tea pot competition. Everyone is invited to attend and wear their best hat. Proceeds are in aid of the church's building fund. For more tickets and more information, please contact any member of the congregation.

Belle Vue Methodist Congregation

Good Hands Trucking & Water Delivery Delivers School Supplies to JSPS

On Tuesday, September 10, 2019, Anji Walters from Good Hands Trucking and Water Delivery made a special presentation of school supplies to the students of the Joyce Samuel Primary School. Mr. Walters shared that he was thankful for the support he receives, and he wanted to find a way to give back to the community in 2019. He chose the Joyce Samuel Primary School because it is the main school that serves the community that he resides in.

Mr. Walters made the presentation to students at the school in Belle Vue. Each student received a reusable bag with writing books and other essentials. In addition, students were given encouraging words to set the tone for the new school year. Mr. Walters hopes that his actions would encourage other entrepreneurs to do likewise in their community, and looks forward to doing similar in the future.