THE 'AWAKENED' AFRICAN

Imagine...being born an African Princess, relinquished for adoption to Children's Home Society (of San Francisco), by an Italian-Croatian birth-mother, during a time in the United States when it was against 'somebody's' law for a European-descended woman to marry an African-descended man...and vice-versa. Ku Klux Klan lynchings were common in the Southern United States. At that time, my birth-mother, Mama Di, was a young teenager growing up in the Bay Area during the 1930's and '40's.On my 30th Birthday, while still working for Stevland Morris Music in Burbank, I was gifted the opportunity to meet the legendary Ms. Rosa Parks in person. This miraculous crossing of paths continues to be a paramount event in my life.It was truly my destiny that specific Sunday afternoon, to walk into Marla's Memory Lane Restaurant and see right in front of my eyes, Ms. Rosa sitting alone, patiently waiting for the multitude of conference attendees that would soon arrive to also meet her 'in person.' It was a special luncheon, sponsored by Oprah Winfrey's Los Angeles Women's Conference that year, which included honoring Ms. Rosa's historically significant life of multiple contributions to the United States and entire world.She was unassuming, sitting at her booth table alone, yet equally peaceful and confident. In light of the powerful impact for justice and authentic change Ms. Rosa freely gave to The Civil Rights Movement...initiated in the mid-1960's by young Martin Luther King, Jr., when she defiantly 'refused' to move to the back of the bus for a fellow mis-educated passenger that confronted her, she remains a powerful legend...even today.Meeting Ms. Rosa Parks on February 26, 1989, was a priceless birthday gift that I will always cherish.Marla Gibbs depicted the role of "Florence," George & Louise's maid on the hit television show, "The Jeffersons." Initially, it was to be a brief, 'walk-on' appearance. However, she was so accomplished in her comedic portrayal, that ultimately Ms. Marla played the role of "Flo" for 10 years from 1975-1985.When she purchased the restaurant, naming it 'Marla's Memory Lane,' her investment was a major financial boost to fellow Black business-owners in the historic Leimert Park District of Los Angeles.It was a good time for America to see us 'succeeding' on mainstream television. "The Jeffersons" was a show that celebrated 'abundance' in our communities nationwide, and abroad.Today, Ms. Rosa's 'Living Spirit' encourages me to tell this story, which was also divinely-designed to inspire others who have considered taking the challenging 'road less travelled'...and consciously choose to become courageous, and FOLLOW THEIR HEART. As world events corroborate for us everyday ...'The Scales Of Justice' continue to serve humanity in 2025, and beyond. These are the promises of God...AND, Ms. Rosa.When I watched Spike Lee's film, "Jungle Fever," I wondered what 'psychopathic mindset' led to the girl's Italian father and brother being so angry with her choice of a black boyfriend that, they tried to beat the LOVE out of her?Ironically, I was employed by Stevland Morris, aka 'Stevie Wonder,' during the making of this film. Spike Lee had successfully secured him to compose the music for "Jungle Fever."When the final chapter of the 'New Book' is written, authentic 'Fruits of The Spirit' shall be the eternal harvest of ALL who have purified their hearts and 'seen' with THIRD EYES, that: "THE TRUTH WILL SET YOU FREE."~Angela Ezenta-Eze Tate ('Ace')June 14, 2025