Everywhere I turn, there are new stories of lives of Black men snuffed out well before their prime.  This has me thinking about my future children.  How does one tell their son the story of Oscar Grant or Travyon Martin?  How do you tell a child that there are certain things that their friends can do, but he simply can not?  This has inspired me to write this letter to my future son.

Dear Son,

Know that you are loved.  Regardless of what society tells or what the media says, you are always loved. The world may not always be in your favor, but I am.  Your family is always on your side.

When doing certain things, you may have to take extra precaution.  That does not make you less than anyone else.  You come from kings and queens.  You history is rich with leaders and intellects.  Never forget that. Never let anyone try to convince you that you are anything less than greatness.

Your future is not predestined because you are not a statistic.  You are coming into a world where the sky is your limit. No one is allowed to tell you differently.  There were many strong Black men and women that have forged paths for you. They struggled to make this world less of a strain for you.  Never forget those who have come before you and their sacrifices.

Above all else, know that you are needed and that you have a purpose in this world,

Love,

Your Future Mother