Juneteenth remembrance should be a day of rest. Rest is something that I have had problems with. Burned out does not even begin to describe how I felt being an educator and a business owner. The bags under my eyes, my skin, and my body all told the story. Trying to be my Ancestor’s wildest dreams I forgot that their major dream was to rest. To have a choice on when to work. Working hard is ingrained into our DNA. I am making a choice to not only rest in remembrance of Juneteenth, but to rest when my body tells me to.

Our Ancestors wildest dream was to rest.

Our Ancestors wildest dream was to laugh without punishment.

Our Ancestors wildest dream was to create just for themselves.

Our Ancestors wildest dream was freedom.

When we hustle hard, push through, and make a way we are only honoring one part of our Ancestors dreams. Today take time to rest in their honor. Take time to call family and friends to check in. Take time to create. Take time to do anything that gives you pleasure.

How are you honoring your Ancestors today?

The Juneteenth Affirmation is from Julia Mallory, Black Mermaids