2017, the year black women took a seat at the table.

First off, let’s address the melancholy tone that left us all confidently confused on how to feel about 2017. America, reluctantly accepted its piece of shit President, Donald J Trump and the circus that he calls a cabinet. Black women found themselves embracing their melanin, hair and bold voices as well as saving the Democratic Party; big surprise.

Whether it was Angela Rye speaking politics in a way that only a Black and Brown woman could truly appreciate or “Queen” Maxine Waters reminding us the value of our time. 2017, was the year for Black women to embrace their magic and all that comes along with it. Atlanta has a Mayor named Keisha and let us not forget the modern day Cinderella that is Cardi B, former stripper who became a brand and now Grammy nominated artist and Fiancé. Anything is possible, right?! Wrong. Let us not ignore the losses we endured throughout the year.

Democratic and liberal Americans said goodbye to Supreme Court seat to far-right Republican that is Justice Scalia, and the Republicans passed a tax bill, that will make poor graduate students look rich in the eyes of the IRS. Last but not least, activist and blacktivist lost a true soldier in the fight for civil rights, Erica Garner, daughter of Eric Garner who was killed at the hands of police for selling cigarettes illegally. Erica passed after suffering irreconcilable complications after a heart attack. May she Rest In Peace.

This leads me to my last and very important piece of wisdom that 2017 has taught us Black women; SELF CARE IS A MUST!

I know you all have seen the blogs, vlogs and Instagram influencers make self care look like an expensive trip to the spa, or an unrealistic journey abroad, but self care is so much more, or less, than that. Take time to self-reflect, meditate, journal and just be during your busy days. Please make sure you’re eating a healthy and conscious diet. This does not mean jumping on the vegan train like so many have done this year after watching the Netflix bombshell, “What the Health”. Overall, treat yourself the best and love you the most.

If this isn’t enough inspiration to Black women around the globe to step boldly in their truth then you haven’t been paying attention.

– Candidly Crystal

#blackwoman #lifestyle #newbeginnings #WomenofTheWorld