Embracing a reemerging icon: Whitney Houston

Everyone has family members who have acted out in ways that would cause some members of the family to be downright embarrassed and humiliated. Being careful of passing judgment, these are the ones who relentlessly seek attention, constantly have problems after the next or just simply make those “what could you have been possibly thinking about”-type decisions. In some instances, their choices could potentially tarnish the upstanding legacy of the family. What I admire about my race is that we often have a heart of extending redemptive love to those who need it most. Instead of shunning our family members or speaking ill, we politely express our sentiments of unhappiness with their actions and encourage them to rectify their behavior. Some members exude tough love. Others stand in the background offering cheers of how to rise above their painful situation.

We all are aware of Whitney Houston’s past. At a very young age, she rose to stardom because of her singing abilities. She captured the attention of millions of fans worldwide through her crossover appeal, and she was offered several lead roles in films – becoming an amazing actress. However, she later faced public scrutiny because of her admitted drug use and failed marriage. You may recall back in 2005 when she made regular appearances on Being Bobby Brown; the show epitomized the obvious –Houston was being hit hard with the vicissitudes of life.

Houston does not ride solo in public exile. Others such as: Chris Brown, former NAACP Youth and College Director turned Baltimore preacher Rev. Jamal-Harrison Bryant, Michael Vick (among a host of other athletes – Ron Artest, OJ Simpson) and R. Kelly have all had to endure such unrestricted opinion.

Listening to Vivica Fox on the Wendy Williams Show last week when she spoke of the Chris Brown apology inspired me to write this entry. She said that “[Chris] has a tremendous amount of talent and a bright future. He made a mistake… when I see him I will embrace him and give him a hug”.

Bishop Jakes wrote in a press release regarding his son, Jermaine, that “in spite of the family pain we feel from this unfortunate situation, it has given us a chance to show him the same help, support, and restorative grace for which our family and church is noted.”

One of the biggest conduits for championing those who have fallen has been my Big Ma. She instilled in me that that while I might not agree with someone’s behavior or past mistakes, to always “be careful for nothing”. Perhaps my struggles are not public. Truthfully speak, I too have found myself on the dark Damascus Road and needed someone to embrace and love me. Therefore, I have to firmly support Whitney, the legend. I truly believe that her best days are ahead of her!

I L o o k t o Y o u

1. Million Dollar Bill

2. Nothin' But Love

3. Call You Tonight

4. I Look To You

5. Like I Never Left (feat. Akon)

6. A Song For You

7. I Didn't Know My Own Strength

8. Worth It

9. For The Lovers

10. I Got You

11. Salute

Blog Name Change: The Barber's Chair (TBC)

Taking the summer months off from blogging has been extremely relaxing.

During this two month sabbatical, I have been able to gather new thoughts, enjoy a few new reads, and also assess the reason why I enjoy blogging so much. By this time, you may have noticed that the name of the blog has changed to "The Barber's Chair". Changing the name was easy. Sitting at the barbershop one day, I recalled a conversation with my grandfather before he passed. He mentioned that the barbershop, back in his day, was the primary outlet for black men (especially) to engage in open conversations without fear of being restrained by their counterparts. When black men felt isolated and their voices where not heard, they used the barbershop as an avenue to uplift each other. This was regarded as their “community”. And to date, the black barbershop remains the same.

Going into a black-owned barbershop at any given moment (except Mondays – when most are closed), you very well might witness barbers acting as unscripted facilitators while many patrons provide feedback on the many topics of the hour. Perhaps the conversation may have changed from earlier times in history, the ultimate outlet remains unbroken.

Further, the black barbershop often gives men a sense of culture. This is one place where black men are able to express their likes and disgruntles in a free environment. Often, you might see someone coming in the shop rendering their services, asking to post a business card or selling a bootleg. This is embraced and very much encouraged.

So I extend this invitation for you to gather around the barber’s chair (TBC), and engage in meaningful conversation!

I'm back!