One of the great one's

Yesterday we lost an amazing woman in music and entertainment, Lena Horne died at the age of 92. She sang a tune with her own flavor. Her eyes came alive as she sang a song with passion, excitement and a certain savvy that seems to have been lost in days of old. My first encounter with Mrs. Horne was in elementary school when I had to do a book report on her for Black History Month. It was during this time that I truly admired her beauty, her style and her professionalism in a business that was not always accepting and often contradictory. Although during the Cotton Club's peak years, people of color were not allowed to patronize the club, but only allowed to serve and provide entertainment, I fell in love with the thoughts of her performing at the Harlem Cotton Club in the 1930's. Imagining that my grandfather was in the audience, captivated by her voice. Over the years, I have seen her periodically on television shows such as, Sesame Street, Sanford and son, The Cosby Show and A different World. With over 30 albums to her credit, the singers and entertainment of the 21st century have a lot to learn, and beautiful high heeled shoes to fill.

Valentines Day: What's it about?

Have you ever wondered from where do people of the world get their customs? Why do so many follow various holidays, customs and traditions? I do, I love history and from time to time I will research it to understand what the origins are. Sometimes it really surprises me, but it makes me feel informed and very aware. However with awareness comes responsibility, What do I do with the information? What do YOU do with the information? Well, the choice is a personal one of course.

This month is the month of love surrounding the Valentine's Day Holiday. So many people put their own seal of individualism on the holiday, creating a special place in the heart of their love interest.Here is a brief video that I found explaining where the holiday came from.
Interesting....

There is always two sides to a story.

A few weeks ago I was given the opportunity to view the exhibit Presented by Tavis Smiley, America I am. Right away, I said Yes! I heard a little bit about it but really did not know anyone personally who actually attended.

Let me just tell you, I was moved from the very beginning to the very end. The exhibit began with the profound words of W.E B. Duboise. I felt eery, solemn and reflective as I went Walking through a simulation of the "Door of no return" at the Cape Coast Castle, viewed the personal diary of Malcolm X and the chair in which Martin Luther King sat in during his trial. And hurt at my heart upon viewing the savage and beastly items that were used to enslave many victims of the African slave trade.

Although, one cannot discuss or create an exhibit of the African in America without acknowledging the disgraceful and sad events that it involves, one also cannot omit the beauty, skill, craftsmanship and ingenuity that they have brought to America. Which is another reason that I appreciated the exhibit. I was able to see beautiful pieces of cookware, basketwork, and quilting that was crafted by the hands of slaves. The exhibit tactfully yet with boldness let it be known that the once great economy of this country was built upon the hard labor of the enslaved African men and women.

Towards the end of the exhibit we were brought right into our day and time, viewing photos, donated clothing, musical instruments, and sports memorabilia. All from the many African Americans who have played major roles in pop culture, education and basically all things "American".

What a great experience for all who wish to know more, to gain a deeper understanding and empathy for the other side of history.

I had some techical difficutlies posting the pictures. So if you would like to view pictures of the exhibit, click here.