Ta-Nehisi Coates was on DC radio today on The Journey w/ President Wayne Frederick Show

[FSP]

He's doing the new Black Panther comic. I might cop

 

[#1 pick]

I agree with this, but it still is very complicated, especially when you factor in race. For example, an above-average Black person will fair better than an average or below-average Black person; there is no disputing that. However, it is very much the case that above-average Black people still do not fair as well as average (even below-average to be real) White people because of reasons.

Once again, I agree with this, the first part at least. I'm of the opinion that policy is created for (and by) the wealthy elites, hence why they try to influence political actions with their money through lobbying efforts, campaign donations, etc. Do some policies work against Black folks? Absolutely and that is by design, which is something I think some folk don't want to believe. Still, most people, regardless of any policy, will be just plain average and that is ultimately a benefit for society in my view. Note, that average varies based on racial group.

This is too difficult of a question to answer. It's too much of an estimation.

On the phone so my grammar might not be dapper.

That's well understood but he did mention above average luck. A lot of times, we get below average or worse. I know Duke graduates and high level degree graduates working at Macy's. Then there are those like me who move well with a mouthpiece who have above average luck and make moves. It is key to say everyone needs the right opportunity but the situation is everything as well. How I was raised and how I networked played a huge role into my life as well as many others I personally know.

2nd paragraph was brilliant. I wholeheartedly agree. Majority of people simply lack the drive and this country does a good job with making average decisions look good. Partying non stop, drinking and a lot of fun. Sure, if you are exceptionally good at what you do, you can do this and succeed but most people are not exceptional or very good at what they do. Add to the fact that you have to be willing to step outside of your comfort zone is one of the most critical needs to must learn to become a true success. This is constantly mentioned in books like "The Wealth Choice" and the "the 10x Rule".

The last quote, I feel like it's the easiest to answer. I am simply asking how do you feel you personally are effected by this priadiagm as a Black person. This one is about yourself. The reason I ask is so others can see who aren't in your shoes. No one can tell your personal strife better than yourself.

 

[#1 pick]

If I'm understanding correctly, you're saying that, as a black person,you have to be "extraordinary" in order to be successful? If so, then I have to disagree.

No, that's not what I am saying. The point of the message is:

A. What is the New Black Conundrum and how do you see it, how does it the general Black populous?
B. How does it effect you and how has it affected you in your professional life?
C. How has it changed the way to move as you gain more experience?

 

[#1 pick]

I can't listen until later. Just going off the OP I think it would depend on your field/ what you are trying to do. I also believe these days it has less to do with talent vs. connections and how much you are willing to hustle. Plenty of average people who are where they are because of connection. Race is a factor, but depending on what you are trying to do it's not always the case. Economic status is also a factor but it could be a number of things.

There are plenty of people who are smart and talented that never succeed. That could be because they aren't putting in the work they could be. I listened to this podcast the other day, The Beautiful Struggle #6. It made me realize what I already knew. I wasn't truly doing everything I could to get where I want.

A lot of the time that is the issue you either aren't really doing eveything or you just aren't trying/interested in using you natural gifts. You can have above average ability in one area and never pursue it for various reasons.

Very interesting post. In order to truly answer some of the questions, listening to his interview would be ideal but I have to say your post was spot on in regards finding what suits you and your will to overcome in some cases.

 

[Raava]

Very interesting post. In order to truly answer some of the questions, listening to his interview would be ideal but I have to say your post was spot on in regards finding what suits you and your will to overcome in some cases.

I listened, good listen. I agree the average black person will never be where the average white person is. For example, black people and kids make up dances, hash tags, memes and you know, we are just entertainment. White person does same dances makes thousands of dollars. Damn Daniel got a life time supply of shoes and modeling contracts. White privilege is real.

But, it's more complicated than that. I race will always be a factor, but it is not always the factor. Then you have the other side of the coin where what happens when you don't acknowlege it?

One of the things that is hurting us is people thinking they don’t have to grind anymore. Like he said they think its post racial and we aren’t there yet so even more of us are falling behind. Where if we still had that be above average, be better mentality we would be excelling. People thinking they can do what Brad does and get brads results. A lot of us have lost our grind.

So I guess I'm trying to say as a black person, we have to acknowlege that but it what's next ? What else? You have to acknowlege and also look at yourself.