Black In Business

Happy Thanksgiving to all readers and supporters of blackinbusiness.org. We are in our second month of finding our voice. I am thankful for all of the well wishes and encouragement and pats on the back I have received. I have had some suggestions and some critical input. The topic of race makes some people uncomfortable, especially in the states. We at black in business understand racism and that racism is a reality, but at some point in our lives we must move on. We cannot allow it to hinder us and our ability to win. We are not the only people that face discrimination and living well is the best revenge.

Speaking of Thanksgiving what is your best memory of this holiday? I cannot think of Thanksgiving, without remembering my mom and a small house filled with the aromas of great cooking. My mom would say dinner will be ready at 3pm and it always was. My dad worked very hard and was a large man who loved to eat just like his three sons. Another memory I have is driving my new sports car from Baltimore, Maryland to Albany, New York in 5 hours, so that I could be at my sister’s home for Thanksgiving.  

Having said all that my favorite memory is taking place now with my wife and our three children Darius, Salihah and Talib. We have a tradition where I open with a long winded prayer and give thanks for various aspects of the year. I share my hopes for the next year and then I have everyone else do the same. You sorta have to be there to understand, but take my word, it is fun! Thanksgiving is the one day where every family tries to be together and reflect upon good stuff.

Speaking of tradition, the first Thanksgiving was held with the Pilgrims and Indians. The Pilgrims had planted a large garden of vegetables to be ready for a harsh winter. As November came they were not sure they would be able to harvest their food prior to a frost. A frost would spoil the crops and the Native Indians saved the day by helping harvest. The food was saved and the first Thanksgiving was a celebration. Later the Native Indians were thanked by the white man stealing their land while in the process of killing many Native Indians. I always wondered how did Columbus discover America when natives were already here.

In conclusion my hopes and dreams for the upcoming year are peace on earth and goodwill to mankind. Lets stop the killing, both on American streets and in a unnecessary war. Our nation was founded via death and destruction and we seem to enjoy war, but now lets sit at the table of peace. While we are at the table lets not exclude countries that may not like us. The U.S is not perfect so lets show the same focus and energy in delivering peace as we did in delivering war! Keep hope alive- Happy Thanksgiving