Sunday, April 6, 2014

LIKE A ROARING LION Excerpt


JACQUELINE YOUNG-WELLS

The thought of walking away sent me into a tailspin. There has to be another way for this scenario to play itself out. My family and close acquaintances continue to be livid about the choices I have made, however, I expect them to respect me and be less loquacious about their displeasure. It is my life and I will have to live or die with my decisions.

I must admit, I would love to have a second spin at the wheel. Perhaps I would have recognized the signs and sought counsel before forging forward. I would have entertained the discussions when my loved ones and friends attempted to broach the subject of my relationship. Instead, I closeted myself within the walls of my fairytale and remained silent. Sure, there were instances when I toyed with the idea that someone would understand. Yet, I was more convinced that I would be judged and ridiculed.


I accused my family of bigotry, when they approached me about my marriage. I could not hear their words for the racial slurs I heard in their voices. My father wanted me to marry one of the deacons in his church, one that understood my background; someone who could assist in raising children that respected the boundaries that exist in society. He thought he had instilled those values in me and I am haunted by the disgust in his eyes, when I chose my husband; a tall, beautiful and intelligent African American.


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