For those who are grieving,

It is impossible to prepare for some of life’s painful moments. The unjust murders of Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and George Floyd is overwhelming news that we have received in such a short amount of time.

Personally, I am traumatized by the videos and photos circulating the media. My feelings are unexplainable, and I cannot fathom another sight of an unarmed Black person’s last moments on this earth being stolen by police officers.

The outpour of frustration, anger, and sadness from Black people, and people all over the world are all too familiar for me. I have typed and deleted several tweets and posts this week because I simply did not have the words to express how I felt.

I do not have a guide on how to handle your grief because most days I am still processing mine. However, when I feel every emotion at once, I can only look towards God because I know He hears me. As I struggle with the heaviness of our current social climate and the feeling of invisibility as a Black woman, I remember that God knows my name.

I am thankful that He already knows what’s on my heart before I even say it. We don’t have to have all of the words. God hears you and knows exactly what you need, and He will provide. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit (Psalms 34:18 NIV). It is okay to process these feelings slowly. There is no time limit on how long someone should grieve. Experience your feelings and know that God is with you in every moment.

I empathize with all of you who have been emotionally impacted by this devastating news. I pray that you find comfort in God’s word and understand that your worth is found in Christ. We are not defined by the negative narratives that society has constructed for our race. God is waking us up everyday, and so, we still have purpose. New mercies fill the day to perform the good works He has planned for each of us.

Black Artists.
Surgeons.
Writers.
Filmmakers.
Professors.
Nurses.
Lawyers.
Dancers.
Therapists.
Animators.
Food Critics.
And more.

I pray for those of you who are mourning and that your hearts and minds are filled with God’s love for you. Give all of your emotions, pains and frustrations to God, and He will take care of you. “Come to me, all who are tired from carrying heavy loads, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28 GW).

With Love,
Erikah.

To take action in demanding justice for George Floyd, click the following link: https://www.justiceforbigfloyd.com/