3 minute read
Coat of Many Colors
COAT OF MANY by Krystal Carr Sancho
COLORS
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The phrase ,“Coat of Many Colors”, was adopted from the biblical story of Joseph who was gifted a coat as a signet of his father’s undying affection for his beloved son. To re-energize that concept and bring it into the climate of the day, the “Coat of Many Colors” represents the adversity, the fortitude, the perseverance, and the versatility of the AFRICAN AMERICAN CULTURE. We are all men and every woman wrapped in one body.
Colored is what they called us, BLACK is what we choose to be. However, we should not be offended by whatever they call us. Not because they are intimidating to us, but because they are intimidated by us. Let’s analyze the word “colored”; Miriam and Webster primarily define the base word “color” to mean a phenomenon of light or visual perception that enables one to differentiate otherwise identical objects; the suffix “-ed” means to act in the past. Although derived from derogatory beginnings, the word “colored” suggests that from the beginning the “colored” have been a phenomenon, an unexplainable and remarkable beacon of light set apart from otherwise identical beings. BLACK is defined as the presence of ALL color and the presence of all things colored. Our melanin rich skin is harvested from the richly endowed soils of Africa that contain minerals such as copper, gold, diamonds, and platinum. We were born rich and it’s high time that we begin to recognize our value. In contrast, white is defined as the absence of color; without hue. These references are not meant to spark pretentious issues of race or importance, but to enlighten some and inform others that we are all of equal relevance. If we would truly unite, there are no limits to what we can become. Come, let us paint this literal and figurative picture together… A painter begins a masterpiece with certain tools and supplies. He has an easel, a blank canvas, assorted paintbrushes, and multi-colored paints. If we tske away the color, what then remains? Without color all that is left is a blank slate. A masterpiece is created through the hands of the artist and the union of the paint with the canvas. One lacks luster and brilliance without the other. We are all important to one another and should build seamless relationships on truths to produce masterpieces of harmony, reverence, and adoration.
When asked to mentally conceptualize a garment woven in the “fabric of love” that embodies love, peace, and unity, CLAVON LEONARD- fashion designer- passionately describes, “ the structure of man in a suit to represent dignity and integrity; the lapel saturated with the heart of a woman; the sleeves infused with vibrant colors to symbolize the children, an extension of the family; trousers that exemplify strength in uprising.” “The suit in its entirety is the embodiment of the black family; mended together is the structure of the man, the love of the woman, and the excitement of the youth.”
BEARD
SILVER STALLION EDITION
by Jozette Cooper
The transition from black stallion to white thoroughbred, as it pertains to the bearded beau, may come with opposing feels. Most black men embrace “going grey” as a mark of sophistication, prudence, prestige, and strength. While others reject it as an unwelcomed sign of waning youth or simply put… ageing.
Although the process of ageing is inevitable, there are other known factors that contribute to these “grey areas”. Genetics, health issues, stressors, and vitamin deficiencies are among the few named causes of greying hair. Regardless of the factors or feelings towards this transformation, proper care and maintenance will make a huge impact on the appearance of those fruitfully feathered white whiskers.
As we mature, the cells known as melanocytes that live around the hair follicle reduces in melanin production and eventually die causing the hair to appear grey. Caring for the “old grey hair” requires a different approach as the loss of pigmentation ultimately yields rigid, unruly, and wiry strands of hair. These hairs become the most difficult to tame when in the “ombré effect”, grading shades from dark to light, as the hair has reduced in elasticity and strength. The absence of melanin in the cortex can also lead to the formation of a tighter cuticle layer, making grey strands impenetrable with color treatments.
The classic man may choose to mask the appearance of the ageing process or “ombré effect” by attempting to color their greys; in contrast, the distinguished gentlemen will mount that white horse, shout “Hi Yo, Silver!, and ride off into the sunset. Here a few play strategies for keeping that wild white horse tamed:
