Karen Lightbourne

Someday My Barack Will Come Karen Lightbourne

Even with all I had, I didn't have what I really wanted: a husband. My life had some "haves," but it also had a big "have knot"-I had not yet tied the knot. I was single and saved, but I was definitely not satisfied with my current state. Even though I had the man upstairs, I didn't have my man in the pew next to me. I deeply desired both. Growing up as an African American child, I learned powerful lessons by different mediums. My family urged me to get an education and be independent. My family of faith often said, "Wait on the Lord" and "Jesus is all you need." Society also taught me that all the 'good men' were married or in jail. The combination of all three left me in trouble, or so I thought. Until Barack rode in... When I was covering the 2008 presidential election, I spoke with many African American leaders about the candidacy of Barack Obama. Certain words kept coming up in conversation. Those words included hope, change, belief and inspiration. Likewise, given our history and the times we live in, these same words can be used to describe what it takes for black women to marry. Running for President of the United States is an act of courage. The same is also true when it comes to keeping your heart open to love. No one needs a fairy tale when it comes to getting married. What you need is faith. Someday My Barack Will Come will help you on your way.