What Does It Mean to Live Without Privilege?
In economics, the natural flow of money often means that for one person to be made better off, another must be made worse off. This is sadly the way business functions; in the same light, nations are built. This dynamic reinforces a system that profits from the vulnerable.
There are numerous tragedies occurring all around us every second of every day, making it nearly impossible to keep track of or properly comprehend them, especially considering how society is often distracted by social media, news, or misinformation.
At this point in my life, I am facing the burden of repaying large amounts of debt in the future. I have also been questioning what I want out of life. I am also disappointed with the direction the United States is currently taking. I’m disappointed in my country. Disappointed in the fact that Americans continue to confidently stand by the inhumane values and offensive remarks of President Trump, whose views are rooted in racism and a fixation on money. It upsets me how people seem to be afraid to challenge the status quo. There is a growing norm for people in positions of power to cater to Trump and his advisors in order to gain recognition, status, or a taste of power. The extent to which some people will go in order to feel heard is demonstrated by this kind of people-pleasing at the highest levels of leadership.
Something Has Made Me Black Playlist
The Sky is Crying by Elmore James
- “The sky is crying/look at the tears roll down the street/I’m waiting in tears/Looking for my baby/And I wonder where she can be?”
- I am connecting this particular song to my mental health. Over the past months, I have grown more depressed and sad, so much so that I have lost sight of who I am and who I used to be.
Bring it On Home by Sam Cooke
- This song stood out to me because it reminds me of losing myself. Although meaning is about longing for lost love, a decision of regret. I long for my past self, the time when I had more energy and when I had self-respect and boundaries set in place. I miss the person I used to be.
Sinners Prayer by Ray CHarles, B.B. King
- This song is about a man who promises to change his old ways.
- This song reminds me of the people who call themselves devoted Christians, while they have no empathy for people of color and the minority population.
- Trump referred to calling Africa nations “shithole countries” back in 2018
- Trump commented on the January 6, 2021, Capitol event, “I am a friend of the police, more than any president who has been in this office.”
You Got Some Mud in Your Soul
Mercy Mercy Me by Marvin Gaye
- We must reflect on our decisions and behaviors, because words and actions matter.
Someday We’ll All Be Free by Donny Hathaway
- Provides me with hope that one day I will reach a place where I am proud of my past self.
Till It’s Done (Tutu) by D’Angelo
- “Questions: that call to us, we all reflect upon: where do we belong? Where do we come from?”
- “Carbon pollution is heating up the air: do we know? Do we care?