It has been said that in the context of Black America, sitings of "real," authentic love is missing. Originating from colonial times, Black men were taught to oppress and objectify Black women. Black women were taught to hate themselves and use sexuality for fulfillment; in return, coming to resent the Black man, looking at him as their oppressor, rather than their companion. In essence, the lack of self love in Blacks created their incapability to love one another--If I can not fully learn to love and appreciate myself, how can I fully love and appreciate someone else? Even writers such as activist and feminist bell hooks has written about her experiences growing up having no real tangible sense of what "real" Black love was. In retrospect, there were, (and still are), few public displays of Black love, and, besides the Cosby Show, there were no other black family shows on television to show Black America how a husband and wife should love, (or at least none i can think of). In fact, I am sure many young Blacks who watched the Cosby Show usually dreamt about their families becoming the Huxtables.
Yet, on Tuesday, at about 8:15 pm, the world got a glimpse of what Black love looks like. As Beyonce sang the Etta James classic "At Last" the Obama's slow danced their first dance as President and First Lady in front of millions. Throughout this presidential race journalists have blogged and complied footage of the affectionate displays and gestures shared between President and First Lady Obama. In a November 2008 issue of the Chicago Tribune, one journalist wrote, "[o]ver the last two years the future first couple has made a practice of sharing such small, intimate moments on the grandest of stages, whether trading fist bumps, whispering "I love you" or stealing quick kisses on the campaign trail. The Obama's unabashed affection for each other suggests they could become one of the most engaging sets of lovebirds in White House history."
And I must agree It was a moment that I am sure will stick in the minds of Black America for years to come.
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My God! How beautiful was this moment that the first couple shared with the world! Never in my 23 years have I ever seen such an amplified example of what an affectionate couple should be. To know that our leader of our country loves his wife, shows me that he has compassion for others and I am happy to be an american because of the love of the Obamas! Not only that, I have never had a real example of an affectionate, black, married couple, and I am so happy that they are as loving as they are because their relationship is going to be under the microscope now with Barack being President. The media has nothing to say other than Michelle is Barack's perfect match! I love it!
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