Naturally Enlightened

I believe every experience in life is an opportunity to learn something valuable. When I made the decision and commitment to abandon relaxed hair and return to the version I was born with, I learned so much about who I was, who other people were and the world around me. While some days I wish I took the plunge sooner, I'm just happy I was brave enough to make the transition at all. Below are a few revelations and tips regarding my journey:

1. Getting rid of your relaxed tresses can rob you of all confidence, especially if you placed the majority of your self-worth in a box of lye. Be sure that you are ready.

2. Algebra class might have been a waste, but chemistry really did serve a purpose after all. Have you ever made a low porosity hair treatment with liquid amino acids, greek yogurt and sodium bicarbonate? Also, you probably know that even though grapeseed oil has a higher smoke point than coconut oil, it is still not an effective heat protectant. Science rules!

3. Your vocabulary will be broadened and your vast knowledge of the scientific terms for basic ingredients such as tea tree and rosemary essential oils will impress your family and friends.

4. The seriousness of your facial expression while reading ingredients on hair product bottles before you purchase them gives others the impression that you are a naturally conscious genius! Don't worry if you don't know what a certain word is, just place the bottle back as if it's bad for you and look it up in the car or at home. If everything is all good, go back and purchase it later. Those watching you will most likely be gone.  This works for food too.

5. You will question "black pride" because it seems that most compliments regarding your natural hair comes from those of other races and nationalities. No one else "gets it" so they are constantly trying to GIVE you some type of chemical treatment--relaxer, perm, laxperm, you name it. Family gatherings are the worst. If there's ever a time to be mentally strong, it's Thanksgiving.

6. Finally, you will learn that just like people, all hair grows at a different pace. You can't rush it, but if you nurture it, you will get beautiful results in time.

Cheers!