“Iam not my hair, I am not this skin, I am not your expectations; no.” Those are just a few of the lyrics to an old song that was sung by India Arie. These words summed up how I felt when I decided to return back to my roots.
Ever since I was a little girl I have always had long, thick and straight hair. Of course my hair does not grow out of my head bone straight. In fact, it grows the exact opposite, but my mother made the decision to straighten my hair and keep it straightened because at the time it was easier to manage. For 20-plus years, straight hair was all that I ever knew, and just a few years ago I decided to change that. I decided to embrace the tightly curled hair that God blessed me with.
Since my transition back to natural hair has transpired, I have encountered lots of unwarranted negativity, but I’ve also received positive reinforcement. To me, it is all about comfort levels, and I have noticed that a lot of people are uncomfortable with the unfamiliar and more comfortable with conforming to society’s beauty standards and hair regulations. I am not saying that there is anything wrong with that; to each his own. However, I think that it should be equally acceptable for people to wear their hair in ways that do not measure up to society’s “norms” without being subjected to some form or fashion of ethnocentrism.
There has been a big stir in recent years concerning a “natural hair movement” or trend (like bell bottom jeans). I find it quite humorous and at the same time a tad bit absurd because I woke up like this and unlike corduroy jeans these kinky curls are “hair” to stay.
My decision to cultivate my hair in its natural state was simply about having a naturally healthy head of hair. And when I say natural hair, in a nutshell, I’m referring to hair that has no harsh chemicals or products applied and minimal heat, if any. Anything that can cause my hair to be altered and damaged, I steer clear of. I like big hair and I cannot lye, or dye.
There are many misconceptions and negative connotations about “natural hair.” Sometimes I think we should ask Jane Elliott to come out of retirement to do an exercise similar to her others, but this time revolving around hair. After all it is our “crown and glory,” and the Bible shows no partiality for straight, curly, kinky, or wavy textured hair.
In 2015, our differences should not separate us but should be celebrated. Several people have been treated unfairly on their jobs and in schools (not talking about Harding) because of their hair. It is sad that we can be quickly dismissed and labeled as unkempt and disruptive simply because our tresses defy gravity. I understand adhering to policies about professionalism, but what makes my ponytail less professional than the next? Is it because it is a bit fluffier and full of secrets?
Arie said it best, “it’s not what’s on your head, it’s what’s underneath” that counts and prayerfully in years to come the masses will agree. Life is too short to have boring hair, and I love my natural hair and the versatility that comes with it. God created us in His image so we should all believe that we are amazing just the way we are. So whether you have lots of curls for the girls, short hair don’t care, waves for days or long hair to whip back and forth, do what works best for you, and if someone stares at your hair just smile and wave.
