I like ideas #2 and 3. Both ideas pertain to issues that I have been consumed with as of recent, particularly the class question. I've been struggling to understand what "middle class" even means. What does it mean in the mainstream and what does it mean for black people? (Is there a difference?) Mostly I'm plagued with confusion on how I fit into it all. In terms of money, I'd say I'm lower-middle class, but I've received the education of an economically priveleged person mostly my whole life. And now that I am about to enter "the real world", in my heart I'm not sure how much I value those American Dream messages of economic aspiration that my education is supposed to enable. So, the only thing that will confirm I'm living a worth while life is my income? The weight of this problematic dream, I feel, is doubled when it comes to black people, because seeing our people suceed is so important--important to our psyche as a group and important because visible success serves as an inspiration to other African Americas. With all the reitierations of how poorly African Americans are still doing in our post-Civil Rights society (even though individuals like myself have absolutely benefitted from the fight), visible monetary gain feels like the only way to show that you're living a worth while and sucessful life. As someone who is pretty sure she doesn't want her life to be centered around chasing a dollar, the idea that I've been given all this opportunity only to shun "the Dream" of further economic gain is distressing.

And what does "middle class" mean beyond beyond the monetary aspect?

Okay, sorry to ramble, but definitely don't abandon ideas #2 and #3. I feel they are quiet pertinent to the younger generation.
R | 08.31.06 - 7:05 pm | #