Griffin Speaks

Black and Happy

In 1984 I matriculated at Boston University School of Law Graduate Tax Program. I had many wonderful and unforgettable experiences. One of my most unforgettable moments was when a wealthy white friend asked me two unforgettable questions over dinner. My white friend, a member of one of America’s wealthiest families asked me, “ Greg, how can you be so happy and be black?” “ How is it that you are so much happier than me and I am rich?”

It never crossed my mind that being happy and black was something that someone would find unusual. He was correct, I am a happy black man. He went on to point out to me that 99.9% of White Americans would not trade places with me no matter how wealthy or famous I might become. The fact of the matter was no person in America would choose to be black, because of how badly Blacks are perceived and treated in this country. Chris Rock pointed out in one of his comic routines that he was rich and famous yet not even the dishwasher in the hotel would trade places with him. He went on to say: “You’d probably say, I think I’ll try this white thing a little longer.”

A few moments of thought led me to this response. You know Eric (not his real name); I have never once in my life regretted being born black. I have loved every moment of my life. I have always thanked God for my existence. I am simply very grateful to be alive.

Long before Eric asked me this question I had become aware of how much happier I was than him. I noticed how I loved and respected my parents more than he did. How could this be when his parents were so much more wealthy and more powerful than mine were.

We have all heard the joke that if a white person were to live as a black person for one day he would never want to return as a white person. Is that a true statement? I can only speak for myself and I will tell anyone that I loooove being black! I wouldn’t trade the black experience for anything!

Living in America as a black person is very challenging. However despite crippling circumstances and insurmountable odds we tend to make it! Whatever obstacles come our way we make the best of the situation. Black folk are survivors!

My happiness as a black man stems from my belief in God. I realize that there are people like Eric’s parents that are wealthy and powerful; however, I am still cognizant that my heavenly father is in control of everything. My heavenly father hung the moon and the sun. He controls everything!

My happiness as a black man also stems from my belief that positive thoughts and words ultimately lead to success. I run away from negative thinking people. I allow no one to tell me that being black is a handicap. I have never once entertained the thought that racism would keep me from achieving my goals in life. As a result of this type of thinking I have become one of the happiest black men in America.

When I was a child the legendary James Brown recorded a song that made me very proud to be black. The song was: “SAY IT LOUD I AM BLACK AND I AM PROUD!” This legendary artist will be in Montgomery, Alabama in May of 2003 for the Jubilee Festival. I can hardly wait for him to sing that song in downtown Montgomery, Alabama.

Greg Griffin is a free lance writer. You can read his previous articles by logging on to www.greggriffin.com