Oppression

One of the most pervasive and tragic themes in mankind's story is the role of oppression. Throughout history, societies have wielded power to subjugate others, leading to a cycle of suffering, rebellion, and change. This dark thread runs through the annals of time, from the ancient empires that enslaved conquered peoples to the colonial powers of more recent centuries that exploited entire continents. Oppression has stifled voices, crushed dreams, and ignited the fires of resistance.

Yet, it is also through the struggle against oppression that humanity has often found its greatest strength and resilience. The abolition of slavery, the fight for civil rights, and the ongoing battles for equality and justice are testament to the indomitable spirit that refuses to be subdued. This duality of suffering and resistance has shaped civilizations, bringing both darkness and light to the tapestry of human history.

Then I thought, what if there had not been chattel slavery in the United States?

Would there have been a Benjaman Banneker, a Hariet Tubman, a Sojourner Truth, a Fredrick Douglas?

And then what of their descendants? Would there have been a Muhammad Ali, an Aretha Franklin, a Michael Jackson, or a James Brown? And what about Martin Luther King Jr., or Malcom X.? Maya Angelou, and so many other outstanding survivors of oppression?

No one can accurately say how much of a role oppression played in the lives of these people, but I doubt that many can deny that it did play a role.

The Bible verse Ecclesiastes 7:1 state, A good name is better than good oil, and the day of death is better than the day of birth. This verse suggests that the end of life can be more significant than the beginning.

Consider that the infant Jesus Christ had not accomplished anything at his birth other than his miraculous birth. However, at the time of his death he had healed, cured, fed and even resurrected more people than has ever been accurately counted. Also, at his death he had sparked a movement that has come to be known as Christianity that exists down to this day.

So, yes, his death has proven to be more monumental than his birth, as important as his birth proved to be.

I truly believe that man was created to be greater than his situation. History has proven time and again that men have always risen above their condition.

So, do not close the book on me as my pages are still being written and added.