Not Color Blind - But Color Aware

In the numerous education courses, articles and studies that we've read about multi-racial adoptions, we've found that you are NOT to be color blind - but color aware.  And, as I have entered this world of a multi-racial adoption, I am more aware of color than I have ever been.  I look at my neighborhood...I look at my church...I look at my closet circle of friends...I look within my family...I look at our elementary school...I look at the grocery store.  Yes, there is some color, but for the majority - let's just say that it is a sea of white faces. 
 
Now, being a Christian, I know the most important thing that I could ever teach my children - all of them - is that they are precious children of God.  God made them each unique and special and in HIS own image.  While I know nothing is more important than that, I also must be color aware.  I must know that when we go somewhere my son maybe one of the few, if not the only, black boy.  Is this an issue?  No! No! No!  But I know that there are certain things that we must do as parents to help him build a strong sense of self.  One of the simplier things is that he see people that look like him in books.  Now, if you are white, then this is not something you've ever thought about or at least I haven't.  But, if you are black, then you might have to search a little bit harder.

So, his 1st CHRISTmas presents arrived today.

I can't wait to have these waiting for him on his bookshelves.

BB pretending to read to little brother.