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Nothing Like It: The Impact Of Black Love

by Chontae Cuellar

January 31, 2022 545 views
 
Nothing Like It: The Impact of Black Love
 
Many of us have seen television shows and movies — no matter the era — that are relatable. There is no translation needed. As soon as a character’s voice is heard, a gesture is made, or a gaze is prompted, there is a mutual understanding that only “our folks” can comprehend.  
 
When I think of this feeling, the movie “Jerry Maguire” comes to mind. 
 
Many reference the movie’s famous line, “show me the money,” coined by one of the main characters, Rod Tidwell, played by Cuba Gooding Jr.  
Tidwell’s cockiness and boisterous conduct was like sandpaper to many agents. Therefore, his chances of being recruited were slim to none. Then he met Jerry Maguire, played by Tom Cruise, and it shifted.  
 
The first time Tidwell’s wife Marcee, portrayed by Regina King, expressed the power of Black love, it was P-R-I-C-E-L-E-S-S! She was not pleased with the amount of money a team offered her husband to play for one year, and everyone in their presence knew it. During the process of “letting it be known” they were dissatisfied, she exuded, expressed, and reassured her husband that he was worth much more than what was offered. She completely engaged him through eye contact and cupping his face with her hands. Her actions were not in a sexual manner, but in an “I gotchu. We can do better. Show them your worth” kind of way! When he reciprocated, it was as if a light switch had gone off inside of him. The end result was no deal. They were attuned and firm in their stance.  
 
The exchange astounded Jerry Maguire so much later in the film he asked Tidwell, “How do you get that? I wish I had that.” 
 
So do others, Jerry. 
 
What about the Obamas? Didn’t our former POTUS and FLOTUS serve the people?  
 
In addition to them being the first Black couple to serve our country in such a capacity, they also brought their flair, love, and compassion for people along with them. To have a grandparent living with them and care for their children while they traveled abroad was a sight to see. That is what we refer to as a “village.” Our lineage originates from a village culture. Deep love, inclusion, and empathy for others are part of our heritage! It also exemplifies the idea of Black love.  
 
In Essence Magazine’s October 2020 edition, readers shared what Black love meant to them. One couple said, “it’s covering each other; hearing and supporting their partner while understanding and making space for your partner to grow.” Another shared that it meant “to be unrestrained, unapologetic, and a powerful force of unity.” One reader shared that Black love is a “continuing legacy of our culture and lineage.”
 
Black love is many things. It is the undeniable passion, “the look” that makes everyone melt when they see it, or the touch that makes us feel like it is our first case of puppy love. It’s even the blatant and bold love the Obama family displays. One thing is for sure: our love cannot be duplicated. It’s sought after, it’s envied, and nothing can compare to it!   
 
It’s unique, not without challenges, but it’s our kind of love.  
 
Chontaé Cuellar
Freelance Writer
chontaespeaks.com
 
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Chontae Cuellar
From former nurse to author to educator, Chontae Cuellar is blazing her own trail! Our current state of affairs has warranted her to become a business owner. With a passion for words, she now assists others as a ghostwriter, editor, technical writer, writing coach and project manager through her company Bold Enough to Say LLC. chontaespeaks.com

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