It's Nice to Meet a Black Author
I was at a content creator event and found myself chatting with a fellow creator. I shared that I had seen some of their content and that it had resonated with me. They were such a professional at their craft that they asked which one. Once I shared, they thanked me and gave me the back story. It was so nice to hear.
She shared a story of grief and loss with me, which resonates deeply as an author on those very topics. At the end of the event,
she looked at me and said, "It's nice to meet a Black author."
Hearing that was surreal and profound.
I AM a Black Author
When people mirror back your purpose and vision it is one of the most rewarding feelings you can experience. And to understand why those words landed the way they did, you have to know a little about my story.
I have had the privilege of growing up in a middle-class family. I have been in schools, classrooms, departments, and conference rooms where I was the only person of color in the room. I always tried to use that platform in a positive way, understanding that I could be the only experience some individuals have ever had with a person of color. So to hear those words was like receiving a warm hug. A gentle nod. I see you.
It is Nice to be Seen
She also shared that she has had family members never attend any of her events. I shared that I have had close family members never once mention the fact that I am an author. We bonded over the fact that sometimes your biggest supporters are not your family.
In that moment it was nice to be validated. It was a conversation we both needed. One that served us both.
Sometimes you go to an event for one thing and walk away with something so much greater, a real human connection, a mirror, and a reminder that your people are out there finding you.
With love and resilience,
Shannon Nicole
Shannon Nicole is an author, speaker, and advocate. To read more of her work, visit her website or check out her books, 'The Long Goodbye' and 'Silent No More'.
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