Thank you, Chadwick Boseman

When I was little I watched a bunch of Disney movies (and also Jurassic Park and Free Willy) haha. I didn't know as a kid how to identify with personality traits, I mostly went off looks and who I saw myself as based on similarities in appearance. For this reason, even though Cinderella did the most of what I enjoyed (cleaning and tidying up, regardless of the choice factor) I always said "I'm Snow White!" because she had black hair like me, and her skin color looked like mine! 

Young kids don't have the ability to think creatively in the sense of who is 'most like them' they almost always go off what they see. 

This is "who I was" in my mind because she was closest to what I saw myself as at that young age. 

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During 2018 for the first time ever a million kids and adults were ecstatic because Black Panther came out and it was the first time many little brown and black kids would see themselves in a superhero role, something that had never been done before. 

I remember the outpouring of love that I witnessed from all kinds of POC and black families as they dressed up and went "all out" for the premiere of this movie. Many other people who couldn't relate or understand truly didn't understand the impact of this movie and how much it meant and still means to a lot of us. And that's okay, you don't always have to understand, but just try to envision what I am explaining.

For years growing up so many kids never got to have what even I had where I saw myself in a princess in a movie. They just never did. Because, well, there was never anyone that resembled them, so it left them feeling without because you can't even miss what you don't know of. So they just watched and adapted to other people who were superheroes that did not resemble them or their family even the slightest. Until of course 2018 when that changed.

So, to hear the tragic news of this actor, Chadwick Boseman, passing was more devastating than just anyone in Hollywood passing. I sincerely believe it broke many people's hearts because this was the man who brought change through his incredible role. HE brought this superhero to life and he did a damn good job. 

To further learn he was SILENTLY battling cancer throughout many of his endeavors is a testament to his true character and strength. Many of us can't even go on without sharing we have the Flu, because it's natural to want to share your pain and be comforted. He was different. He was someone who didn't look for sympathy or pity. He showed up, he worked, he kicked ass at his work, and he went home to get his chemotherapy and treatment in between. I have so much respect for Chadwick Boseman. He's a true hero.

I am heartbroken for the reasons I've shared above, but then to learn he had a wife and a son. My heart keeps breaking. I pray they find peace in this awful time and can someday be whole again. There is always going to be a giant hole in their hearts, but I hope knowing how much He impacted so many of US brings them some kind of happiness or peace, too. He will never ever be forgotten.

The first time I was introduced to Boseman's acting was through the movie 42, which became one of my favorite movies. I watched it multiple times with my husband. When I thought back to that movie last night, I was reminded, it really wasn't just Boseman's roles- it is how he so effortlessly sold his roles through his craft. He was a true artist and he will be so greatly missed. I've been in tears on and off since last night. It seems the good ones just go too soon. He was not even 45 yet. 

It's also really touching seeing SO many celebrities pour out their love for Boseman on their social media accounts. It's obvious he was such a great peer, person, actor, and friend. All around a good guy. I hope he is able to rest in peace. 

Thank you, Chadwick Boseman, for giving so many of us hope and bringing this superhero into our lives. You will not be forgotten. You changed a lot of our lives in ways we can't fully thank you for. My kids will know you and your work. You will live on forever <3 

-s