A Letter to My Unborn Son
I know nothing about you, I don't even know who your father is. Understand that years before you are conceived, I am praying for you. All I know is that you are my young prince. I write to tell you of the world you will one day have the power to rule. I do not mean "rule" in the sense of this world being under your dictation. But, if you use every skill God has given you, nothing is out of the realm of possibilities. There are, however, a few things you must know.
Not everyone in this world is going to love you the way your father and I will. They may or may not have reasons for their derogatory words and threatening stares. You must still treat them with respect. Cecily Tyson said "The moment anyone tries to demean or degrade you in anyway, you have to know how great you are. No one is going to bother to put you down if you are not a threat to them in the first place." The people of this world will fear your potential. They recognize that you have the capabilities to do and have what they want. Remember that even our savior, Jesus Christ, who did no wrong, received hatred and was spat upon. Remain humble and levelheaded.
Within you is the strength of your ancestors. You stand on their shoulders. Because of them we do not march in cotton fields, but can "march in the fields of medicine." The journey to your field will not be easy. You may feel your ribs are crushing under the pressure of this world, but it's nothing our people have not overcome before. There may be times you are considered less adequate than others pursuing your dreams, remember your worth and stand tall. Your day will come.
Fear the police. 14 black boys and men were killed at the hand of an officer in 2014. It does not matter if you are in the right, if the police tell you to do something, you do it. Better to fight them in court than to fight them on the street—where you will lose every time. Not every officer you encounter will abuse their power, but be cautious. Please, I beg you, I do not want to bury my son.
Prayerfully, these warnings will not be applicable for the time in which you live. I wait, with great anticipation, for your arrival. I long to see you thrive. Dare to accomplish what is thought impossible for black boys. The only obstacles that threaten your success, are the ones you refuse to find a way around.
Love,
Your Mother-to-be