As I’ve constantly stated, the natural journey is not an easy one to pull off, and is most definitely not for the faint of heart. It’s not just about the hair, because surprisingly once I learned how to maintain my natural texture, I learned that my hair is not as “bad” as I’d once feared (images of dark brown Brillo pads constantly plagued me in the beginning). It’s soft and only slightly coiled when it’s been properly moisturizers, and even when wet it is a whole lot more tangle-free than when my hair was relaxed! But, the psychological aspects of the journey can be a bit taxing. Because the process is so very personal, it’s easy to become bruised by off-hand comments or out-ot-the way glances/stares, which will have you fighting the urge to run out for a new relaxer kit against your own best wishes. Graciously I have been blessed with a very strong natural hair support group within my circle of friends, and while all of them may not be on the same path, they never cease to keep me encouraged and focused on my goal to remain hair chemical free from here on out!
So this post is for all of you. Whether you’ve left a comment here or sent one to me personally, and regardless of the length of time we’ve been in association, your words have worked wonders with keeping me away from that jar of Motions super at Sally’s. *lol* Even if we’ve never shared a single word, virtually or IRL. Just knowing that you are reading this Blog, and hopefully getting something from it, helps to keep me in a positive state of mind concerning the transition.
I will not even make an attempt at listing you all, for fear my memory will fail the sentiment of my heart. But you all know who you are, and should know that I appreciate you more than words can say.
To the biggest proponent of my switch… Your support and encouragement were the flames that lit the fuse, and I’m ever so grateful. One of my biggest hurdles to get over was how my decision would affect any relationship I was involved in once I stopped perming my hair. But that wasn’t the issue with you since you were on board from day minus-one. *lol*
So to those considering taking that first step upon the road back to natural, know that the greatest “must have” after you’ve chosen your transition method and hair are regimen, is to surround yourself with positive minded people who are either natural themselves, making the switch, or very supportive of your plight. Join a few groups and forums created for natural hair networking. It doesn’t matter if they’re online entities of RL circles, as long as you can connect to someone who knows your struggles and can personally relate to your triumphs. The presence of these support systems make all the difference in the world on those days when you’re questioning your choice… and they will come, trust me.
Blessed Be…
Idadi
