Despite all of the recent tragedies, I can’t help but think how beautiful it has been to witness the displays of Black Pride and Black Unity. Black people all over the World, standing in solidarity with one another.  Peacefully, but forcibly, protesting systematic racial inequality, bigotry, and police brutality.  All in the memory of our murdered brothers and sisters.  One of the most beautiful sights to behold are the multiple black couples in lockstep, marching side by side, arm and arm, hand in hand…fighting for justice as ONE.  This is the most powerful display of Black Love.  This shows that more than ever that Black men and Black Women need one another.

I’m not an expert in love or relationships, but I love Love.  Specifically, Black Love.  My story is very similar to the one that we heard from the founder of Smart Love Inc.  I’m a divorced father of one grown son.  I’ve been a serial dater and a serial monogamous.  I too am happily single.  I enjoy life to the fullest.  I love music, art, food and travel, and I love spending time with likeminded people.  But I also desire to be part of a beautiful Black symbiosis, filled with passion and laughter, and most importantly Love.

I’ve learned so many things through my dating life.  I accepted and relished my role as the provider and the protector.  A lot of times, we as men only focus on being just that. However, I’ve learned that women must protect us.  I don’t have to tell you about the strength and power of women, particularly Black Women.  I was raised by a strong Black woman and we have seen countless examples of that strength and power.  Women have a vision and an intuition that is there for our protection.  I’ve decided that I desire that in my relationship.  I need it for my survival.  I’ve made so many mistakes in my life because I didn’t have or I didn’t take heed to it.  I wasn’t open to receive that love.  I didn’t have that trust or the comfort to be open and vulnerable, which I’ve also learned is necessary for a successful relationship.

As I said, I’m no expert.  I just know what I want and need from a relationship. I know what love is for me.

I’m happy that there is a forum like Smart Love Inc, to have open discussions about love and relationships and how we have experienced both.  How we relate to both.  Understanding how we may see things differently, but ultimately want the same things.  It shows the importance of why men and woman should fight for one another, show appreciation to one another, and love one another.  It’s paramount in our struggle as a people.  It’s necessary and so urgent. Let’s get it together.

And with that being said, Let’s all proclaim……BLACKLOVEMATTERS!!

Daryle McGhee