"Cool Crowd"

​          We all are looking for something in life. One thing that all human beings look for and want is ACCEPTANCE. Why is being accepted by other individuals and or organizations so important to us? They are just people and it’s just that simple. I know we all go through this as children growing up and children are taught to feel that way. In elementary and high school, we are looking to make friends and hopefully be part of the “cool crowd”. The “cool crowd” sets the status in the school and neighborhood that we live in. Our parents whom have gone through the same thing in their childhood, don’t really know how to deal with this issue of acceptance. This want and need then follows us into adulthood. There should be a point in that growth where you develop your own character and values. This happens for some people but there are still many that don’t transition well.
 
          I watched coverage of the Academy awards (Oscars) in 2016 and was disappointed but not surprised at the actions that were taking place by African Americans. I am disappointed because as a culture we are still looking for acceptance in America. I can’t for the life of me understand why blacks want to be accepted by people and or organizations. We have even created our own award shows (BET, NAACP, etc) but of course they’re not of the same stature as the Grammy’s and the Oscar’s. The reason why they aren’t of the same stature is due to the culture not sticking together and taking ownership. Why are you complaining and upset about black people not having enough representation in an environment that was not meant for you. This “acceptance” could have happened organically but of course no one wants to sacrifice ego or money. If African Americans don’t attend the non-diverse events, the reaction to that is automatic change.   
 
          African Americans have suffered from lack of unity since the years of slavery. There will never be change in the culture until unity is established totally. I would like to say that I am not for segregation at all. I feel we all should be one, but if you are expecting change and acceptance the route that is being taken is totally incorrect. White America will never accept you because they know they still have the power to divide you in certain areas. Accept yourself first, accept your family and friends secondly, and third accept the culture as a whole. The steps listed are just my thoughts of how to overcome this acceptance issue that African Americans have and the rest of the world as well. I want all individuals to be self-fulfilled and enriched with happiness and love first. 

​Written By: Ronald Anthony Wilson.