Let’s be real, if there’s one thing Black people are going to do, it’s turn pain into power and make a full-blown celebration out of the struggle. If you don’t believe me, just think about the lyrics to the theme song of the 1970s television show Good Times.

“Keepin’ your head above water, makin’ a way when you can. Temporary layoffs . . . Good Times!”

We’ve been singing about our struggle and calling it a vibe for centuries. We are the experts at pulling ourselves up out of the mud, all while coasting through in complete survival mode — and looking fly while we do it. If you pay close attention to the cultural past of our ancestors, you will see a pattern of getting knocked down . . . but not staying down. Sis, no one can buy this type of energy and spirit. It’s rooted in our D.N.A.

We are the definition of finding joy in the middle of the storm. And I know this firsthand because I’ve lived it. I’ve been there and done that. There was a time, about a decade ago, when I was sleeping in my car. Even still, I showed up on red carpets, still hosted panels, and still chased opportunities like my life depended on it — because, to be clear, it did. I didn’t have the luxury of a moment to just fall apart. I was in survival mode, and I had to keep smiling, keep creating, and keep going . . . even when the foundation beneath me felt shaky.

I’ll never forget competing at a hosting workshop through a renown Black film festival. I had driven all the way from Atlanta to New York, living out of my car at the time. I walked into that Rockefeller building with no credits, no agent, no fancy entertainment reel — just faith, raw talent, and a hunger so real you could feel it in the room. I was the only media personality there who hadn’t been featured on TV yet. But I never let any of this define me.

I was rich in spirit, even if my bank account said otherwise. I came in smiling bright because I didn’t lead with lack. I knew if God was taking me through it, then I must be built for it. I led with what I did have — a voice, a presence, an aura, a calling. That moment was pivotal for my career. It showed me how powerful perspective can be. I was determined to win, not in spite of my circumstances, but because of them. I knew I deserved to be in the room and win.

And then it happened. I got the call. I had won a talent meeting with an esteemed television network. They saw me. They felt the vision, even if I showed up without a single credit to my name. My mind was blown.

That season reminded me of what our ancestors have always shown us throughout history — how to rise with grace. How to persevere when every odd is stacked against us. Yes, it will hurt. Yes, it’s tough. But we, as a people, have always been tougher. Our power lies in not allowing our hard moments to define us but in rejoicing through them anyway. That’s what makes us special. That’s what makes us unstoppable. Our ability to turn lemons into lemonade, pain into praise, and pressure into diamonds.

I want to remind you all that you’re stronger than what you think. Your next win is buried beneath what you’re surviving right now. So, if ever you can’t find a reason to love being Black, I just gave you one!

Sis, I ask you. When was the last time you didn’t let a struggle define you? Share in the comments — you know we’re all for hearing your heart and celebrating you!

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