Most Black people know the codeswitch is real. However, given historical, recent and continued events, my code switch is malfunctioning. Because I am often in white spaces, I am subjected to engaging in small talk and light banter not only in person but via email. But in this day and age, it’s as if Sweet Brown’s voice is constantly playing in my ear “Ain’t nobody got time for that.”

In recent years I have seen many videos or depictions of people’s first experience in a Black church. Now, usually it is a white person, like Gary Owen, sharing his experience of the Black church, but it is typically always in comparison to white church.

On Saturday evening, the eve of Mother’s Day, we were graced by neo-soul/R&B royalty. We witnessed a battle, rather a homage of epic proportions as we reminisced and grooved to the queens that are Jill Scott and Erykah Badu.

Let’s talk about weight. So, I am a solid size 16 on most days. I have vacillated between a size 14-18 since I was in the 8th grade. Needless to say, I’m a big girl – thick girl –plus size - full figured – queen sized - thickums. Since I was almost 10 pounds when I was born, let’s just say I have a lot of experience in this area. Basically, I ain’t new to this, I’m true to this.