"Your Dreams Are Valid"

You may now greet your new queen....

Okay, I had a totally different blog post planned for today but I am scrapping that to sing the praises of the radiant Lupita Nyong'o. To say that I am happy that she won is an understatement; I am beyond the moon elated for her. Ever since I witnessed her masterful performance as Patsey in 12 Years A Slave, I have been pulling for her and singing her praises.

I saw 12 Years when it first came out months ago but it never ceases to linger with me. The imagery of the beautiful stillness of the land contrasted against the unyielding cruelty of slavery as depicted in the film took me through highs and lows that are indescribable, right up until last 20 minutes of the film, where I sobbed openly and for days afterward. For the first time, I felt that I was able to grieve for my ancestors, for what they endured. It also instilled in me a sense of tremendous pride that I was descended from such a resilient people.

I was so taken with Lupita's performance that I frantically searched the internet for her, seeking some reassurance that she was okay after giving so much of herself. I can't imagine the emotional toll it must have taken, but as she as has often said, her discomfort was only temporary while the people she portrayed were left to endure the horrors of slavery.

So, when Lupita's name was called last night at the Oscars, I screamed at the top of my lungs (much to the astonishment to my neighbors, I'm sure) and then proceeded to cry again as she took the stage to accept the award that was so rightfully hers. To see her resplendent in beautiful finery and gorgeous brown skin makes me smile broadly for I know she is a beacon for chocolate girls everywhere. That she pursued her dream of becoming an actor despite the admonitions of others not to do so makes me believe that anything is possible.

Brava, querida Lupita. You make us all proud.