LETTER ART: Black Men Smile

by Eso Tolson

As a Black man, I smile in the face of adversity. I smile in the face of opposition. And right now I smile for a Black man who can no longer, George Floyd. Although it should be, smiling is not easy, especially on days like this. Days where simply being a Black man can get you killed. Yea, Smiling is almost impossible. But, after all I’ve been through over the years, I’m still here. So I smile again.

For me, smiling isn’t about ignoring the reality of life. It’s about resistance. It’s about reclaiming power. It’s about taking control. My life will NOT be reduced to struggle and turmoil. I have to smile. And even when it seems like everything is falling apart, I learned to keep smiling.

I don’t do it in attempt to cover up the hurt and pain. I acknowledge the existence of both when they enter in my space. And I spend as much time as need with them. But, they can’t stay. So, I kick them out when it’s time for them to go (Cause they don’t leave on their own). That way, when I smile, its real. I’ve done the work for it. I earned it.

Smiling comes from this place deep within. A place of hope. A place of peace. A place of wonder. A place of pride. A place of strength. Smiling is is vulnerable and takes courage. That’s why I smile.

So, Smile Black man! it’s worth it. And so are you!

Eso is a lettering artist and branding strategist who creates work rooted in affirmation, pride, and community that allows people to feel safe and inspired. At Cheers Creative, Memphis-based brand and web consultancy, he teaches branding through strategy and storytelling for creative professionals, thought leaders, and social causes. As a lover of community, pop culture, and innercity life, he uses lettering to highlight current events and promote positive social messages and affirmations. FOLLOW ESO

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