Are You Ready to Dance?
In the October 2012 issue of Rolling Stone magazine, veteran musician Bob Dylan said “the stigma of slavery ruined America” and he doubts that the country can get rid of the shame because it was “founded on the backs of slaves.” He added “[Americans are] at each other’s throats just because they are of a different color,” adding that “it will hold any nation back.”
Wow! I am so excited about Dylan’s comments because he recognizes that our present is still connected to our past. I agree that our country does suffer shame over its slave history, which prevents us from making greater strides to improve our racial and social situation. But I don’t believe America is ruined, however, she is severely wounded. We must understand that the white and black relationship in America is a partnership between these two groups, and as such both must change the way they think about themselves and each other in order to remove the stigma of shame they hold in their psyches. How many times have you heard blacks just need to get over slavery? Sorry, but one group isn’t to blame just as the answer is NOT in changing the attitude of just one group. Instead, it’s a joint effort because of the partnership they are engaged in. You’ve heard of the saying, “It takes two to tango.” Well, the white and black relationship is very much like dancing. Only through the combined efforts of America’s white and black citizens can their relationship improve. They must both be willing to change. Are you up for the challenge?
Linda
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Linda, I’m so pleased to be included among your friends…glad you said YES. I’m very stirred by recently listening to an incredibly moving broadcast on the Summer of Peace series. In case you’ve missed it…Belvie Rooks and Thomas DeWolf sharing their own amazing journey as friends. Check it out. (I’ve got all the details, if you haven’t heard this yet.) You can find out about their story with a google search.
Blessings..!
Barclay
Barclay, thanks for stopping by. I will definitely look up the two people mentioned. I would truly appreciate your feedback on the above post. By the way, your name is absolutely beautiful.
Cheers.
Linda
Linda, thanks for your enthusiasm..!
Your very powerful posting* is what made me want to become friends..! And why I suggested the Belvie Rooks-Thomas DeWolf interview with Philip Hellmich on Summer of Peace. I’ve been familiar with her for a long time through my involvement with Institute of Noetic Sciences…an African-American woman who had returned from visiting the slave prison in Ghana, when the DeWolf’s book, Inheriting the Trade, came to her attention. His ancestors were one of the largest slavery enterprises in the US. He and a group of about a dozen family members retraced their history. (I think there’s a movie, Tracing the Trade.)
Anyway…enough for tonight…* though I did want to mention that a good Bob Dylan song can still tear me up after all these years..!
I’ve never been to Ashland, but my friends who have visited there all say the most appreciative things about your home.
Barclay