THE TIGER AND THE TORCH ebook

through such horrific experiences can be seen in the genes of their descendants.
These studies seek to quantify the longitudinal impact on formerly enslaved
persons and their bloodline. Early findings support the idea that some African
Americans could be susceptible to what is called post-traumatic slave syndrome.
Further study is needed in this field and is currently taking place.
ROAR! “NOTHING IS MORE DIFFICULT THAN TRYING TO CORRECT
HISTORY.” 125 MYLES MUNROE
Another phenomenon that reflects the impact of negative experiences involves
the behaviors associated with identity. There have been multiple names
deemed to be politically correct (PC) for African Americans such as Negro,
Colored, Black and Afro-American just to name a few. Each one represents a
separate era in our history. In the late 70’s and early 80’s the PC term was
Black 126, 127 and it continues to be used now. Why so many names? That question
raises concerns inside and outside of the Black community and opens the floor
for learning about what it means to be misunderstood and restricted in America.
Even still, we have specific contributions to make to the world and should not
allow what happened to us in the past interrupt our present or determine our
future.
ROAR! ZORA NEALE HURSTON SAID, “THERE ARE YEARS THAT ASK
QUESTIONS AND YEARS THAT ANSWER.” 128
Over time we will make even greater progress if we deliberately choose to
confidently and unapologetically stand together for what’s ours. We must be
aware that what we do on the local level shapes our national history and vice
versa. We should support the leaders who are answering our questions and
solving problems. Better still, we should be leaders who answer questions and
solve problems. There is often a single defining moment that permanently alters
the trajectory of a major decision or course of action. It is that solitary instance
when the light goes on and stays on. This becomes possible when our past and
our present purposely converge. From there we can create a monumental
future that is rich with history and full of relevance. One person’s story can give
a voice to many others.
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