There are two images of the modern black woman, but there is only one unified soul of the black woman in general. Independence is one image that has tamed the black woman into a loyal civilian of American culture. Promiscuity is the other image that has claimed the remorse of the black woman who is unfamiliar with independence. The influences that power each are, of course, the male species' definition of the modern woman, whether black or white.

At the helm of the independent woman's destiny is the Anglo-Capitalist, and driving the promiscuous ones are the brothers who remain faithful to the black race. The true soul of the black woman lies neither in independence nor promiscuity, but simple consideration, desires of love, and a unity with nature.

No true black woman can hide very long behind the pseudo-mascara of independence. For, in time, one who recognizes the need for simple consideration will encounter the essence of her soul. Yes, she works because she has yet to find a man that can probe her heart in search of her desires. And she works to display her ability to think and reason successfully, as well as any man can, but soon finds that her accomplishments are threats to the well-being of any so-called reasonable man.

Occupying a small cognitive space in the wheels of modern day economics, this black woman adds accreditation to the African-American's worthwhile list. Institutionally bred and revered and maybe even admired, but only to a politically correct extent.

She is not at all ignorant; once she realizes that the recognition most adhered to for her springs mostly from the depths of her own heart. Her mind is capable of reasoning, discerning, and producing, but many are oblivious in perceiving what actually motivates a black woman's character. Expressions from a black woman are most passionate and persuasive in soul-stirring ways. Charm is not rationed from the motions of a black woman; it streams from it.

Furthermore, those who have risen above youthful pleasures easily obtain the image of the independent black woman, successful in education and career. Once success is established and the black woman hath proven herself and gathered the fruits of the American Dream, she lies upon her bed at night, after 12 hours of corporate toil, and sojourns to the refugee of her hearts desires.

Promiscuous sisters have a different paradigm of life. Under the influence of artistically inclined brothers, those who set the standard of the black race through song, theater, and sport, black women live to fulfill their stereotypes. Sex, passion, waywardness, and commandantcy are the enterprising factors in their lives. It is not about the American Dream or institutional honor, but it is about making a statement be it verbally, fashionably, or physically. Charm is the means of persuasion for these black women; intellect is expressed through mere opinion laced with radicalism. So where does the desires really lie?

Cornered in the depths of the heart of the promiscuous woman is also the need to be loved, considered, and to bond with nature. The vision of her idea man is clearer. He is real. He is faithful and kind, yet he is firm and confident. She does not see a sexist relationship with a man of realness. She is willing to be womanized because her soul was never stripped of her identity. Her great-great-grandmother has sown the residue of the field within her, and it directs her ways.

She could love a man faithfully and submissively so long as he remains real, or until she dies of satisfaction. On the other hand, society is teeming with women who choose not to love because of unfaithful or dogmatic men. Therefore, they are bitter and have no choice but to mask themselves as a product of societies subtle promiscuity.

Both images of the modern black woman are a great distance from the essence of her true person. A unity with nature is buried within the hearts and minds of each, unrecognizable to themselves. They search the world and heaven over intensely for an unknown desire. A desire not found in egotistical men, cooperate meetings, at church, the beauty salon, in other women, physical fulfillment, or even in their own children. No woman has yet to search all of the above areas of life but if in fact, one has, and no answers were found, the valleys of nature lie waiting to be explored. What can be found in nature that will fulfill a black woman's desire?

The valley of nature holds the identity of the woman. It is there one will find the true soul of the black woman. With eyes closed, walk through the valley to the tree bearing fruit in the shape of the love one seeks. To pick the fruit of the love one seeks, a woman must realize she is first, a woman. A woman who cares when ponders to herself. A woman who knows what really should be; One who fights tears when all is too much and when her reflection unveils a face unlike the face within. She knows, now, that to receive what she needs she must give in return, or be patient and not negotiate with bitterness or pain. She is all she has and what God made is her. It is her power, her being, her nature, and her soul.

God knows the woman that is a woman at heart. Ever open to her nature without question or doubt. The image upheld in the world is a defense against pain, betrayal, sexism, and shame. Nevertheless, a woman who owns the better part of her soul has a kingdom to come. As a wheel in society yet in touch with herself, a woman can pick the fruit of the love she seeks. With a nature all her own and with the love she seeks, she, and those nearby, will know the true soul of the black woman.

© 2003 by C R Hamilton