As I watched the televised opening ceremony for The Obama Presidential Center, my soul smiled. There was a magical nostalgia that brought tears to my eyes. I was reminded of the composure in his voice, as it was with my own father Woodie (who died when I was in my twenties. His long suffering from cancer, called the black lung, forced a painful death at the age of 52). I miss my father, and to be honest, I’m always amazed by adults who still have a father but seem to take for granted that he’ll always be around to ask, “How are you doing?”
True, not all fathers are present, or have ever been present, but for those who have stood by their children or set aside the weariness of a long work day, you are the Barack Obama. A man with words that inspire with a few sentences. A man who can calm with a glance and steadfastly make a catastrophe carve out a solution.
I feel men, particularly Black Men need to be recognized as a part of our American Experience, first coming on ships as slaves, then moving through generations of ups and downs, and ins and outs. No, it’s not about one family’s story called ROOTS; it’s about realizing that All Black Men have a story compiled of dreams, disappointments, laughter, tears, and hopes. Some never get to realize these basic feelings, because they’re incarcerated or killed—even so, I believe their souls still have a story worth remembering—and worth saying a prayer over.
What stirs me about The Obama Presidential Center is its commitment to mentor, particularly at-risk Black Youths, to help them find a place called a second home and hear someone to ask—How are you doing?—This is their American Experience.
Inspirational deeds and an unselfish heart are the legacy President Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama have poured into the Obama Presidential Center. It represents much more than a Grand Opening. It extends a hand to lift up those who need someone to ask, “How are you doing?”—and really care to listen.
Beautiful!!
Summer, your single word has ouched me with understanding and love.
Bless you, dearest Cheryl, for your glimpse into the plight of Black American Men via your own experience of being raised by a kind father who suffered and died from Black Lung disease, as well as the desire of President Obama to serve them through his Presidential Center and beyond. I was moved to tears by your description of so many Black Men’s “stories” being cut short by violence, death or incarceration. Long before I met you, I witness this very tragic dilemma, first through their literature, then, through Black actors in “The Great White Hope” on Broadway who used to frequent a NYC British pub who I met and befriended, where I worked while studying acting with Uta Hagen. God Bless them and their plight and you for your ability to uplift them through the tales you tell in the written word.
Dear Donna, my history is so entwined with generations before me. I am speechless when we look at where the country, I was born in, is heading. If only the ghosts of the past, could reach into the minds and hearts of those who hold fire to their feet. My father, who I am so much alike, instilled in me to always believe in the good of others. I try and remember his words, when the times I sink into a depression of hopelessness for my race, who built the foundation of America.
Very moving! Well done!
Thank you Terrie, as we are cousins and you knew my father loved road trips. Visiting the Obama Heritage Center would have been a something that would have moved Dad.
The reality is, your father was a true hero, an unsung hero. He reached down deep into his soul and rose up in the face of white supremacy. The horrors that destroyed so many innocent and loving people. I hope the Obama Museum helps to bring the realities and perspectives of Black History into sharp focus, so especially the young will find sanctuary and a better understanding of the struggles of their forefathers as they navigate this godless land. Thank you, Cheryl.
Thank you Michael for your moving words. I’d like to believe that President Obama can and does resonate inside millions of people, both men and women. We are better than political parties. We are pillars who have stories of heritage keeping strong. My father, a humble man, passed on to me so much of his quiet wisdom.
I too rejoiced at the opening ceremony of The Obama Presidential Center. Hearing both Barack and Michele reminded me of why I love America – two gracious voices that express the true values of what it means to be human, black or white and or . . . Thanks for this Cheryl, it’s always good to know there are others such as yourself who carry the same sensibilities. Much love to you and Tom.
Visiting the Obama Presidential Center is a real goal. I smile with joyful tears.