What’s hair got to do with it?

What’s hair got to do with it?

I have a poster outside my workstation cubicle that asks this very question. The poster has several quadrant sections showcasing different hairstyles and types — curly, kinky, permed, braided, long and short. Hair! It is one of the main characters in the story of my life and probably holds a similar story for so many of us.

My maternal grandmother taught me that my hair was my glory, and so in my mind that meant that to cut it would be to dishonor God’s gift.

At that time, in my youth, my hair was thick and long, falling down below my shoulders. I hid my worth in my hair, especially because on top of it all I am a dark chocolate girl and everyone conditioned my beauty by skin color!

Fast forward, I am a natural dark skinned beauty with a short cut. Although, I’m still coloring my hair (rather covering the grey with my own hair color), it’s my choice, and so far, it’s where I feel most comfortable and confident. I am aware of my choices and decisions to come out of hiding!

What’s hair got to do with it? Hair holds freedom but it does not determine self worth! Hair, like skin color, are only parts of the story. Freedom is compounded by many things on this journey; it’s not without responsibility. Short or long, colored or unprocessed, with protective styles or natural, hair can bring freedom but freedom takes work!

#self-worth #self-love #self-expression #authenticity #femininity #generational #culture #beauty #freedom