Your heart, insight and gift of writing is on full display once again. Thank you for putting Mr Belafonte’s long life and your ever present goal of longevity into words 💛
Agreed. I think about that a lot as I get closer to 50. I'm 47 now, and I just think about the life I didn't really live up to this point for so many reasons. To, have the long life Henry had, and to do it while being a Black man, one who has multiple marginalized identities that are often viewed as target practice in so many ways - in AmeriKKKa - is a goal. To get up every day and have the privilege to breath and live is something I never take for granted...I see and hear you, friend. I see and hear you indeed.
Between E. Jean Carrol's testimony yesterday, and your writing about growing Old and Black, I was struck by the thought of, The Right to be Left Alone. The Right to have one's boundary's honored. In both of hers/yours story, both of you are having to override the emotion to protect one's safaety in the longer run. The courage to tell the story, to be brave to be vulnerable in telling the story, weaves through the community to be united in our demand to own our individuality and collective humanity. Mr. Belafonte was a beacon of leadership through my entire life. He called us to pay attention; to show up in community; and to keep contributing until you draw your last breath. I think we die twice. First when we physically die and Second, the last time someone says our name. Mr. Belafonte (and you Frederick in a long distant future) will be living with us for many years to come.
"Here’s to celebrating the opportunity to have a Black life that brims with minutes, hours, days, and years." Oof.
This whole piece is stunning, difficult and very powerful, Frederick. Always grateful for your voice.
Beautiful words Frederick. Thank you for your heart.
Your heart, insight and gift of writing is on full display once again. Thank you for putting Mr Belafonte’s long life and your ever present goal of longevity into words 💛
Agreed. I think about that a lot as I get closer to 50. I'm 47 now, and I just think about the life I didn't really live up to this point for so many reasons. To, have the long life Henry had, and to do it while being a Black man, one who has multiple marginalized identities that are often viewed as target practice in so many ways - in AmeriKKKa - is a goal. To get up every day and have the privilege to breath and live is something I never take for granted...I see and hear you, friend. I see and hear you indeed.
Between E. Jean Carrol's testimony yesterday, and your writing about growing Old and Black, I was struck by the thought of, The Right to be Left Alone. The Right to have one's boundary's honored. In both of hers/yours story, both of you are having to override the emotion to protect one's safaety in the longer run. The courage to tell the story, to be brave to be vulnerable in telling the story, weaves through the community to be united in our demand to own our individuality and collective humanity. Mr. Belafonte was a beacon of leadership through my entire life. He called us to pay attention; to show up in community; and to keep contributing until you draw your last breath. I think we die twice. First when we physically die and Second, the last time someone says our name. Mr. Belafonte (and you Frederick in a long distant future) will be living with us for many years to come.
Wonderfully written, heart-felt piece!
This was a real joy to read! Great appreciated Frederick
Gosh this is a powerfully beautiful perspective & tribute, thank you Frederick.