Because you were paused…

Do you know why you’re still angry today from the outrageous acts that impacted the lives of George Floyd in Minnesota and Christian Cooper in New York? It’s because YOU are sitting in the pool of Mr. Floyd’s blood that stains the street in Minneapolis. You are sitting on the stoop looking at the tree in front of your domicile or in your backyard; listening to the birds sing and know that Mr. Cooper could have ended up like Mr. Floyd. The uniform and gender are different, but the danger is the same. It hurts a bit more than Trayvon, Michael and Amadou because you were paused.

We all have been fighting an invisible opponent. For over two months, searching for toilet paper, interrupted dining, cancelled sports and other pleasures of life to shelter in place and live. Cleaner air, less traffic, less litter. We got bitter: no jobs, stifled economy, but alive to care. We are in phase one or two and still paused. You weren’t distracted by soccer practice, riding lessons, a late project or traffic. It wasn’t just another scroll item on your phone. No obstructions and no shade in that panoramic view of death, destruction and wanton lies. The overt hate was not skewed.

Having melanin is not a phase. It’s all encompassing. It deflects and reflects. It enhances and exudes; the history, the vibe, the pride are targeted by some to erase our being on this earth. How can I thrive and live, like at the casino, the house always wins? Something to muse while paused.

I appreciate your tears and text, your fears and vex. I want YOU do the right thing and I want to LIVE to hear the results.

Act, while paused!