Perception

I've been told many a time that I look like my father, until they see my mother. Each of them soon conclude that it's in our walk. I carry myself with strength. Like a soldier. Like my father.

There are a few could deduce from this statement, but I'll start with this conclusion: perception is reality. No matter the way I may look on any particular day, I always carry myself the same way.  As a young, black, intelligent female, it is important to me that I carry myself with respect. Especially if I expect anybody else to treat me that way. With respect.

When encountering an individual you've never met, the stereotype they feel best fits you has already been enforced. I've been told that I walk in public with a mean look on my face, my rebuttal is that I simply keep myself ignorant to the irrelevant. So when walking the streets my mind is still moving a mile a minute unbothered by how you may perceive me. Why bother with the aesthetics if you're only going to judge me based off of that alone anyway? 

I enjoy breaking the stereotype. From my hair, to my tattoos, to my body piercings and even my clothing, I am received well. People enjoy my conversation. My bird's eye view of the world. I can easily articulate anything that I am knowledgeable of or passionate about. I enjoy that in other individuals, and though I can't expect the same from others, it doesn't change me, let alone the dip in my walk.