Natural Spotlight: Ebony
Meet, Ebony, a Georgia natural who is loving herself and her hair...naturally. Here's her story:
1. Introduce yourself to us (are you: loc'ed, newly natural, natural-n-pressed, etc.)
My name is Ebony and I currently live in Norcross, GA. I've been natural going on seven years and this is my second time around.
2. Why did you decide to go natural?
I wanted to be as close to my organic self as possible. It was important that I strip myself of unnecessary and superficial layers during my spiritual transformation...inside and out. So, it was only natural that I let go of the relaxer. (Pun intended) ;-)
3. You've been natural for quite sometime now. Are you still surprised when people stop you on the street to question you about your hair?
At first I was a little surprised because I don't see natural hair the way a lot of people see it. To me it's like being black, short, or tall; it's the way I was born. Over time, I began to realize that it's more than that for some. It can be a very scary change.
4. How did people react to the changes you made to your hair? Were they supportive or against it?
For the most part, a majority have been very supportive...almost intrigued. The first time around (1999) only a couple of people thought I was out of my mind. This time, not many really said much because they knew that I was going to do what I wanted, especially when it meant doing what I thought was best for me. Honestly, the few that did have something to say were older. They grew up in what some people thought was the worst time to be black, and hated almost anything that reminded them of the struggle...including having "nappy" hair.
4. What's the one thing you've noticed about yourself since going natural?
I've noticed that a different type of freedom to be myself in totality has been unleashed...right to the core. Also, I'm more confident, humble, and grateful.
5. What's your hair regimen?
6. Natural hair has come quite a trend and women are being criticized for it. What advice do you have for women who are considering going natural but fear the negative feedback?
I'd ask them to make sure they really want to be natural..If so, why? As with everything, it should be for the right reasons. It's not a trend for everyone, but it's still a huge step no matter what. You have to be secure within yourself and make the right decisions for YOU! Find styles that suit YOU! You'll be much more in love with your hair that way...and it'll give people less to say (if you're worried about that). You're most beautiful when you're completely YOU! As cliche as it is: Do YOU!
7. The internet is full of natural hair resources. Which sites are your favorite to review?
There's lots of great information out there. A couple of sites I love are Naturally Curly, Curly Nikki, and Afrobella.
8. Is there a blog or website we can follow you at?
Sure! Just I started one...www.manelycurls.
1 comments:
Write commentsI'm surprised that question 4 was not answered this way: I feel healthier, my scalp doesn't burn, my lungs are free of toxins, and I'm on my way to avoiding cancer.
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