When you're decolonizing, it's so much hurt. When you open your mind to how often you say "you guys" instead of "you people", the negative stereotypes u used to hold & are trying to unlearn, your brain's muscle memory is being rewired IT HURTS. Looking in a mirror is an exercise.

It will be difficult sometimes to look in that mirror and see your "growth" when all you're experiencing within is "do better".

Don't stifle your self-image by taking all this pain all at once bc you'll probably be catching yourself/unlearning DAILY at first. Slow & steady wins.

It is not an aesthetic bc you are able TO EASILY TELL if someone is actually decolonizing, because in our process we must out ourselves.

Every time I catch myself saying "you guys" I say "I mean, you all" so quick Helps to remember people are on different timelines with it.

This is all to say please don't take on decolonization as your "aesthetic" if you don't know anything about it & aren't open yet to learning. It is not shameful to be "out" until you're ready.

If your commitment isn't there, it is so evident to others in your actions & words.