Do not Underestimate the Power of These Words, “I See You.” Part 2

 

Blackness Rising familia,

It has been some time. This reflection kept showing up which is a sign to share. In preparing to post it, I realized it carries the same theme of my last post. Something to reflect on.

Happy Tuesday! Enjoy this rising song.

Peace 

Yvette 

I recently got back from another grounding and rejuvenation time home. Home where birds sing in the morning, lifting the spirit. Where the sunrise overflows your soul with gratitude and the energy of who and what I love surrounds me and I get to exhale.

People have been stopping to compliment my skin. I say thank you and share my simple routine. One of my elders said, “Your skin looks fresh.” Another one said, “You did some deep cleansing.”

Yes, fresh in the way the sun kisses my melanin at home. It does bring forth a fresh face. Yes, cleansing from all of Melsa’s and Soledad’s recipes. My body feels much better as I move forward in my healing journey.

Then there are 3+ weeks where I did not have to explain myself. I did not have to explain why I spoke Spanish. I did not have to explain that I was from Colon, Panama. I did not feel the stare of hate just from my very presence in a space. I did not feel the attacking energy on my Blackness. 

Why? 1. Everyone in Colon looks like my family. 2. We don’t deny our Blackness. 3. There is racism but it doesn’t carry the weight of hate in the same way. 

This is why my skin looks so fresh. I get to be ME.  I look and feel like my full self when I am home. I then get to bring some of that back to Boston with me while doing my very best to extend it. With the state of humanity in the world and in this country at a low point, this becomes intentional.

All this to say, to be seen, truly seen in all your complexity, your light, your love, allows you to exhale inside and out and yes, my skin is confirmation of that profound moment. 

Let us start a new practice as we head out to work and all our summer activities. Take a moment and really look at those you love and care for. Let them know, I See You. I can confirm that you will hear, see or feel that exhale that says, Thank you, I can breathe.

I see you community! I see you Black people! I see you Africans in the Diaspora! I see you Colon!  I see you Boston!  I SEE YOU!

peace, love and light,

Yvette 'Lepolata Aduke Apoukissi' Modestin