The Most African Thing About Me: Celebrating My Roots and Culture

Introduction

As someone with deep African heritage, I often reflect on the elements that define my identity as a person of African descent. Whether it's my physical features, cultural practices, or personal values, each aspect contributes to the rich tapestry of my life.

Physical Features

Cinnamon Copper Skin: My skin takes on hues reminiscent of cinnamon and copper, a reflection of my African heritage. This distinctive skin tone is a symbol of my connection to the continent's diverse and vibrant palette of skin colors.

Full Lips and Curly/Wavy Hair: My full lips and curly or wavy hair are features that celebrators of Afro-textured beauty proudly embrace. These features are not just physical attributes but a statement of my cultural identity.

Broad, Angular Nose: My nose is more than just a facial feature—it’s a reminder of my connection to the ancient civilizations of Africa.

Lean Build: My strong and lean build is a product of the agricultural and cultural environments that shaped me. It's a testament to the hardy and resourceful nature of my ancestors.

Cultural Practices and Values

Principles of MA’AT and Kwanzaa: My adherence to the principles of MA’AT, an ancient Egyptian concept of truth, balance, and order, and celebration of Kwanzaa, a pan-African holiday, underscores my cultural roots. These values offer a foundation for understanding the world.

Spicy Food and Nature: My love for spicy food is a connection to Africa's rich culinary traditions, while my respect for nature reflects a deep appreciation for the environment that nurtured my childhood. Growing up in nature, I developed a strong bond with the natural world.

Community and Family

Large Family: The idea of a large family, where immediate and extended family blur boundaries, is a significant aspect of my cultural identity. This interconnectedness fosters a sense of community and responsibility within the family.

Respect for Elders: Respecting elders, regardless of personal opinions, is a cultural norm. Bowing, kneeling, or lying flat when greeting them is a sign of respect rooted in traditional customs.

Education and Success: Education is highly valued, and success is often measured by professional achievements such as being a doctor, engineer, or lawyer. However, failure is not an option.

Bargaining in Markets: The practice of bargaining in local markets is both a cultural and economic behavior. It's a way to haggle and negotiate, fostering a sense of individuality and the art of haggling is deeply ingrained.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the most African thing about me is the acknowledgment and subsequent respect I have for my ancestral lineage. Embracing this connection is not just a pride in my heritage, but a commitment to my cultural identity. This connection is something I will not ignore, deny, or cast aside. It is part of who I am, and it is a proud part of my life's journey.