Everyone in the street where I grew up was given the same message: You can be anything; you can do anything. That wasn't extraordinary; that was ordinary for us. My folks didn't believe in black exceptionalism. There's nothing exceptional about 'You can have that, too' - except when it comes to justice. You can't have that.
Interpretation
The quote reflects on the belief in limitless potential, contrasted with the systemic barriers to justice.
Yance Ford emphasizes the importance of a supportive environment where individuals are encouraged to strive for their dreams, highlighting that this was a normal experience in his upbringing. However, he poignantly draws attention to the inequalities present in society, specifically regarding justice, suggesting that while everyone is told they can achieve greatness, the reality is that systemic issues prevent equitable access to opportunities.
In practice
During a graduation speech to inspire students about overcoming obstacles.
I hope that audiences understand that there is a precariousness to black lives in this country that we need to address, that there has always been a precariousness to black lives in this country that we need to address. In fact, our country is built on the precariousness of black lives, the disposability of black lives.
It is not scientific doubt, not atheism, not pantheism, not agnosticism, that in our day and in this land is likely to quench the light of the gospel. It is a proud, sensuous, selfish, luxurious, church-going, hollow-hearted prosperity.
I don't think one can write from a compromised moral position.
A law is something which must have a moral basis, so that there is an inner compelling force for every citizen to obey.
It is not that we keep His commandments first and that then He loves but that He loves us and then we keep His commandments. This is that grace which is revealed to the humble but hidden from the proud.
Life is a corrupting process from the time a child learns to play his mother off against his father in the politics of when to go to bed; he who fears corruption fears life.
Visit your soul; don't visit your past.
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