Just Being Me
IT DOESN’T MATTER HOW YOU DEFINE ME: I WILL ALWAYS LOVE DETROIT!
Here I am this crazy, quirky, emotional, eccentric, unique, walk to the beat of my own drum kind of girl that wear many different attitudes! Let me tell you that your first impression of me would be she aiiiriighhtt and somewhat quiet! However, my closest family and friends can’t wait to express to you that once I am comfortable, “She talks so much, loves ice cream and butterflies and oh by the way she loves to talk.” Whatever anyone’s perception is about me one description will remain the same: “She Loves Detroit!”
MY FIRST ENCOUNTER WHICH INSPIRED ME TO WRITE ABOUT WHY I LOVE DETROIT
The first time I stood up for Detroit utilizing my writing skills was in my formative years which was eons ago. I remember watching a special segment on “Primetime” television. The program highlighted the violence, arsons, and disturbance specifically during a time that was known as “Devil’s Night.” After watching the show, I was energized to give the producers my personal view of Detroit because I was mad as HELL!!!! I decided to write a letter. I gave them details of how Detroit was played and given a sour note. My letter provided a softer tone of the city. I imparted a tune of how Detroit had prominent neighborhoods and would continue to strive even during distress. Who knows if the letter grasped the hands of a worthy reader or fed the demands of a hungry trash can. All I knew was my mission was completed. Throughout the years I have watched countless efforts to improve Detroit. Eventually, Devil’s Night is now referred to as Angel’s Night. According to Wikipedia the concept of Angel’s Night was officially adopted in 1995 under the administration of Mayor Dennis Archer. Over time the deviation of Devil’s Night was transformed to support the efforts of volunteers and curfews to promote a quieter and safer time during the nights of October 29 through October 31. Yes, Detroit was dealing with imperfections, the infusion of crime, and a bleak economy. However, behind the grittiness and challenging moments I continued to think favorably for change. My eyes viewed a city of Strength while my heart held the thoughts of promise. I knew an uprising would occur but I wish I could have accurately pinpointed the exact second, day, or year.
DOUBTERS GAVE ME STRENGTH TO KEEP FIGHTING AND BELIEVING IN THE MOTOR CITY
As time progressed my Love for Detroit has deepened. I must admit negative images would follow me like a haunting shadow whenever I visited family members living out of state or while I relaxed during an overdue vacation. Individuals would ask me what city was I from. I would proudly state, “Detroit.” People would jokingly make remarks such as, “We better not mess with her she from the D.” They didn’t know I could barely harm a mosquito. I also heard statements such as “Are you afraid to live there?” or “How long are you going to stay in that depressing place?” To be honest there are times when I am fearful but I use caution whether I am in the city or the suburbs. The reason is crime can happen anywhere. There are instances when my Heart can’t take another story of a carjacking, drive by shooting or senseless crime ending in death but crime occurs in all major cities such as Chicago, Philadelphia, and Baltimore. Detroit is not the only city plagued with violence. Yes, I hear the sarcasm but they are unaware it intensifies my Love for Detroit. I adopted the motto while growing up: “They may be hating now but there will be a time when Detroit will show the doubters that brighter days are ahead.”
2 Weeks ago while waiting for my mom on a Bright Sunday Morning for church
TOUGH LOVE NEEDED FOR A TOUGH CITY
Over 30 years later Detroit continues to shed a negative image but a steady and progressive comeback is occurring. The distribution of this uphill transformation hasn’t been distributed evenly. However, change is evident and the demographics are evolving also. I have experienced the tales of the good and evil since I have been able to utter an entire sentence cohesively. I have cried from the pain, I have celebrated from the gains and I have drowned in my thoughts when peace could not be sustained while continuously loving on Detroit. I pray for my city. Also, I will continue to build a positive platform. A Heart Full of Conversations isn’t just a productive outlet for me. This blog is for anyone who would like to collaborate or voice their concerns to improve the image and environment of the Motor City. I realize the blog may not appeal to everyone but someone out there who is on the verge of giving up on Detroit may find inspiration in some of the stories shared through A Heart Full of Conversations. I am very thankful for every individual who takes the time to read a blog post and share amongst others.
Move past your fears and work on your vision!
ONCE YOU REJECT YOUR INNER FEAR YOU CAN ACCEPT WHY IT IS IMPORTANT TO SHARE YOUR VISION WITH THE WORLD
Yes, the introverted side of me often bullies my extroverted self. This action causes me not to be as vocal and active as I would like in the community. It took me six years to write my first blog post after creating a WordPress account in 2011. However, I have learned to progressively move past my fears which is an ongoing process. Writing about Detroit is an apparatus I will always use to defend and advocate for the city. My dedication to interview individuals who are making a conscious investment in the city will shed a positive light for Detroit. I enjoy sharing my thoughts and posts that will create heartfelt conversations and prompt ongoing solutions on how to make ALL of Detroit better! I envision the blog expanding and hosting community events and forums. Eventually, a portion of the proceeds made from products sold from the blog will be donated to support block clubs or community organizations that are dedicated to making a positive impact in the D. Most importantly, I have advice for individuals who struggle to use their voice to advocate for change and operate out of doubt and fear. I encourage you to step out of familiar territory to find your strength, passion and talent to make a difference for whatever cause that is important to your heart and the world!
ORGANIZATIONS MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN THE D!
There are numerous organizations and individuals making a difference. This list only provides a handful. Please share additional information on A Heart Full of Conversations Face Book page to inform readers on how they can get involved!
-Let your heart be full of new ventures that will lead you to the possibilities of limitless conversations!
A Heart Full of Conversations 