For a couple of months I have found myself walking with my head down. I lost some self-esteem trying to redefine myself. It has been difficult to walk with courage lately even when everything in my life is going fine. I knew I was walking with my head down but I never knew someone else would notice.

So, one day I am walking down the street (with my head down) and a young man with his pants down to his feet yells, “Pick yo’ head up, shawty.” I look up in surprise and roll my eyes. Yes, I was walking with my head down but was my energy out of order for him to notice I had lost some pieces of my confidence?

The young man ran across the street and started to tell me why it’s not cute for me to walk with my head. He had to be around 25 to 30 years-old giving me a speech my father probably should have given me years ago. His street appeal let me know he was serious about his speech and that I was wrong for being an attractive woman walking without faith in myself. “Shawty, you got to walk with your head high, babe. You too fine to be walking like you are.”

After my last relationship, I did lose confidence in myself because I felt no man wanted me. I had a lot going for myself and I could not sustain a functional relationship with a man. To walk with my head down was me acknowledging to men that they could never be interested in me. Yes…this sounds a little depressing, but walking with my head down brought me security.

Now, back to the point at hand. This young man gave me back my spirit in our five minute conversation. His peep talk and East Atlanta slang made me feel confident and put a smile on my face. All I could do was smile after this once in a lifetime run in. Now, today this young man’s words ring in my ear every time I want to sulk in my pain. Instead I laugh and raise my head and walk with pride.

Remember ladies, the streets are always watching…are you prepared for its lesson?

Adia