Dear Unborn Child,
Upon entering this world you will carry a burden that is not yours to bear. You will take responsibility for the ignorance of others and inadvertently be stereotyped by those who are blind to individuality. This world that you will be born into was not created with you in mind. This world was created with an agenda to leave you battered and broken. Pay close attention to the instructions that I will weave throughout this letter. Use this letter as your personal guide and understand that these instructions are intricate to your survival as a black man.
Understand that you are not inferior. Never allow anyone to make you feel as though because you are black than you are less than. Take pride in who you are and own every fiber of your being. However, keep in mind that the way that you view yourself is not how you will be viewed by society. You will be viewed as a threat and society will try to strip you of your uniqueness. In knowing this fact, you mustn’t conform to the stereotype that will be placed on you. You must exude excellence and break down the social barriers that were created to box you in.
I want you to become confident enough to resist. Become so comfortable in your beliefs that If your opinion if unpopular, you will own it and defend it with your life. Prepare yourself to have conversations that are not comfortable and disrupt environments with your presence. Exert yourself, but only at times that do not put your life in danger. Being outspoken is a great quality to have, but utilize it at the appropriate times. The society that we live in employs enforcement that is tasked with protecting your life, but has systematically murdered people who resemble you and have left their cold, black bodies lifeless in the same streets paved by your ancestors.
In your resistance you must have a purpose. You will find your purpose in books, and in education. Develop a vernacular so that you are able effortlessly convey the knowledge that you obtain. Use this knowledge to develop solutions and mobilize change for the same little boys who will one day look up to you. You come from a people who fought to open those same books your peers may overlook. Take advantage of the opportunities that you are afforded; you are fortunate to have them.
The most important thing that I want you to remember is to love. I want you to love without fear and without hesitation. Love wholeheartedly and never regret the love that you give, regardless to how it may end. Love yourself and all that you embody. Remember that love is the passion that allows you to do the right thing. Without love in this world you will be cold and unforgiving. Be strong, courageous, and aware.
With love,
Your Future Guardian
