I was lucky I had a mom who had seen it all. From seeing my grandfather march in the Civil Rights era, she understood the depth, character, and stability you need to go through racism. She taught me not to accept it to but deal with it and be better than it.
This quote highlights the importance of intergenerational resilience and the transmission of wisdom within families facing social injustices. The speaker reflects on a mother who possesses a profound understanding of racism, shaped by her own experiences and heritage, including witnessing the Civil Rights Movement through her father. It underscores how living through historical struggles can cultivate strength, patience, and moral integrity, empowering subsequent generations to confront prejudice with dignity and resolve. The mother’s advice to 'deal with it and be better than it' emphasizes a proactive approach—acknowledging the existence of systemic adversity but choosing a path of integrity and self-improvement rather than submission or despair. This mindset can serve as a powerful tool for marginalized communities, inspiring them to rise above oppression through resilience, education, and positive action. It also highlights the importance of role models and family heritage in shaping one's values and coping strategies. The message encourages individuals to internalize a sense of agency, viewing hardships as opportunities to demonstrate character and strength. Overall, the quote portrays an empowering narrative about overcoming racial discrimination by understanding its historical roots and forging a path of personal excellence rooted in love, knowledge, and resolve.