photo by Maza Rey Photography
I believe that we belong to each other.
For most of our time on this planet, humans have relied on the lessons and wisdom of our family and friends. On our community.
We rely on the experiences of our community to help us find our way. To shine a light as we make meaning of our lives. To root for us as we explore our purpose. Together we share the exhilaration of our successes and pain of our setbacks.
This communion with one another is a source of strength, a method of accountability, a space to rest our bones, to heal.
My own journey toward healing has not been a solo trip by any means. My soul, like so many others’, has been hungry for the nurturing and the sustenance of community. And I found circles of healing, to be sure. Yet, even in these circles, surrounded by some of the most wonderful people, I still felt a bit lonely.
I began to understand more and more clearly that I was missing connection to the part of myself that is a reflection of ancestors, of family I never knew. I yearned to see the world through the eyes of my brothers, my fathers, uncles and cousins, nephews and neighbors.
To put a finer point on it: I came to understand that what I wanted was to be in community with other men who shared the experience of being black.
I felt called to be in spaces of intention as we grapple with our own unique experience within the context of patriarchy and the lie of black inferiority. I needed a space of joy and vulnerability alongside other black men, just like the other circles I have learned so much from. And, I quickly understood that I was not alone in this deep calling to connect. The community of men I spoke with wanted and needed that space as well.
It’s not hard to understand the desire to heal and re-claim our wholeness. It is also no easy task.
But we are embarking on the task, launching new spaces of intention specifically for black men. So, I am excited and proud to announce and introduce the Black Obsidian Men’s Group.
Starting in December, The Black Obsidian Men’s Group will create spaces for wisdom and courage. Spaces where vulnerability and connection are fostered through group discussions and workshops. Safe spaces where we can gather together to develop or deepen healing practices like yoga, meditation, or drumming. Spaces of deep rest and belonging, where black men can commune with one another without the outside gaze of white supremacy.
We will kick off with a retreat in mid-December which will include a balance of workshops, personal reflection and group activities. We envision men’s groups in communities across the state that will support the healing and thriving of black men.
The groups will be bonded by shared values and, at the same time, unique in their expression of those values. They are experiential and participatory, with each group deciding what they will do to support their individual and collective growth.
I am excited about what is possible. Honored by the responsibility entrusted in me and grateful to be a part of the change I want to see in the world. I am not sure that I have ever truly understood the term labor of love. I do now.
It is my hope that these groups will live on until they do not seem unusual. That they provide the space for any black man who wants them, to flourish. This flourishing will not happen in a season or two. It will take time, work, love, patience, persistence and a dogged insistence that we deserve a world where we all truly belong.
Black Obsidian is formed from the rapid cooling of lava. It is said to be an excellent stone to aid in healing work, and is a powerful cleanser of negative energy. It has properties that serve to ground an individual to Mother Earth and connect with ancestral lineage. This black stone can assist in the release of disharmony built up in our day-to-day lives. It also serves as a symbol of our effort to restore our wholeness.
Anyone who identifies as a black male is welcome. Please reach out to me for more information. I look forward to the connection, community and healing to come.
Learn more about Potent Perspective Coaching
To reach out to Eric directly: Eric@potentperspective.com or 203-800-6870
Eric I am wishing you the very best in this endeavor. It touches my heart that you are gathering up this part of us to help heal. I believe like you we belong to each other. So why wouldn’t we have tremendous healing to offer ?
Amazing
Áse!