WordPress Link:

Day 01: Define what Black History means to you.

Black History is everything to me. It’s not just a month of remembrance, but it’s a journey of learning about Black men, women, and children who made a difference, sacrificing their lives to make people of color and the world better. The slaves who prayed and hoped for a better world while shattered to cotton fields. Their children and grandchildren who used their voices to speak on injustice and liberty for all, including their own brethren. Those who celebrate not just their melanin or memories of their ancestors, but they share their testimonies of hardship while celebrating their perseverance and patience to make their dreams come true. Even if our African American leaders didn’t see the promise or their efforts making a difference while they were living, their stories give us hope to make a difference today.

Black history is important because, as Black people, we are the products of a century-long story. Black history enhances representation, spotlighting examples and testimonies of our Black brothers and sisters who overcame and endured through slavery and systemic racism. While “certain” folks try to whitewash our history, we must never forget our history nor let alternative facts justify slavery as a “good thing.”

As we celebrate 100 years of Black History, let’s make this year worthwhile to honor Black history and culture. No matter what color you are, let’s make our communities and our world a better place by choosing love, peace, and kindness in a world of division, confusion, and suppression.

Day 05: Black Joy Spotlight Question: What does joy look like to you?

What brings me joy on Black History Month is witnessing the accomplishments of today’s African Americans. Black representation is important because when Black kids see other Black people thriving, it gives them hope to manifest their dreams through perseverance and hard work. Plus, they witness examples from their communities, not just the leaders written in history books. While learning our history is important to our growth, it affects us differently when we see success happening today.

One of my favorite BHM moments was the 2026 Grammys. Many Black artists received Grammy awards and nominations. One of them is Darrel Walls, one of my favorite singers of my generation. Growing up, he sang with his siblings in a group called the Walls Group. Over time, he encouraged me through his Wednesday IG Live worships. I’m so happy for him for his Grammy-winning gospel album, Heart of Mine, with the talented PJ Morton.

However, one independent artist became one of my favorite artists. I learned of Durand Bernarr after watching multiple episodes of the TERRELL Show. On his first appearance on the show, he explained to Terell how he sang with Erykah Badu, served as a BGV for The Internet and Anderson. Paak, and became a production assistant for Earth, Wind & Fire. Over time, after multiple appearances on the show, his music, personality, and demeanor captivated me. After 10 years of being Grammy-accredited and nominated, he earned his first Grammy for Best Progressive R&B album for his latest album, BLOOM.

Black joy is celebrating Black dreams manifested. Darrel Walls and Durand Bernarr are some faces that inspired me. Their musical gifts encourage and inspire folks through the art of music. Durand’s message of being yourself matters; we try to imitate celebrities we love without pursuing our own passions. I’ve listened to Darrel’s story of managing mental health and Durand’s journey of self-care and generous love. These lessons shaped not just my taste in music but also my journey as a writer. Hopefully, my perseverance and determination will inspire others to pursue their dreams too.

Day 07: Your Black identity in one word and why.

Resilience means adapting through hardship or trauma. It’s overcoming challenges ahead, resisting the urge to stand down or give up. It also changes our mindset, learning from our setbacks for a comeback.

This word is the heartbeat of Black history. African Americans endured through the harsh trenches and traumas in this country. From slavery to systemic racism, they kept the course, voicing their injustices, rallying through the streets, and breaking racial barriers. They fought for freedom, liberty, and fairness for all people, including Black people. Even when folks denied their rights, whitewashed their history, and mocked them, they persevered until radical change came.

This reminds me of James 1:12, which says:

In James 1, James encouraged his audience about the productive aspect when facing trials. One, we count them as joy. When tested, our faith builds resilience and perseverance.

Two, we’re confident to ask God what we need. With wisdom and trust, we stand on strong faith, asking God what we need in times of difficulties. That kind of faith contrasts with the unbelief of a double-minded man. James described a double-minded man like a wave tossed when winds blow. Instead of being grounded with resilient or faith, he is restless and unstable, making irrational, destructive decisions without seeking God’s counsel (James 1:5-8; Enduring Word). When in trouble, never let fear or doubt stop you from seeking God’s throne and asking Him what we need, both in peaceful and difficult times.

Finally, trials develop our spiritual maturity; as Christian believers, spiritual development is not just individual transformation but reflecting the mindset and character of Christ within us. Spiritual maturity builds our endurance against temptation, supernatural discernment against deception, and humility to receive God’s word and promise. This not only transforms our lives but draws us closer to Christ; just as Christ endured, we also endure with a Christlike mindset.

James 1 speaks volumes for African Americans who reread the history of injustice and hardships of multiple generations. Even today, we continue fighting, striving to achieve our dreams, protecting our families, and leaving a lasting impact on the world. Even when the odds are against us, it’s our responsibility to honor our history while responding to today’s issues without complacency. Do we surrender when life is difficult, or stand up for righteousness and love?

No matter what life throws at you, be resilient and persistent! Like the Christians in persecution and our Black ancestors in slavery, keep your hopes alive in Christ!