Pushing Forward History In Black and White

“If you want to make a difference, get involved,” in the quote that continues to be used by national and local community leaders throughout America these days.  This includes exercising your right to vote, attending community forums, being active in campaigns, volunteering at schools, libraries, churches, community centers, participating in charity walks, runs, clean ups, supporting outreach events and passing out flyers and brochures.  Building community is an ongoing activity that reflects the common good in people who want to be more than a bystander, on looker or detractor, but rather want to be known as a stakeholder.  

In many aspects the price of getting involved has not fully been understood and appreciated in determining future outcomes and the lasting effectives that come as a result.   For most, getting involved has never been the problem; no matter the size or scope of the event, but rather the question is “will my involvement make a difference and will someone tell the story?”  In recent years, it is becoming increasing harder for people to get involved when so much of what has been gained has been lost, forgotten or just omitted by those who report and record history.

What is Going On

It is both fascinating and shocking about what can be found in many modern American History books in elementary, high schools and universities.  A lot has been left out, especially about the untold contributions of people of color, religious groups and faith communities.  Far too often, people write things about others without really knowing much about them, from their point of view, from their cultural heritage, from what they read or hear from others.         

There is a need for reliable history writers and storytellers in the 21^st century from diverse and multicultural groups.   The need is critical, especially to tell a quality reflective history that includes the noteworthy contributions of the various cultural groups that continue to make up the American experience.   America is different, its history is unique, its makeup is complex, however it is changing fast, it is more diverse and this evolution is becoming more real with each passing day.      

Lasting Value

The need to get it right from the past is vital so that the future becomes even more amazing.  To read about the human links, connections, sacrifices, contributions of men and women of a grateful nation and society is to know “that we did not build this by ourselves.”  It is learn about the gifts, talents, inventions, dreams, struggles and the fights for equality and justice.   My story and the story of countless others are important and should not be overlooked or undersold.  Dr. Benjamin E. Mays, once president of Atlanta University once said that “Once a deed is done, the consequence is out of your hands.”  That is the beauty of history so that others may know of the deeds of others, regardless of their color, heritage, faith and beliefs.     

It is hard to know what the real impact history has on those who read, and study history, but that is the real value of it all … to just know.  It is to know that what was done for the good of the society should never be forgotten by those who benefited.  It is to know that each generation produces a countless number of true hero’s and they made a difference.  It is to know that what makes America so special is that ordinary people can do extraordinary things and that should be duly noted. 

Like the US Military, we must “Remember the Fallen” and that ensures that those who have gone before, served or have paid the ultimate price will never be forgotten and that their collective voices are still heard.   All “good societies” are reflective of its people, whose memories fade over time, but their voices are still heard and their lives did count for something.   Telling the whole truth and nothing but the truth is what history is about and it is what people really want… so let’s just tell the truth. 

Whose Picture Is It Anyway?

“A picture is worth a thousand words,” but how important is the frame that holds that portrait, painting or photo?        

The focus of every framed picture is the picture itself… it is the image captured, it is the reflection of the artist or photographer in what they saw, their vision, their passion, as well as a snapshot in time.  Each picture has its own story, purpose and in essence reveals a particular point of view.  The point of view revealed may not be the same as those who look at the picture for the first time.  What each viewer sees may be quite different from what others see.  In addition, and in some showings; viewers wants to know a little about the background of the artist, the meaning behind the picture and its frame.      

Frames

The frame in which a picture is placed is often forgotten about as it relates to determining the overall value of the picture.   In real terms, the frame is used to help to display the picture on a stand, shelf, hanged on wall or placed on a desk.  The frame helps to not only define the picture, but also conveys a message itself.      

The selection of the right frame for any picture is critical in order to see it in the right light.  The frame can make or break the picture.  The right frame on a good or average picture can bring out the best and increase its value.  On the other hand, the wrong frame, regardless of the quality of the picture can be disastrous and project the wrong image. 

The quality of the frame depends on the owner of the picture and their desire to display it for a unique space in an office, at work or at home.  Frames come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, colors, and designs and can be made of wood, metals or plastics.  They come in standardize dimensions, angels and styles and can be bought at a number of retail stores.  However, and if one can afford it, a frame can be customized.   

Framing It Up

One of the most important things in life is to understand how “you see things”… the frame and the picture it holds.  Regardless of what others see, the frame is what and how you see things in its context, can and will change one’s life, their family, others and even the world around them.  Seeing a picture through the right frame always help to determine… its value, its impact and its future… and that changes everything.  If you live in a “bubble” and work in a “silo,” the picture of a particular community, its culture, its beliefs systems, its religion, its values and the people who live there can be very wrong if not seen through the right frame and light.    

People, who live in any given community, always want others to see their community in the right frame and light, and with the right perspective.  It is seeing things in the detail… for in the details there are little things that can make the difference between success and failure…even when we don’t think it matters… It matters the most.  People in the community want to trust those who are making decisions about their community… those who understand them and have their best interest in mind… to help improve the quality of their lives and the neighborhood… for turning things around in any community is a team effort.  Look through the right frame and you can better understand the picture you see.  

 

Seeing The American Dream From Here

“What you see is what you get,” they say, however, “how far can you see?”

The experiences of African Americans in the 21st century continue to be defined by history, heritage, and hope. Since the first arrival of slaves in 1619 on board a Dutch-man-of-War at Jamestown, Virginia, the quest for equal treatment, justice, and opportunity remain central to achieving the liberties that are embedded in the American Dream.

Without question, the contributions and personal sacrifices of African Americans over the past four centuries have been significant to the social fabric of the nation and continue to enrich the American experience for all. The passage has often been hard, clouded by mistrust, betrayal, misunderstanding, and prejudice. Still the journey to racial equality has proven to be worthwhile for most African Americans who embrace the promise of a great nation. Indeed, the problem of the 21st century remains the problem of the color line.

 

Finding A View

The term “American Dream,” was first used by James Truslow Adams in his book The Epic of America written in 1931. He stated that the

 

“American Dream is that dream of a land in which life should be better and richer and fuller for everyone, with opportunity for each according to ability or achievement. It is a difficult dream for the European upper classes to interpret adequately, and too many of us ourselves have grown weary and mistrustful of it. It is not a dream of motor cars and high wages merely, but a dream of social order in which each man and each woman shall be able to attain to the fullest stature of which they are innately capable, and be recognized by others for what they are, regardless of the fortuitous circumstances of birth or position. (p. 214-215).

Adams’ definition of the American Dream became the benchmark for future generations and continues to be the banner for all citizens to aspire to. He captures the essence of the hopes and dreams of a nation that was coming of age in a time of great challenges and a new world order. This concept of the American Dream gave a new meaning to those who were seeking to become an active participant in the making of America during the Great Depression.

The Journey

The quest to achieve this American Dream continues to be a moving target, ever-evolving and more or less embedded as a goal in every generation. What the American Dream first meant to people and groups in the late 1800s after the Civil War and Slavery; to the early 1900s and WWI, the Great Depression (when the construct emerged), the New Deal, WWII, the Korean and Vietnam conflicts, the Civil Rights Movement, Integration, Regan-Economics to now in the 21st century with the election of the first African American President is certainly different and cannot be compared in the same light. The times and values have changed, and certainly what the American Dream means to people today and even the world has changed.
 

Robert Longley wrote an article citing that two thirds of Americans say the American Dream is becoming harder to achieve, especially for families as they point to financial insecurity and poor quality public education as significant barriers. According to a survey by the National League of Cities in 2004, the American Dream is defined as financial stability, living in freedom and enjoying good health. Of course these goals vary among generational age groups as well as among people of color.
 

Lasting Value

Many consider the American Dream as a promise or contract that entitles each citizen the right to pursue their dreams in a land flowing with milk and honey. Too often this pursuit of the American dream comes with a high price. In many situations, African Americans find their pathway to the American Dream full of pitfalls, unchartered waters, winding roads, a narrow pathway, a bridge too far or a river too wide to cross.

Regardless of the disillusionment, setbacks, hurdles, and the resulting heartbreak, the quest to achieve the American Dream remains the goal in the African-American community. For many it is not reaching the dream that makes it worthwhile, it’s the journey and the experience of achieving the dream in the face of insurmountable odds. “How I made it” is the story line and the badge of courage of contemporary accounts of successful African-Americans. Nevertheless, the goal, the destiny, the hope and the inspiration that comes with “making it” and holding on to the dream is what the American experience is all about. This is especially true for all who have come to America as first time immigrants as well as their descendants and those whose bloodlines are reflective of those who died in the faith and hope of receiving the promise.

 

Urban Cliff Climbing Anyone?

There is an entire industry devoted to supporting the activity best known as rock climbing.   Its popularity begin in the 1920’s, but over the past two decades or so the industry has grown significantly through the expansion of indoor rock climbing walls and outdoor training facilities at amazement parks, sporting stores, community parks, malls and schools.   People are drawn to this sport due to the natural appeal of climbing, being outdoors and its “coolness.” 

It continues to gain considerable interest by individuals, businesses, schools, agencies and community base organizations as a way to promote health, wellness and teamwork.   To some, it is a sport and there is a feeling of adventure and skill to be a rock climber.  If you are afraid of heights or have a fear of falling, this is not the sport for you.  It began as a cottage industry, but now it supports a growing number of people who call themselves professionals in the field and continues to be enjoyed by amateurs and novices, who just want to have fun.     

Getting A Grip

Rock climbing is both a physically and mentally demanding sport and activity. It will test a climber’s strength, endurance, agility and balance along with mental control and critical thinking.  It undoubtedly requires a lot of courage, concentration and the common belief that obstacles and challenges can be overcome and reaching high goals are possible.  It also can be a dangerous sport as one decides to go to higher heights and take more risks.

Rock climbing can be used for various reasons, as competition, as training and more importantly as a way to have fun. In some rocking climbing adventures, people work in teams, but by far, most rock climbing is done as an individual activity.  Regardless of the level or skill, one objective of rock climbing is completing; against others, time or with oneself.  There is something to prove, a goal to achieve and a milestone to cross.  Of course, each rock climbing experience brings its own set of unique challenges, a particular route to take, or perhaps increased difficulty.  Serious rock climbing also requires knowledge of proper climbing techniques, clothing, conditioning and how to use specialized climbing equipment. Rock climbing has its own language, motions, movements, and footing and hand techniques.

Urban Cliffs

A lot can be learned by rock climbing and the rock climbing industry when applied to the challenges facing those living in urban America.   Urban America needs to regain its “social and economic” footing in these times of complex local, regional and national discourses.  There are certainly an endless number of cliffs to climb, including those in education, poverty, health care, jobs, employment training, reentry, crime, unemployment, affordable housing, drugs, blight, guns and gangs, to just name a few.  

Just pick any glaring issue and begin to undertake the sure complexity of the matters at stake.  It will not take long to feel the demanding pressure at each ascending step, hanging at times by your finger tips, with sweating palms and trembling knees and limited resources.  At each new height, the gravity of additional responsibility, increased accountability, resentments to the idea and doubts creep in.  With each and every new level achieved there will be equally a desire to stop, question why, or just go home.  At each turn, you learn something new about people, the human condition and yourself.   Even though you may be trained and equipped to climb, there is nothing that can replace the real sights, sounds, steps and edges of the journey.  

When asked “Why did you want to climb Mount Everest?” George Mallory, the famous explorer responded “Because it’s there.”  Urban America is in need of cliff climbers? … Any questions before we go? and "O...Yes, don't look down."