On one side of the seesaw is my education. My nursing certification. My twenty years of service at the hospital. My neat little home. My spotless RAV4. My National Honor Society-inductee son. All of these building blocks of my existence, and yet the only quality straddling the other side is so hulking and dense that it tips the balance every time: my brown skin.
The author reflects on the disparities in her life, presenting a contrast between her accomplishments and the heavy burden of racial prejudice. She lists her educational achievements, nursing certification, and family milestones, all representing her hard work and dedication. However, these positive attributes are overshadowed by the weight of her being a person of color, which constantly disrupts the equilibrium of her life experiences.
This stark juxtaposition highlights how systemic racism affects personal identity and societal perception. Despite her significant contributions and success, the mere fact of her brown skin becomes a formidable challenge, illustrating the pervasive influence of race in shaping one's reality. This thought-provoking statement prompts readers to consider the ongoing struggle against discrimination and the complexities of navigating life with a marginalized identity.
