Natural Beauty

One thing my mother taught me from a young age was to embrace who I am…naturally. Even though her hair is relaxed, she never forced me to perm my hair or made me feel as though my natural hair was an unnecessary burden. (Even though I do remember many instances of going to my aunt or cousin for school week hair rescue, after mom’s hairstyles left me with uneven parts or braids that stuck up in the air.) Mom always told me that perming my hair was my decision, and it was a decision that I made twice in my life…never again. Now I have nothing against those who relax their hair, it’s just not for me. I love my natural hair and the ability I have to do nothing to it, yet still get many compliments on my hairstyle.

Over the past 5 years of so, quite of number of my friends have given up the “creamy crack” and started wearing their hair naturally; whether it’s with extensions, dreads, afros or short n’ sexy. Some were tired of the relaxing process, while others wanted to try something different. Some decided to go back to their roots, while others felt “growing dreads” would be their “mid-life crisis.” Whatever the reason, natural hair in the Black community is taking over. Even though I have ridden this train for many years, I will happily welcome those who wish to climb on board.

But natural beauty isn’t only about hair. It’s about accepting who you are, without the perm to cover your hair, the makeup to cover your skin and the many other products that people hide behind. Some are so caught up in the commercialized opinion or concept of beauty, that they have forgotten who they are. In the process of “becoming someone else,” they are also showing our children, whether directly or indirectly, that it isn’t ok to be yourself. We have to reinforce to the younger generation that lighter skin isn’t better than darker skin – all are beautiful. Long, straight hair isn’t better than short, kinky hair – special people have all kinds of hair texture. Make-up should complement beauty, not mask or create it.

I know most of these issues tend to take place among females, but males also play an important role in the matter. Daddies, uncles, brothers and cousins should embrace the young girls in their family, reminding her that “She’s Royal,” because she is a gift.

Natural beauty rocks!! Spread the word. 

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