My Black Story

February has been designated Black History Month and now it comes to an end. As an island girl I never grew up super conscious of being black. I never had to shout it out loud or defend being black. I never needed to wave a flag or wear it on a shirt – this was just who I was. Before I understood the concept of skin color and what that might mean as I embraced a world outside my island, I had grown to love me for who I was.

I was a beautiful masterpiece carved by the hand of an almighty God who loved me before I was. He loved me as the apple of His eye. In His amazing plan and design He chose to make me black. He makes no mistakes. This was His perfect will. Everything I need to be, is available to me. He provided His truth to relegate every lie of the enemy to a place of no relevance. He opens doors for me when men try to shut them.

He knew me – flaws and all- and loved me just the same. My likes, preferences, quirks, gifts, passion, strengths and weaknesses collided to produce this beautiful blend of salt and sweet. I’d like to think that my all-wise Father knew what He was doing when housed this spirit in this black skin. He then proceeded to do life with me – never once leaving me alone. Even when I failed Him, ignored Him, His love pursued me to the deepest depths. At times, He found me in the darkest places and loved me no less.

When I was formed, I envision God echoing the same sentiment He did when He created all living things. When He kissed me with the breath of life He said – ‘it was very good!’ I choose to honor my Creator by loving, accepting and cherishing His handiwork. He could have selected any other skin to put me in – He chose black. What do I say to this? I say ‘this was God’s doing and it is marvelous in His sight‘. It is a wonder in my eyes too. Me – mere flesh with all my limitations could be the recipient of this awe-inspiring stubborn love.

What’s your story? Have you been questioning or dishonoring His work of art – the uniquely amazing you? For all He has invested in you and in me, I think we owe Him a lifetime of praise and worship. As an added note, the skin He wrapped us in was His idea – not ours. I love my black story and I will live it with gratitude until I breathe my last breath. How about you? Have you loved and embraced your story?

I can imagine Your nod of approval
Another masterpiece released into life
Housed in beautiful flesh
In your eyes it was good

You poured of Yourself
Giving her all she needed to breathe
To flourish to occupy
To live life to the fullest

You watch her dance in the rain
Cry when pain became a bed partner
You carry her when strength fails
Give peace when her world shakes

When the pieces crumble and burn
You make art from the ash
This is Your handiwork
Beautifully formed in Your image

For You formed my innermost parts;
You knit me [together] in my mother’s womb.

I will give thanks and praise to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made…

Psalm 139: 13-14 [AMP]