Dare To Be Powerful
By Keith Boykin
Wednesday, November 21 2007, 3:15PM
And now it's time to celebrate another Thanksgiving. Traditionally this is the time when we express our gratitude for our blessings. With all the problems we face in our lives and in the world, there is still much for us to be thankful. And in between the turkey dinners, Christmas shopping and holiday parties of the weeks to come, this is also the time when we begin to reflect on the year that was and prepare for the year to come.
I have a lot to be thankful for since last year, and I owe much of that to the principles of The Secret. Put simply, the Secret is about the law of attraction. If you focus on negative things, negative things will be attracted to your life. But if you focus on positive things, positive things will be attracted to your life. What you focus on will expand.
Thanksgiving has always been a time of reflection and change for me. Last year at this time I announced that I was moving away from direct activism to become more involved in media and politics. This year, as we celebrate Thanksgiving, I give thanks to everyone who has stood by me and this web site during this transition and over the years. But it is once again a time of change.
After careful consideration and thought, I have decided that this will be the last year of the web site. Although I am grateful for the opportunity the site has provided for me to comment on the major issues of the day, I have also realized that the challenge of maintaining a daily web site makes it that much more difficult to write books and stay involved in the political issues I care about.
The current plan is to close this site and create a new Internet presence over the next year. The new site will more than likely take a different name and will not require my daily contribution, but it will still allow me to comment on issues I care about from time to time. I expect the change to take place in the spring or summer of 2008, but definitely long before next year's presidential election.
In the meantime, I plan to spend my remaining time on the site focusing on the message of reclaiming our power. That doesn't mean every article on the site will be positive, but I will try to discuss those issues in the context of recognizing our power as a community and as individuals. Instead of feeling powerless about the problems we see in the world, we can do something about them.
I believe we have enormous untapped power within us. We have the power to change the world and change our lives. But first we have to believe in our power. We have to unlearn the lesson of fear and re-learn the lesson of love. We have to abandon the message of scarcity and embrace the message of abundance. We cannot be afraid of change; we have to be the change we want to see in the world.
There is plenty of negative news in the world, and it would be easy to focus only on those things for the next year. But I want to spend that time providing some balance. Instead of simply dwelling on the negative, I also want to focus on positive people who are doing positive things. I want to focus on solutions to the problems that face us. And I want to focus on courageous people who take risks for what they believe.
To tell you the truth, it is difficult to run a web site focused on race, politics and sexuality without encountering a lot of negative news. It seems every week there is a new hate crime, injustice or offensive remark to report. Focusing on that alone can lead us to believe that the world is only full of misery and disappointment.
But I believe there is also great good in the world. Every day, ordinary people act through gestures large and small to help one another, mentor the young, provide comfort to the elderly, donate to charity or volunteer in the community. If we look for good in the world, it is not hard to find it.
Audre Lorde once wrote, "When I dare to be powerful -- to use my strength in the service of my vision -- then it becomes less and less important whether I am afraid." I like that quote because she doesn't say you won't be afraid. Instead she says it becomes less important if you are afraid. There's nothing wrong with fear as long as you don't let it paralyze you from doing what you need to do to move your life forward.
And so from now until the day this site closes, I propose a challenge. I encourage you to find some way to do something each day that scares you but makes you a better person. I plan to take the challenge myself, and I hope you do as well. As Audre Lorde would say: Dare to be powerful.
Comments conceal
Liquid Fonts
November 21 2007, 3:09PM
Wow Keith this is a really huge decision you'd been considering for a while and I know it must take courage to do it so I support you 100% and I'm gonna take u up on the challenge...should be an interesting 40 days :)
Chris
November 21 2007, 3:44PM
Hello Keith - Very interesting post you have here today. Sad to hear that this will be the last year of the Web-site, but I understand that over time our personal priorities change as we grow.
I don't know if you realize how much of a positive impact you have already made in the world, as an openly gay, non-stereotypical, intelligent, activist (and handsome :) black man.
I am interested in the principles of 'The Secret'. The challenge for me is changing from focusing on the negative. Whereas I consider myself a positive person (always try to count my blessings, be grateful, and see things in their proper perspective), I have a tendency to worry about the negative things that happen in life... I suppose it's my defense mechanism in an effort to mentally prepare myself for the worst.
Did you ever have this problem? And if so, how did you "unlearn the lesson of fear?"
Shabaka
November 21 2007, 4:32PM
I whole-heartedly agree with Chris. Ever since reading "The Secret", I've been trying to apply some if not all of its principles, to my surprise, I've succeeded. Of course there are areas of my life and the lives of those around me that still need intense work. But having a positive outlook on life has taught me that nothing is impossible. So I look forward to accomplishing a lot more.
Now, Keith, I have to say that the site was recommended to me by a friend of mine who's an avid reader of your pieces. And I've absolutely enjoyed every single one of your posts. And I will be missing my daily check ins. You're probably too busy to read all of our comments but just know that we ALL support you and wish you the best in your new adventure.
I would also like to credit my coming out to your book "One more river to cross" as it single-handedly catapulted my coming out to my parents. So thanks!
Nathan James
November 21 2007, 5:47PM
Wow! I'm going to miss this site, which I enjoyed visiting every day. It was such a provocative, interesting forum, always well-written and exciting. I loved commenting on all the articles and reading the thoughts of all those who lent their words. Over the years, I had come to treasure this site and always thought my day wasn't complete unless I got my "fix" at keithboykin.com. It was a superb little blog, and it will be well remembered by me. I wish Keith every success in his future endeavors. One and all, everyone please accept my best wishes for a happy, healthy, and safe Thanksgiving.
Elder Kevin E. Taylor
November 21 2007, 7:47PM
Keith,
Blessings Abound for you. It's so wonderful to see you walk into this new season for yourself and your calling to the Universe. God has been speaking to and through the power of you and today, you answered! I know that your next level is going to be dazzling...BRACE YOURSELF!
This call to go higher, live better, expect more and ask for it through the power within has been the force and the faith of my 15 years in ministry and I know that you will find your way to greater heights as you pull down that power of positivity to yourself!
GOD WANTS TO BLESS YOU and it's on the way, now that you have dared to make room for it. MORE!
Thank you for your years of dedication to and through this site, your namesake. Now that you have solidified the power and presence of KEITH BOYKIN, you can harness it and bring to fruition ALL that you are destined to be!
I LOOK FORWARD TO YOU!
Ostend Street
November 21 2007, 7:53PM
Keith, your site will be truly missed. I know change is inevitable most of the time; however, thanks to you I have had my first opportunity to really make comments via the internet because of how much I have respected your site. You are already a very positive person and if you did not report on the negative, many of us would not move into action with the positive. Thank you my brother and good fortune with all your endeavors.
Doug Cooper-Spencer
November 21 2007, 8:24PM
Thanks for the years, Keith. I knew this announcement was coming because you have grown so much over the years. I'm glad to have been witness to that growth even before the site and look forward to much more.
Your 'sign-off' is very powerful and one I have related on my site. I agree with you. We have to reclaim our lives through postive thoughts and attitudes, recognize the negative, but not to dwell on them. Instead turn the negative into positive energy.
I'll see you around my friend, and I know there is much more to come from you. Anxious as always,
Doug
903boy![[TypeKey Profile Page]](http://www.keithboykin.com/blog2/nav-commenters.gif)
November 21 2007, 8:32PM
DAMN, DAMN, DAMN !!!!!!!!
brucito
November 21 2007, 9:57PM
I wonder why is it that outright trash such as nudeafrica.com, Tyler Perry's House of Pain, and Girlfriends (I won't even get started with those never ending Hip-hop music award shows) can gain a foothold in our community and just go on and on but something that gives a voice to the black gay community must vanish. Even though I personally felt it dwelt too much on race and not enough on businesses in the black gay community it is still black, gay and very intelligently written. I always looked at this as our version of EBONY and JET. Please reconsider. You will be greatly missed by me.
JSUgradnMiami
November 22 2007, 12:16AM
First and foremost, Happy Thanksgiving Keith and all of the bloggers. I would like to say that this site will truly be missed. I check this site day to day to stay informed on issues such as race, sexuality, politics and so on...The articles that you post on this site actually make me think and ask questions. I totally agree with "BRUCITO"...The site did actually seem like a Gay version of EBONY & JET. But, I understand that the Best is yet to come.... I wish you a continued success! I even caught a few of my straight co-workers which are women with your website on their favorites…Once again, you will be missed!
nhlanhla-S.A.
November 22 2007, 2:46AM
Good luck. You'll always be powerful. Whether you are an activist or a politician, a business man or a housewife. As to me: power is being in control of you. Not others, which is paranoia, and impossible.
David A. Tobin
November 22 2007, 5:26AM
I like the others wish you nothing but blessings on the next chapter in your life! Understand that we wil still be looking to you for your words and your faith in life, and love. Also understand that we will talk about you and rember "back in the day" when we use to all read keithboykin.com! You have already written a page in our history with this website. So don´t be upset if you hear your name on the lips of us talking about when you ripped the web with your words of insite or you hear a hip hop song with Keith Boykin used to talk about a time when we woke up!!!!!!!!!
Thank you for your years and I pray that you won´t have room to recive all the blessings coming to you.
David A Tobin
gb evans
November 22 2007, 8:19AM
'Answers Lie Dormant': and now the time of change as come or 'change is a comin'.
I respect your embrace for change: the selfish part of me screams 'no the site must go on'. But then you propose the challenge: dare to be powerful and whatever mix'd feeling I have or had quickly dissipates because I completely get 'the change' in attitude.
I too started my year demanding 'radical change - radical growth' and now as I view the new 2008: I find myself more resolve about my authentic purpose.
As a human being on this planet I must embrace the humanity of positive actions that will impact my world in a way that 'change' will be good for all.
I will miss 'keithboykin.com' but the legacy you [Mr. K. Boykin]have created and imprinted on our hearts globally resonates within all who have been touched by your awesome dedication, brillance & integrity as a 'humanitarian'.
Continue increasing the love. [ I will be anticipating the next move you make --its already a blessing.]
Karmatic
November 22 2007, 9:18AM
WHAT?! No more website? Where will I go?
And who else will put up with my evil ass? lol
Well I must say that I've never invisioned this website shutting it's doors, but all things in life must change I guess..
Keith for the past several years you've been an inspiration to myself and many others..While I may sometimes disagree with some of your politics, I can also recognize the monumental importance of your presence in media and literature..I wish you the very best in all things Great!! (with cha Cute self)
Luna
November 22 2007, 11:29AM
Wow. I will miss the site, Keith, but I do wish you the best in everything.
I'm not a homosexual, but I am black and I make it my duty to support and educate myself on the struggles and lives of my my people, whether they be gay, straight, republican, athiest, whatever! I really, really enjoy your articles and reading the comments of your readers.
No matter how much ignorance and crap you all may have to put with up, please keep your heads up, you guys! I'm rooting for you all!
One love.
Honeyp62002
November 22 2007, 12:43PM
Keith,
Thanks for creating such an informative and entertaining site. You are a true inspiration. Good luck on your next endeavor.
Billy
November 22 2007, 1:50PM
I like Doug sensed it coming every since that last announcement for "change" where you stated that you wouldn't be blogging as much because you were getting increasingly busy with speaking engagments and with My 2 Cents.
I am sad, but of course wish you nothing but the best. This was the cream of the crop in gay forums and in blogs in general. Look forward to the new "changes."
Dare
November 22 2007, 3:01PM
Im so sad but u will be missed
Aaric
November 22 2007, 6:01PM
Keith,
Thank you so much for you leadership and inspiration. For years I have been able to keep motivated and inspired to be active black gay male because of individuals like you. I am sadden by your decision because I will miss the wonderful learning about the great things you are doing. I do respect your decision because even more I truly respect you. I only hope other young black gay brothers like myself can continue to strive for success like you have.
thank you!
Etienne
November 22 2007, 7:13PM
Keith, your website helped me to dare be MYSELF. The journey is not over yet..
Kenneth, Thx for your articles..They picked me up on a couple tough mondays ;)
Love you all!
Etienne
Toronto.
loi wade
November 22 2007, 7:30PM
Keith! You can't leave your children! I needed therapy the last time you said this. You are one of the few people who has the nerve to tell it like it is and not kiss ass. What WILL we do now. Well I wish you the best baby. I am starting a new chapter in my life as well. I hope you and Nathan are having a great holiday. I am . My hips on the other hand...
Jacob
November 22 2007, 8:46PM
Keith,
Dedicating your life to making a difference is a wonderful experience but I know it comes with struggles. I applaud you for all you have done over the years to help others by keeping them informed. Your words and your intellect has inspired me over the last couple of years and I can't say thank you enough. Because of your words I am a little more loving and accepting of the person that I really am. It's rare that you admire people from afar then actually have the opportunity to meet them all to discover that they are the exact person that you expected them to be. Congratulations on your decision and know that you have a true supporter all the way.
Terry
Michael-Vincent Crea
November 22 2007, 11:22PM
Kudos Keith for Y[OUR] 'sight,'
Like Ben Franklin go fly Y[OUR] kite;
Discover Y[OUR] energy already there:
Heart, Mind, Body, Soul & OUR Care,
Whether YOU are here,
Or 'with' US, elsewhere!
"We hold the possible future in our hands but not by wish and will, only by thoughts, plan, knowledge and organization," according to W.E.B. DuBois. It's Y[OURS]!
People
So Seldom say
"I love you"
and then
It's either too late
Or love goes,
so when
I tell you
That I love you
It doesn't mean
That I know
You'll never go
Only that I wish
You didn't have to.
--Author Unknown
With peace, prayers & LOVE,
Steadfast in Spirit & in Truth,
Michael Vincent Crea, Pastor & Founder
One World Life Systems
owlsmvc@hotmail.com
Derrick from PHilly
November 23 2007, 8:50AM
Well, I sure had a good time, and I learned a lot too. God Bless you and Nathan. I hope the best for y'all.
Hell, I may never see MidwestGuy's 6'4" magnificents now. That's all right, I'll settle for Reggie Bush.
elg
November 23 2007, 12:31PM
I hope you become the first openly gay black media superstar. You deserve it, Mr. Smart and Handsome. Good luck to you and Nathan.
Adam
November 23 2007, 2:47PM
Thank you Keith for your generosity. Onward to bigger and better.
Andy
November 23 2007, 4:20PM
How sad you are shutting down, there are only a couple of decent black gay sites on the web as it is,and, now one less oh, well, I guess when you tire of a project, time to move on to bigger and better projects.
Your board will be missed.
Floridaboy8703
November 23 2007, 5:29PM
I look forward to visiting this site so much everyday. Its truly going to be sad to see it go. This is one of my main sources for Gay news and opinions that I value and appreciate. I wish you the best keith in all that you do. You are an inspiration to me!
Wish you the best!
James
November 24 2007, 8:21AM
Much luck and success to you Keith in whatever you choose to do. One of the things that keeps me coming to Keithboykin.com is that you ARE an extremely powerful man. Your personal words and especially those of Ms. Lorde is something that we all need to consider. We all need to dare to be powerful . .dare to love courageously . . dare to be wrong . . dare to be ourselves and dare to live to our full potential. Let's all run towards our Blessings and stop running away from them. God Bless!!!!!!!!!!!
Luther
November 24 2007, 10:14AM
Drats, I'm going to miss the board, but, we all have to move on to bigger and beter things. But, does anyone know of a simalar glbt style board? Most of the other ones are either angry, or too white gay focused, or some news with silly side bar things like "looks," gossip and such nonsense.
Ugh, this has to be one of the best black gay blogs out there, news, forums, book reviews, Mr Boykin had it all,and, I'm really going to miss Kenneth's insights :(.
Brent
November 25 2007, 1:45PM
Keith, I would like to wish you the best in your new endeavours and give thanks for the information and voice you provided for the black community. I also and striving to apply the principles of the Secret to my life.
Brent
Matt
November 26 2007, 4:35AM
Keith, you are a constant inspiration, and I have survived months abroad and in the states with my "Boykin fixes," like so many others who follow the site.
Your words, as always, are very well chosen. That particular quotation from Audre Lorde is very dear to me, and it actually goes out at the bottom of every email that I write ;-)
I am taking your challenge as well . . . and as one of my mentors, Yogi Bhajan says: "Offer all action, all thought to the Creative for 40 days, and see what happens!"
So, let's see what happens . . .
Matt
November 26 2007, 4:35AM
Keith, you are a constant inspiration, and I have survived months abroad and in the states with my "Boykin fixes," like so many others who follow the site.
Your words, as always, are very well chosen. That particular quotation from Audre Lorde is very dear to me, and it actually goes out at the bottom of every email that I write ;-)
I am taking your challenge as well . . . and as one of my mentors, Yogi Bhajan says: "Offer all action, all thought to the Creative for 40 days, and see what happens!"
So, let's see what happens . . .
lovejones
November 26 2007, 12:55PM
Keith, I must confess that I have mixed emotion about not having this site around. I know as we move on to the next level in our lives, there are some things we no longer have room to carry. I must also confess, that because of you I now know that it's okay being me. I no longer attend a church that preaches that I'm hated by God, I travel 5 hrs once a month to attend a life affirming ministry. I've now become a voice among my friends, encouraging, uplifting, and affirming that they are who and what God destined them to be. I'm now preparing to host what will be called "Sanctuary" a place of refuge)", for those who are lost, broken, and hurt. I'm now negotiating a building where I will be launching my new motivational class "Destiny Speaks" it will also serve as a place of refuge for all God's Children straight or gay, there it won't matter what others say! I've learned how to embrace and luv who God made me. Thank You Keith!
lovejones
November 26 2007, 1:36PM
Part two*** I also must thank you for helping me become more open and honest about who I am. You were the voice in the wilderness God used to get my attention, you've been my inspiration, thanks for corresponding with me, when you were in my city, I understand how busy you are, but yet you took time to talk with me, thanks. Your website has been sanctuary for me. This site will be missed by many, but forgotton by none. We luv ya and look forward to the greater you Keith! Be Blessed In Jesus Name!
James
November 26 2007, 6:27PM
Keith has done an amazing job supporting and encouraging many of us. It was through the National Black Gay Leadership Forum that I began the process of recognizing my own strength and started the process of coming out. Keith had laid quite a foundation. It's up to us (both as individuals and collectively) to work in whatever capacity we can to keep the momentum. Support a Pride Event (either with your talent and/or money), encourage one another with your words and actions. Love yourself for being whatever God has made you and consciously be an expression of that love. By the way, when I say "your" I'm including myself. Peace!!!!!
Terrence
November 26 2007, 7:45PM
Keith, coming to this website has lifted my spirits, stimulated my intellect, and caused me to think and act seriously towards injustice of ever form. I appreciate you for being so brave and giving a voice to those of us who have been oppressed for far too long. I accept your challenge, and I agree to move forward in fear realizing that cause or causes are much greater than my intimidation.
Justin
November 27 2007, 3:21PM
Keith, I hate for you too end this site so soon,but I respect your decision. I guess that all good things must come to an end. Good luck in the future plans.
Take care.
Justin.
Yoli
December 18 2007, 8:30PM
Visiting your website off and on over the past year has really helped me to see different viewpoints and accept things that I was not able to totally comprehend before. I have found new authors to read (Lee Hayes), new music (Nhojj--a must have!), new shows (Noah's Arc)...etc, that I never knew existed. People may be like, "my goodness--these things are hardly new"..but I lived in a close-minded straight black female's world. My only insight was always a good E. Lynn Harris book. I looked up your name when I saw your Beyond The Down Low book in the store. I'm not quite sure what this all means in my broader spectrum, but I definitely have started to change my views on some things. I look forward to reading new material coming out by you. As a teacher, this has been a great "learning experience."
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