Wendy Jane's Soul Shake

One year ago today, I put up my very first blog post, Be Mine, here on Wendy Jane’s Soul Shake.

144 blog posts later, I am still in love with, and still obsessed with news on black culture and matters of social justice, as they relate to race relations.  Whether it  was discovering a singer I hadn’t known before like Lee Fields, or learning How To Be Black while reading Baratunde Thurston’s popular hit book of the same name, or on a more serious note, trying to process the tragic death of Trayvon Martin, I am grateful for all I’ve gained along the way of what still feels like the beginning of my journey.

I’ve appreciated all the comments, honest feedback and support I’ve gotten from you my readers, and for all the wonderful news of all things black that you send my way.  I’ve grown from your knowledge and experience in matters of institutionalized racism, the history of racism and oppression, and from you challenging me when you feel I’ve got things wrong, or you don’t agree with my point-of-view.

I think I’ve become braver in sharing my thoughts, feelings and experiences that relate to race in pieces that have seemed to resonate with y’all, like the one where I catch myself racial profiling two young black men in a shoe store,  or the post where the tables are turned and I’m the thief in the black neighborhood.  I also loved being able to share the musings of my daughter Leni, who I often discuss matters of race with.  My greatest love, though, has been to connect with all of you, to listen to your opinions, and to hear how the stories have made you feel, or how they bring up certain memories and direct experiences of your own.

Going forward in 2013, I want to have more of those connections and conversations.  I would love to hear from you on what kinds of posts you’ve enjoyed most, and what topics you’d like to see more of.

And, so, as I sign off here on WJSS’s anniversary, which I am so glad falls on Valentines Day, I have a question for all of you.  Last year, I asked black people if they’d Be Mine.  This year I am counting on you, dear readers–whether you are black, white, hispanic, latino, asian, native american, straight, gay, and/or any combination thereof of the above, and/or any other ethnicity or nationality not mentioned, “Will you Be Mine for another year?  Can We Stay Together?

Thank you for giving me a most amazing first year here at Wendy Jane’s Soul Shake.  I wouldn’t be here if you weren’t reading.

Source:  www.youtube.com, Al Green-Let’s Stay Together, richradtylr2

When I heard the song, You’re The Kind Of Girl on the radio the other day, I wasn’t sure if the singer was from the 60’s or 70’s, or current.  And, then when I read up on the singer, Lee Fields, I found out that it’s both.

Lee’s first recording came out in 1969 and he’s been quite prolific over the last 43 years–recording albums, and touring with many great singers and groups like O.V. Wright,  Kool and the Gang, and Sammy Gordon and The Hiphuggers.  I wish I could say I was cool enough to have known forever who he was, but alas, I can’t.  I’m glad I finally stumbled upon him, and can continue to enjoy him through the new music he is continuing to produce.  Talk about soul!  Enjoy…..

SOURCE:

www.youtube.com

www.leefieldsandtheexpressions.com