22

Today is my son’s birthday! He’s 22. Wow! What was I doing at the ripe age of 22? You don’t want to know. When I think about how the news is filled with reports about the death of young black men, it saddens and scares me. I am a mother of a Black son. A wife to a Black man. A grandmother to three Black boys. If I’m not careful and fail to use wisdom to know when it’s time to remove myself from watching and listening to the news and negativity, I will be filled with dread, anxiousness, overwhelming fear, and apprehension about what the future holds for my son. That’s an awful way to live, and I refuse to live that way. I pray for the countless mothers who have endured the excruciating pain of losing their children, especially to gun violence, police brutality, and racism. I cannot imagine. This world is divided, chaotic, and lacks love.

Yet, I am hopeful. When I look at my three grandsons and I hold the youngest– who is now seven weeks – one in my arms, I’m encouraged and inspired.

I am blessed to see my only son reach 22 years old, and I am grateful. God has granted me one more day, another year to celebrate Kaleb’s life, accomplishments, talents, and gifts.

Most importantly, and what definitely matters, I get to witness my son’s love and desire to please the Lord. He has a heart to serve and worship God. I am extremely blessed!

I know life can be hard, especially for Black men. As a mother and a follower of Christ, I must place my son (my daughter, grandsons, husband, and entire family) in His hands. I must trust God DAILY to protect, guide, bless, and keep all of us. I cannot be consumed with worry and what ifs because time waits for no one. And all my worrying will change nothing (Matt. 6:25-34). It’s just wasted time. Therefore, I must use my time wisely and thank God for His love and care for my Black son and family. Honor God for my son’s life and the assignment He has charged him.

²⁵ “So I tell you, don’t worry about the things you need to live—what you will eat, drink, or wear. Life is more important than food, and the body is more important than what you put on it. ²⁶ Look at the birds. They don’t plant, harvest, or save food in barns, but your heavenly Father feeds them. Don’t you know you are worth much more than they are? ²⁷ You cannot add any time to your life by worrying about it.

Matthew 6:25, ERV

Here’s my charge to you, son:

Kaleb, may today be filled with love, laughter, smiles, gifts, sweet wishes, encouragement, and enjoyment. May you remember to celebrate your accomplishments, big and small, giving glory to God for every one of them. May you live for Jesus Christ, knowing He is your Source, Strength, and Peace. May you always know that God is your faithful Lord. He is your Defender and Keeper. May you remain humble and continuously look to our Heavenly Father for all things. Amen.

Will you help me celebrate my son, Kaleb? Today, he has reached another milestone. What an amazing blessing to behold!

Are you a Black male? Read these inspirational quotes from Black men, and be encouraged to walk in freedom!

Your sis,