The Black American Flag“Unprepared for this monumental task, she chose life. My mother put her trust in the family of my father. It wasn’t perfect, but she chose what she believed was the best for my survival”
-Brodie Jr
Growing up on the south side of Chicago, in the mid to late 70’s and the 80’s, was a special time. Even becoming an adult during the 90’s was it’s own, kind of, remarkable. I was born to an 18 year old mother and 19 year old dad. In hindsight I can see why my father’s parents raised me.
The innocence of a child
I have the privilege of fathering 7 children. Looking at my baby picture gives me a perspective that only a loving father can appreciate. Rearing children is such a challenging thing. Keeping them safe, fed, clothed, delighted, etc. is nothing short of a full time job. My grandparents raised 5 children of their own and when I came on the scene, I was number 6. My grandmother adored me and did her best to make sure I didn’t want for anything.
Significant moment in my childhood
I was about 11 or 12 in this photo. The reason for the tux is that a young lady invited me to escort her to her cotillion. Up until that point, I had never heard of such a thing. Before the day of the cotillion, we spent weeks practicing different levels of etiquette. From gallantry to dancing and dinning, I was given instructions that greatly shaped who I am today.
Senior year, a pivotal moment heading into adulthood
The summer of 1993 I went on 4 prom’s. In fact, I went to prom every year of high school. Even though I was raise by my grandparents, I still lacked a sense of direction and discipline. Sure, I was kind, fine, light hearted and likable, but I was missing those fundamental attributes. My looks and personality, I’d come to find out, would only take me but so far. It was cool for senior year but I would grow to realize that more aspects of my personality would need to be developed.
Read more