Dear Mom: Wait, That's Me! - Free?
In the audiobook version of my book, "Dear Mom: Wait, That's Me!" now available on all streaming services, I invite listeners to embark on a journey through the nuanced terrain of freedom. The section, Free? specifically delves into insightful conversations on freedom, its dual nature, and the continuous process of self-discovery that accompanies it.
Unveiling the Essence of Freedom: In a past book talk that I had the pleasure of sharing with Phyllis Brown, the essence of "Dear Mom: Wait, That's Me!" unfolds in a dynamic conversation that can be watched on YouTube. We ponder the profound question: How do we define freedom? Brown's definition, "not subject to the control or dominance of another," sets the stage for a contemplative exploration. For me, freedom is the unhindered ability to be authentically myself, both internally and externally. It's a concept that demands introspection and challenges societal impositions that persist within us. Watch the book talk on YouTube to be a part of the conversation and to deepen your understanding of what it truly means to be free.
Wrestling with Dual Nature: In exploring the dual nature of freedom, the journey of self-discovery involves grappling with both external and internal dimensions. This struggle mirrors the experience of growing up as a black individual in America, marked by the absurdity of initially not understanding the reasons behind the mistreatment. The realization dawns that this brutality is not a result of personal actions but a reflection of societal norms dictating that blacks are not considered persons. This mistreatment creates a web of trauma that weaves negative and limiting thoughts, hindering personal development. Faced with this stark reality, individuals must decide whether to accept their assigned place or resist, risking white indignation by revolting against the unjust status quo. Unsubscribing from these detrimental thoughts and behaviors becomes an essential act of reclaiming agency. Once liberated from the confines of harmful narratives, individuals gain the power to resist and actively participate in the transformative journey toward true freedom. This parallels the notion that being fully human requires the courage to affirm one's existence despite conflicting elements, as discussed by Tillich. The ethical act of the "courage to be" is mirrored in the call for human liberation, emphasizing that true freedom means refusing to be treated as an object and actively participating in dismantling societal structures that dehumanize individuals. Liberation, in essence, is the practical manifestation of the reality of human freedom. This liberation, both personal and collective, becomes a tangible manifestation of the reality of human freedom, emphasizing the importance of breaking free from the chains of oppression to fully embrace the courageous path towards self-affirmation and societal transformation.
Embracing Authenticity in an Absurd World: True freedom, as I come to realize, necessitates the courage to unapologetically be oneself. It's a perpetual commitment to authenticity in a world that often seems absurd. The act of dismantling internal prisons becomes the initial step in not only resisting societal constraints but also advocating for others and reclaiming freedoms that are externally taken. Here's a tip to initiate the journey of Unsubscribing: Begin by identifying one societal or internal expectation that no longer serves your authentic self. Question its origin, reassess its relevance, and boldly discard it.
Advocacy as a Lifelong Skill: Advocating for freedom emerges not just as a singular act but as a lifelong skill—an art honed through practice. As we advocate for ourselves and others, we become architects of collective liberation. The power to dissent and break free from imposed norms becomes a transformative force, paving the way for a society that fosters creativity and embraces diverse expressions of individuality.
The Call for Collective Liberation: Being human involves a continuous rebellion against all forms of slavery. It's about fighting against anything that stifles creativity and actively participating in acts of liberation. The resounding message echoes: No one is truly free until all are free.
As we navigate the profound landscape of freedom, "Dear Mom: Wait, That's Me!" invites you to Unsubscribe. Join in the conversation, challenging preconceptions and inspiring a deeper understanding of what it truly means to be free. The audiobook version, now accessible on various streaming platforms, brings these reflections to life, allowing listeners to immerse themselves in the transformative power of embracing authenticity and advocating for collective liberation. Watch the book talk on YouTube to be a part of the conversation and to deepen your understanding of what it truly means to be free.
