`Just be thankful for what you got' - For Brothers Only

IN a world where the most negative issues just seem to have a greater impact on our lives than on anyone else's, it's difficult to get past that reality and look deeper to recognize and acknowledge that we still have a lot to be thankful for.

When you consider that we tend to die from certain diseases twice as often as Whites (prostate cancer), that we have less access to health care, that we suffer judicial injustice, that we experience high rates of unemployment and underemployment, that we fill more jail cells than college classrooms, that we have less access to capital, and that we continue to be victimized by racial profiling, a Thanskgiving Day celebration (or even the thought of such) might seem to be a bit out of place. But no matter the depth of despair, the mounting misery or the waning of hope, we all have something to be thankful for. As my grandmother used to say, "No matter your state in life, there's always somebody who's worse off than you are."

She was right, and that thought helps to put the bigger picture in perspective. Perhaps a 1974 song by William DeVaughn puts it even better. His memorable words, born during the Blaxploitation era, still have meaning and still ring true. He said: "You may not have a great big Cadillac, gangster whitewalls, TV antennas in the back. You may not have a car at all ... Just be thankful for what you got!"

If you look at it that way, we all have a lot to be thankful for, whether we think so or not. Despite the obstacles, hardships and unfairness that permeate our lives, when you focus and really examine it, creating a list of our blessings might not be as difficult as it appears--especially when you consider those things in our lives that are taken for granted, are underappreciated or completely overlooked.

Naturally, when those lists are put together to acknowledge the things that we should be thankful for, they will vary widely. But there are some undisputable entries that should be a part of every Brother's list and should be celebrated every day of the year.

* Be thankful for that Black woman who's in your corner, the one who has your back. There's widespread agreement that there's no stronger foundation than the one that's built on the love of a good Black woman. And for those of you who haven't been fortunate enough to find the love of a good Black woman, then give thanks for the one who might be looking for you.

* Be thankful that you can make a difference (and that you have an obligation to make a difference) with your vote. No matter the state of your existence, when you vote, you can make a difference in your neighborhood, your city, your state, your country, your life. Your vote counts, even if your candidate doesn't win.

* Be thankful for those who are continuing to fight the good fight--those who remain focused, their eyes not diverted and their resolve not weakened as they continue to educate, motivate and orchestrate to keep the Movement alive. Give thanks for the long-distance runners like the Rev. Jesse Jackson, Kweisi Mfume (the thousands of others who have lived and died in the fight for equality) and those who continue the struggle to preserve the hard-earned gains that could be lost during the apparent attack on long-established civil liberties. Not to be overlooked is another formidable group of committed fighters that includes the likes of Tom Joyner, who through his radio "air advocacy" continues to initiate change, encouraging his listeners to strategize, mobilize and verbalize. Through his efforts, millions have raised their voices to show those in the corporate suites and those in the hallowed halls of Washington, D.C., the power of Black unity.

* Be thankful for whoever it was (parents, teachers, ministers, neighbors, friends) who led you in the right direction and who was there to make sure you got back in line whenever you veered off course.

* Although it may seem contradictory in light of all of the negatives we have to face simply because we are Black, be thankful that you are a member of the most resilient race of people in the world. Be thankful for our rich heritage, our fascinating, vibrant culture and our enviable attributes that millions of others go to great lengths to emulate.

Traditionally, Thanksgiving is a day in which we gather to reflect on our bountiful blessings. This year, perhaps we should begin the celebration by reflecting on those things that might not be so obvious because, ironically, they are sometimes too obvious to see.

COPYRIGHT 2002 Johnson Publishing Co.
COPYRIGHT 2003 Gale Group