Blessing Black History Month

My son's biological father is 50% Italian, 50% African American and 100% confused about his identity. Growing up in the 70's, he was neither Italian enough nor African American enough.

Now that I'm a single mom, I often find myself at a loss as to how to "correctly" teach my son about his heritage.

No, I'm not just referring to what my son calls his "blackness". There are at least 5 different backgrounds co-mingling in his little body! (Excluding ancestors we cannot account for.)

In the end, I teach him in a purely historical context, emphasizing how things have changed, how everyone is different in some ways and especially how our world is now a melting pot of cultures, religions and "races". Just like we are.

While searching for a Valentine's Day prayer for my blog, I found a website that contained a beautiful blessing for Black History Month as well.

"God of peace, thank you for a society that honors the achievements and sacrifices of all people. This February, bless all who, in the spirit of Black History Month, seek to bring Your world together, rather than to tear it apart. Bless all Your beloved children, Loving Father, and teach us to live together in peace, now and always. Amen."

This pretty much sums up how I feel about the positive changes we've made in embracing diversity. Truly, this should be something we keep in mind throughout the entire year. Not just for one month.

Respect the Creator, respect all His creations. Regardless of what race, color, creed or different-ability.

Wishing you much peace, happiness and success,

[Prayer slightly modified from the one found at Suite101's Protestantism Prayers for February; however, I am not Protestant, nor do I claim any specific path as my own at this time.]