The FYI channel has recently premiered it’s latest series, #BlackLove, which follows five black women in the city as they try to find their happy endings love. We posted about the launch of this series and were hoping it would bring a refreshing perspective of the romantic and loving side of black women. My fear, was that this “reality-show” would be another platform to show black women at their worst.
I am happy to report that this is so not the case. I”m in love with this show after only 3 episodes and I will tell you why. So without further ado, here are the 5 reasons FYI’s #BlackLove Gives Me LIFE:
- The cast gives a true perception of black women– You’ve got Monet, who is newly divorced; Cynthia, who is separated and facing divorce; Jahmil, the youngest of the bunch that is finding herself in love and bi-sexual; Tennesha, learning to balance “independence” and control; and Laree, who is learning to let her walls down. It’s great to see images of yourself that is relatable and the diverse character and personality of the women breaks so many stereotypes.
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Monet gets emotional during session. The focus is on self evaluation.– I love how the facilitators in the workshop always turn the focus on the women. Because honest, self evaluation, is the only way to truly understand how to love and be loved. I really felt like this show got me when Monet is discussing the issue most black women face when it comes to showing their emotions in a relationship and the stigma of being seen as the “Angry Black Woman”. I think any black woman watching that scene could relate.
- The counselors are giving practical activities as steps to discovery.– You could actually follow these steps with the ladies and find your own love language and path to love. Most of the information that has been given in the series so far, I totally took those same steps during and after my separation and divorce. I feel this was a huge benefit to my emotional and romantic well-being, preparing me for my future.
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Reveals That Finding Love Isn’t So Hard.- In each of the episodes, the women are given an opportunity to see that finding love isn’t so hard. We actually make it more difficult than it has to be. How? Because we start searching without having a true understanding of our own wants and needs. Women make concessions for others. We have that innate desire to be a “help-meet” after all. However, although that characteristic is a blessing, it can also be a curse when we don’t value the gift. ‘Black Love’ showcases how a simple understanding of your strengths and weaknesses will empower you to make better decisions when it comes to the dating world. - Accountability is Key.– At the end of the day, this show puts accountability front and center. It forces the women to face their own actions, behaviors, and thinking. Which is the only way to grow and better your life. After all, you have no control over others. Only unto yourself. This is why I’m such an advocate of self-evaluation and life advice. Your power is within.
Tannesha struggles with relinquishing control. Take Tennesha for example. She’s finding difficulty in securing a long-lasting relationship and then realizes that her issue is her need to be in control. The bigger question she must now answer for herself to make a real significant change is, “Why do I need to be in control?”. I’m looking forward to seeing how she handles this revelation as her blooming relationship develops.
Check it out for yourself. I am in love with this show so far. It airs Tuesday nights at 10pm on FYI. Check your local listings for details or visit online: #BlackLove
