I semi-big chopped about 3months ago. I did not decide to go natural for any deep political reason or as an attempt to make a statement. I honestly did not know the first thing about obtaining healthy hair or how to even care for my curls. Going natural was something I thought about doing for a long time but I could never bring myself to let go of the weaves and embrace the kinks.
This was a major step in my reinvention of self. I needed a change. I wanted to feel like a “new” woman, so I let my best friend take a pair of scissors to my locks and I have not looked back since.
My natural hair journey has been amazing thus far. Now, when I say amazing, in no way am I referring to my actual transitioning hair. My hair is actually a nightmare most of the time, but the journey…the journey itself is amazing lol.
The day after I cut my hair, I felt great. I felt confident. I felt free.
You have to have confidence to rock a mane of kinky curls or else you will revert back to your old damaging hair habits. Natural Hair is not a “fad”. It is a movement! African-American women embracing their true selves is a much larger concept than just a hairstyle. It is about self-love, and I am happy to be nappy!
I'm to know that hair isn't political for all of us. Reinvention is a great way to explain what going natural is.
well put Tyesia.
Kandeezie…I believe the author said she didn't go natural for any "deep" political reason. It's possible there are certain levels of political to her. She mentioned she wanted to reinvent herself, she needed a change and wanted to feel like a new woman. Fortunately she changed into the "new" woman that ended up being her real "natural" self. That's a blessing.
I believe when you're genuinely trying to educate someone it should be for THEIR elevation and edification. Delivery is key.
your hair looks fabulous!
Tyesia I know exactly what you mean I first semi BC a week ago today and then I couldn't handle the two textures so Friday 2/18 was my offical BC and your right you do feel a sense of freedom and feel like a new person. I'm loving this journey thus far and the new me!!
She says she didn't do it for political reasons, yet says it's a movement about self-love and self-acceptance. O_o That's what the political reasons are!
I think "politics" is often used as a dirty word when oppressed people try to be less oppressed. At the end of the day, the personal is political. If you have to meet resistance to be your natural self – either socially or internally – that's political. Politics is how we got basic civil rights. Let's not forget that.
"Nappy" is a very degrading term used to describe the natural hair texture of African/Black women. It was created by Caucasian people. It's a wonder most people don't realize this.