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Conservatism, Reaction, and the Elder's Responsibility: A Message to My Age Grade

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Conservatism, Reaction, and the Elder's Responsibility: A Message to My Age Grade Great Day, Fam. This one right here? It’s not for everyone. If you’re not at or approaching Eldership—defined in our tribe as about 55 years old and up—you might not feel all of this. But if you’re curious, or if you’re one of those younger souls already walking with wisdom, you’re welcome to keep reading. This message is for the Elders. For those of us who should know better. And yes—I’m including myself. Let’s Start With the Mirror I’ve got to confess something. I’ve been guilty. Guilty of being reactionary. Guilty of falling into the trap of conservatism. Guilty of romanticizing the past. Guilty of looking at our young people and calling them “soft”—as if we were born warriors, as if we didn’t have to become who we are through fire, failure, and guidance. Many of us Elders are stuck in a loop. We remember only the highlights of our youth—the toughest times we survived, the boldest moments ...

From Victory to Momentum: My Next 21-Day Challenge

Peace, Tribe!

I just came out of a 21-day fast, and let me tell you—I’m on a high! My mind is clear, my body feels lighter, and my spirit is in alignment. I’m celebrating this victory because it’s a big deal. Discipline is no small feat, and when you walk through the fire and come out stronger, you need to recognize it. But here’s the thing—this high isn’t something I want to come down from.

So, I’m stepping right into my next 21-day challenge. Why? Because momentum is a gift, and when the energy is flowing, you don’t stop—you build. This next challenge is about keeping that clarity, pushing myself further, and re-dedicating to the principles that keep me grounded in the Gye-Nyame Journey.

This ain’t just about me, though. I’m sharing this because I want you to walk with me. Let’s grow together. Let’s elevate. Let me break it down for you.


21 Days of Re-Commitment

These next 21 days are about getting back to the practices that define who we are as a tribe. Gye-Nyame isn’t just something we talk about—it’s something we live. Here’s my focus:

  1. Daily Pledge and Salutations
    Every day, I’m committing to saying the pledge and doing the Gye-Nyame salutations. This is how I ground myself—honoring our ancestors, connecting with the energy around me, and aligning my body and spirit.

    My goal this time? Seven salutations in one session. That’s one for each of the Nguzo Saba principles. It’s a stretch for me right now, but growth demands effort, doesn’t it?

  2. The Axe’ Breath
    The Axe’ Breath is how I stay centered. Breathing is life, and when I focus on it, I connect with the power of the moment. With each breath, I draw strength from the ancestors and give thanks for the path I’m walking.

  3. Walking with the 37 Questions
    This is where it gets real. During these 21 days, I’m focusing on the 37 foundational questions of Gye-Nyame. These aren’t just words to memorize; they’re tools to challenge how we think and how we live.

  4. Keeping My Day of Power Sacred
    As part of this challenge, I’m recommitting to keeping my Day of Power sacred. This is the day I honor my connection to the Creator, the ancestors, and myself. It’s my time to reflect, recharge, and realign. Protecting this sacred time is essential to staying grounded in the journey and maintaining balance in the midst of life’s demands.


What is a Warrior?

Let’s talk about the first question: What is a warrior?

By definition, a warrior is “one who is experienced or involved in conflict.” Sounds simple enough, right? But you know me—I’m not stopping at the surface.

Conflict isn’t just about fighting someone else. It’s about wrestling with yourself. It’s about facing your fears, your weaknesses, and the obstacles in your path.

So, here’s the real question: How do you respond to conflict?

  • Do you run?
    When things get tough, do you shrink back and avoid the fight?

  • Do you freeze?
    Do you let the weight of the challenge keep you stuck in place?

  • Or do you stand?
    Being a warrior isn’t about winning every battle—it’s about showing up. It’s about being honest with yourself, recognizing where you fall short, and committing to growth.

We’re all warriors in some way, but it’s not enough to just hold the title. The real question is: What kind of warrior are you? That’s the kind of reflection these questions demand.

And here’s the beauty of it—the questions are alive. They grow with us. They evolve as we do. So, don’t just answer them—live them. Wrestle with them. Let them challenge you. That’s how we grow.


Nourishing the Body: Back to the African Heritage Diet

Now let’s talk about food because this journey isn’t just spiritual—it’s physical too. Coming off this fast, I’m reintroducing solid foods, but I’m keeping it intentional. The goal is to honor my body while staying connected to our roots.

Here’s what I’m focusing on:

  • Thiéré
    This is a grain from Senegal. It’s similar to couscous but way more nutritious. Thiéré reminds me that our ancestors were feeding their minds and bodies with wisdom long before modern diets came along.

  • Baobab Fruit
    This fruit comes from the "Tree of Life," and it’s packed with antioxidants, fiber, and Vitamin C. Adding this to my diet isn’t just about health—it’s about reconnecting with traditions that nourish us on every level.

I’m also sticking to soups, juices, and whole foods—keeping it light, keeping it clean, and keeping the energy high.


Why This Challenge Matters

The clarity I’m feeling right now? The energy? The alignment? I want that for all of us. But here’s the truth: it doesn’t just happen. It takes work, discipline, and commitment. That’s what these 21 days are about.

This isn’t just my journey—it’s ours. Gye-Nyame isn’t a solo act. It’s a tribe. When one of us rises, we all rise. When one of us struggles, we lift each other up. That’s why I’m sharing this challenge with you.


A Call to the Tribe

So, here’s my question for you: Are you ready to walk with me?

Whether you’re coming off the last challenge or starting fresh, now is the time. Let’s re-commit to the practices. Let’s wrestle with the questions. Let’s push ourselves to grow stronger in body, sharper in mind, and clearer in spirit.

Victory isn’t the end of the journey—it’s the beginning of the next climb. Let’s build on this high and keep rising.

Axe’,
Brother Ha2tim

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