Yeah, I agree Allen, complicated and at times seems to be hidden in the open. For those it touches it unforgettable but for those unaffected complete denial of the existence.
I was raised as a blackie/too dark but evolved into a person who accepts my color as a description not something that defines me. Especially with kids, I look back and think what a tragedy to be raised not seeing the beauty within yourself and in the mirror. I think there is a difference between bleaching and tanning because bleaching is often done for acceptable by people who look just like you.
For years I would ask my hubby what did his grandmother (born and bred Missouri) say about him marrying a black women. For about 10 years, he smiled and said she was fine, happy I found someone that I love. Year 15, I asked again and he said, she thought you were pretty and nice but not your fault that I was black. I replied damn, that's what my grandfather thought, expect it was black and fass. She was one of the most loving person I have ever met who raised a daughter (my mother-in-law) to be a woman who has inspired me. Ok, the grandson has put up with me for close to 30 years.
I was raised as a blackie/too dark but evolved into a person who accepts my color as a description not something that defines me. Especially with kids, I look back and think what a tragedy to be raised not seeing the beauty within yourself and in the mirror. I think there is a difference between bleaching and tanning because bleaching is often done for acceptable by people who look just like you.
For years I would ask my hubby what did his grandmother (born and bred Missouri) say about him marrying a black women. For about 10 years, he smiled and said she was fine, happy I found someone that I love. Year 15, I asked again and he said, she thought you were pretty and nice but not your fault that I was black. I replied damn, that's what my grandfather thought, expect it was black and fass. She was one of the most loving person I have ever met who raised a daughter (my mother-in-law) to be a woman who has inspired me. Ok, the grandson has put up with me for close to 30 years.