We often commiserate about raising children today and how wonderful it was “back then.” We like to remember what was good, and forget all the bad stuff. However, sometimes when we revisit the past reality seeps in to remind us maybe it wasn’t all that great.
The autobiographies of various individuals that lived through segregation shared some of the warm memories of their childhood. But story after story told of the many hardships they faced including the unjust laws that took their land; books that were banned; censored news and entertainment; school integration or the lack of it; the councils, commissions, and secret files used to keep the status quo; and the dangers for anyone who intentionally tried to cross the line of color.
These realities overshadowed and often overpowered the sentimental moments of their past. I read about their pride in the life they built and their desire to focus on the present. In Silent Ties, that is Addie. She and Henry stepped away from the unjust rules that governed their youth to build a future for themselves and their children. For a better understanding, please visit “Not Your Typical Book Club!” Take time to read, “Jim Crow After Silent Ties”. It highlights a wonderful book that forced me to step away from what Missy wanted, and focus on how Addie might feel.
Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” Santayana