Harriet Tubman Madame C. J. Walker Muhammad Ali
The new year is upon us. For persons seeking recovery New Years is one of the days in which relapse is most common. In America, just about every holiday is celebrated with the use of alcohol and/or other drugs. In a previous post I suggested that African Americans in recovery or seeking recovery create their own drug free celebrations which could elevate self-esteem, increase cultural pride, teach history and help them stay sober during holidays. Below are some suggested celebrations on the birthday of prominent African Americans.
Madam C. J. Walker Day (December 23) - Madam C. J. Walker was the first American woman self-made millionaire, building a hair care products empire for African American Woman. Perhaps December 23rd is the day to begin plans for a business you've always wanted to start.
Muhammad Ali Day (January 8) - The greatest boxer of all time gave up his heavy weight title to stand for principles he believed in. Perhaps on this day you could stand up for an important principle or cause you believe in.
Dr Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (January 15) - On this day you could view tapes of Dr King’s speeches, Read his quotes or books to internalize his courage in the midst of adversity.
Harriet Tubman Day - As she was born into slavery there is no official day for her birth day. Pick a day! Celebrate her courage and the enormous love she had for enslaved Africans enabling her to make 19 trips from the south to the North freeing hundreds of Africans as a leader of the underground railroad.
New Years Day - How about a day of gratitude for another day or year of recovery surrounded by others in recovery!
Your Birth Day - Instead of sipping champagne, or smoking a blunt, how about throwing a party on your birthday for your parents for the gift of life!
Holidays which can be created are endless, including: Barack Obama Day; Michelle Obama Day; Paul Robeson Day; Ida B. Wells Day; Louis Armstrong Day; Ella Fitzgerald Day; Jackie Robinson Day, Whitney Young Day, etc., etc., etc.,
Happy New Year!