Its been almost 11 years since I big chopped and I havent looked back since. Originally, my purpose in going natural was to 1. Save money and time because I hated getting my hair done and the upkeep of a relaxer. 2. Have big beautiful puffy hair like the lady I had been hair crushing on for weeks on the #3 bus lol. I HAVE saved money. I have NOT saved much time lol. But I actually enjoy doing my hair now so its not the chore that relaxed hair was for me back then. And I dig my hair but I still think hers is more awesome, whoever she is lol. I wouldnt have guessed how my lil quest to be cute on a budget would exceed my expectations just by being natural. It often pulls me out of my introverted comfort zone. It has helped me build more confidence. It has drawn some really great people in my direction. And I just feel more like ME than I ever did relaxed. I am not my hair, but my hair and the so called journey of being natural is definitely a part of me. I am natural because I love natural hair! My goals in being natural have shifted from being centered around just me and have radiated outward to include community. I love my hair, and I love your hair, his hair, and hers too lol. I love the textures and styles but I also love the culture and discussions and fellowship it brings along with it. That being said, I have never struggled with going back to a relaxer because my personal expectations and goals are being met and I am satisfied. I am and will remain #TEAMNATURAL, always. But even more than that, I am #TEAMHAPPY and #TEAMDOWHATYOUWANT. Everyone simply does not have the same goals in being natural. Not everyone finds satisfaction in 2hr twistout sessions and overnight homemade deep conditioning recipes. Some of us feel our best with a sleek do and a swooped bang that they dont have to re-flatiron every morning. And to that I say go for it sister! If being natural isnt satisfying for you or meeting the goals/expectations you had in mind after much effort, then whats the point? Do what makes YOU happy, what makes YOU feel beautiful, shoot... do what gets you out of the house on time in the morning! And while Ill always encourage healthier options than relaxer, I realize some people do make that choice and its not the end of the world. The ancestors will not rise from the grave and impale you with a metal fist pic lol. I, for one, am not keeping score or measuring your level of black consciousness or pride based on how you wear your hair. I am admiring your confidence, your friendly demeanor, and your smile. Because authenticity has so much more to do with your spirit than with your hairstyle. Peace! Dreeny Paine
Posted on: Tue, 19 Aug 2014 01:08:11 +0000
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