Open Letter to Your Braider Who's Going Through Something

Hey Girly,

I hope this finds you well!

I’m just writing to check in.

Again, I wanted to let you know that I’m praying for you.

I know it’s a really tough time for you right now. Please, know that God is with you, and that you will get through this. I know there’s not much that can be said right now, in words, that can console or comfort you, and honestly, that’s valid. Maybe you don’t want comfort. Or consolation. Maybe you just want to grieve, and feel.

And girl, feel that shit! I’m all for it.

Just know, I’m here for you.

My hair is, too.

And, although I am and will remain a strong, healthy, and conditioned shoulder for you to lean on, it is looking very doubtful right now that she will.

I look like the picture the news posts of a Black woman when she goes missing.

Yesterday, I felt someone tap my leg.

Out of habit, I grabbed a bag of fruit snacks and bent down, assuming it was my son asking for some. However, when I bent down, I was surprised to see it was actually a clunk of my hair asking me for some Cantu.

I said baby, there’s only so much Cantu can do.

None of this is to pressure you, though, babes! Don’t be mistaken.

I’m just letting you know.

I’m only writing to check in.

To let you know that I extend a helping hand in these tumultuous times. That my door is open. My living room ready. TV turned on. Netflix queued up. Topics to keke over fresh, and waiting. Scalp, thirsty.

Whenever you’re ready, love, I’m here.

Oh! And while I have you, here’s a completely unrelated story.

Before I met you I had another braider.

And she was so fucking funny.

And talented.

She also had air conditioning.

And her boyfriend didn’t sleep on the couch, and cough only when he knew it would scare you the most.

She also never had to cancel an appointment because she forgot she had to go to court for a speeding ticket that day.

And sitting in her house for just an hour didn’t permanently permeate my clothes with the smell of weed.

And instead of a jailbroken firestick that only works sometimes, she actually had HBO Max.

I don’t know. That’s just something fun to think about. Just a fun, little story.

My hair ate. My parts were crispy.

15+ DMs when I posted.

I still have her number, y’know.

And she’s not too far away.

And, lately, whenever I go somewhere and see someone I’m attracted to, I have to just accept that I look like what I like.

And, honestly, I’m getting real tired of accepting that shit, Keiyana.

Lol.

Funny.

But, again, I’m just writing to check in on you. I hope hope hope you have a great support system around you right now, and please do keep in mind that you’re nearing the end of the average time it takes to grieve the death of an uncle.