I am going to do a spin off from my brother and sister-in-law’s blog/site. They have what they call Wordplay Wednesday, check it out at 7daybuzz.com. I am going to designate Thursday, or at least this Thursday, as a thought day and call this, Thoughtful Thursday. Here is my thought and I want you to come back and tell me what you think.

With all the talk about racial profiling and race issues, etc., how do you deal with being black in an environment where you see the “race card” used all the time! I work and live in a place where the percentage of minorities is extremely high, especially blacks. Recently I went on a trip with my boss. Unbeknownst to me until that trip, she is 1/2 white and 1/2 Japanese. I am not sure the people who work closely with her know that. I didn’t. It puts a different perspective on things. She then went from a white woman to a woman of color. If Obama – a half white and half black man – can be considered just black, surely I can think of my 1/2 Japanese boss as a woman of color. I had a beautiful time with her. She was lovely. But just this week, I hear whispers and backbiting and grumblings about her being prejudice. (heavy sigh…)

For me to use the race card, it really, really has to slap me in the face and be clear to call! I get so tired of hearing people say, she did that because I am black or you know if that was a white person, she wouldn’t have done that. I have repeatedly told people, “I like her and I don’t agree. I don’t believe that about her and she treats me good!” Maybe, just maybe if you were doing your work the way you were supposed to be doing your work, that wouldn’t have happened. Simple as that! And this particular boss isn’t the only one they say that about. It is a widespread phenomenon here at my place of employment and never ending! And there are so many blacks!!!

My question is:

• What will it take for little boys and girls to grow into big people who own their actions and cease from pulling out the race card?
• When will the card expire?
• Why are they still being distributed?
• Who is endorsing its continued used?
• Where does the card no longer have power?
• How long will it work?

I truly hope we as blacks can get over it and when situations arise, not go to racism as the first option and look at all the facts and possibilities before resorting to the race card.

How has my boss worked in the government system for 22 years, be one of the highest directors in the organization, maintained her promote ability status, do it all in an environment of about 65% blacks and honestly be prejudice?

Guess what, I’ve turned in my “race card”  for a mirror! It was a very eye opening and refreshing experience! Now, I own me and all my thoughts, deeds and actions. I encourage others to do the same!

Holla Back with your Thursday Thought.

We’ve been talking a lot about our first black President Barack Obama and racism and actions that stem from the hatred of racism. I have a scenario. You are walking through the mall with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Dennis Rodman. The three of you are walking, talking and minding your own business when an unidentifiable skinhead comes up and spits on all three of you. I think we can surmise what Dr. King would do and probably assume what Rodman would do. Their history, reputation and actions precede them. But here’s the thing: what would you do?

We would all love for the world to think the best of us, but you know what emotion was invoked just now when you read it, and you know what you would do or what you think you would do. Tell the truth and share with us what an outward, direct, public show of a race provoked demeaning act, such as this one, could and would provoke you to do! Tell us if the morals and Christianity (if you claim to be one) you possess will cause you to turn the other cheek and say Father forgive them. Be honest and tell us: What Would You Do???

Holla back!