Tag

habesha

Aug 03
3

Eritrean Woman: Blood of My Blood.

By | Baby Jade, Blog, Infomation, Jade's Top Ten, Uncategorized | No Comments

Fact: By 1990, 40% of Eritrean freedom fighters were made up of women. Making the EPLF the highest percentile of women fighters than any other liberation army worldwide. Let that marinate for a second!!

Courtesy of www.pinterest.com

When I sit back and reflect on this, so many things become clearer in my mind. I’ve always admired the grace that Eritrean women embodied. Couple that with strength, resilience, and a loving heart that’s the cherry atop this sundae. My God, this woman sounds like some sort of medieval sorceress who spends her days strategizing world peace, while cooking monster meals for her little ones before sending them off to school, which she inevitably does on the back of a unicorn. In short, she doesn’t seem real. I mean, how do these women make it all seem so effortless?? Tell me your secrets. Tell me, I say!

The beauty of all this magic is that when you’re born into this reality one doesn’t have to look far. I’m fortunate enough to be talking about the many mothers, aunties, sisters, cousins, & friends I have in my abundantly blessed life.

I mean, is it a wonder that I’m a strong-willed feminist? It’s forged in my make. It runs through my veins. The perception that a woman can do anything and everything a man can. Think about it! Eritrean women have been fighting since 1810. They not only held house and home, they fought on the field alongside their countrymen. At a time in the world where women (although the backbone) were brushed to the side without thought, their opinions dissuaded, it’s knowing the stock one comes from that can shape who we are.

Eritrean-fighter-EPLF-woman.jpg

Courtesy of www.pinterest.com

Sorry mama. Sorry baba. I know of all the things that make the Eritrean woman, you wish I’d veer towards the domestic but that’s a no-go. Strap me up and send this jigna (warrior) to the battlefield (uh, hypothetical battlefield because you know…. I bruise easily 😔)

Jokes aside, I  want to take this moment to thank the thousands of women who’ve paved the way for me. You’ve taught me that my abilities in life can exceed all my expectations if I just do it!

A’day Eri, in all my endeavours I carry your spirit with me. Blood of my blood. 💚❤💛💙

*Thank you for continuously reading my blogs. For more content check out my YouTube page:https://www.youtube.com/c/bethlehemawate*

Let’s connect on social media, I’d love to hear from you:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/bethlehemawate
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Snapchat: betu_la

Xo, B

Apr 20
1

Ode to A Violin

By | Baby Jade, Blog, Uncategorized | No Comments

From 3rd to 12th grade, I had a hate/love relationship with my #violin. I felt like the biggest nerd, BUT made, and kept, the best friendship of my existence. Not to mention the phenomenal exposure to #music! It was in my sophomore year that I saw, and fell in love with, ‘The Red Violin’. I was CONVINCED that I owned the very violin from the film. (Clearly , no.) Nevertheless, my girl was donned ‘Red’ from that day forward. Recently reunited, it’s the memories that flood my mind that remind me just how much Orchestra taught me. Plus, it’s just the sexiest instrument. In the words of Borgie himself, “never be satisfied”. 🎻

p.s. should have kept at it, don’t quite play the same…

*Thank you for continuously reading my blogs. For more content check out my YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/c/bethlehemawate*

Let’s connect on social media, I’d love to hear from you:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/bethlehemawate
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Snapchat: betu_la

Xo, B

Jul 22
0

Cairo: City of Memories

By | Baby Jade, Blog, Uncategorized | 2 Comments

I consider myself traveled. Maybe not travel noire status, but I’ve been around. The greatest was during our trip back home to Eritrea, in ’92.

As humbling as  it was getting to know about my roots, and forming a lifeline to where I’m from, the best part of that summer was our stay in Egypt. My parents wanted to make the most of our vacation, and therefore, planned a few days stay in Cairo.

Egypt. Where do I even begin? The country is so unforgettable. I was there at age 7, and remember it as if it happened yesterday. The generosity of its people. The smell of spices wafting through the warm air. The INSANE traffic; signs were merely suggestions. The food, oh Jesus, the food. There’s nothing like fresh food bought from the local souk (market), so fresh and delicious.  Touring the ancient ruins of the Giza Necropolis on horseback. My father, who opted for a camel, rode next to me and thus, my fear of camels was born. A white keffiyeh, with a yellow threaded band, secured on my head, blocking the sun’s rays. Walking through the pyramids while hearing the stories of the slaves that built them (this, more than likely, is the cause of my fascination with cemeteries). My father almost falling into a pit because he was too busy recording everything on his massive camcorder (thank God for smartphones). Our ever-so-cute tour guide with the amazing accent & amethyst eyes (I’ve been impressionable from a very young age).

It’s been 23 summers since that trip, and years later, it has all stayed with me. On certain days, like today, I love mentally traveling back to that time, and reminiscing on one of the most historic moments of my life. When people talk of memories that last a lifetime, surely this is what they mean.

*Thank you for continuously reading my blogs. For more content check out my YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/c/bethlehemawate*

Let’s connect on social media, I’d love to hear from you:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/bethlehemawate
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Snapchat: betu_la

Xo, B

 

Mar 06
0

#DearMe: Bethlehem

By | Baby Jade, Blog, Uncategorized | No Comments

In honor of Woman’s Day, YouTube came up with a great idea. They asked female YouTubers to write a letter to their younger self. The YouTubers then created a video sharing their words of encouragement.

I thought, what a fantastic idea. Many of us say things like “I wish I knew this” or “If I could do it all over again I’d change this”. And while that isn’t possible, it’s still fun to look back at who we once were and how much we’ve changed.

I mean, what things would I share with Bethlehem 10 years ago? I decided to join this great campaign and make a video to my younger self. Not only giving advice but also expressing my gratitude at the choices made.

After hours of agonizing and picking the most important moments, I was finally able to come up with my video.

To view: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=haFcrYc2ucY
I encourage everyone to take a moment and join in the campaign. Even if you don’t film yourself, just have the conversation. You’d be surprised at the things you’ll unearth and discover.

*Thank you for continuously reading my blogs. For more content check out my YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/c/bethlehemawate*

Let’s connect on social media, I’d love to hear from you:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/bethlehemawate
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethlehemawate
Snapchat: betu_la

Xo, B

 

Feb 12
1

Copenhagen Film Left Me in Awe

By | Baby Jade, Blog, Uncategorized | No Comments

I’m a fan of the big blockbuster films, always have been (hello, Marvel everything) but my heart lies in independent film making. The indie film circuit is where I find all the films that touch me, make me think, and refuel my innate love for the film industry. It’s been a while since I’ve seen such a film………til now. Netflix, thy knoweth me oh so well. I was suggested the film “Copenhagen” and fell absolutely in love. Without giving away too much, the film is one of journey, growth, and a forbidden love. The tagline: “When the girl of your dreams is half your age, it’s time you grow up”. The film stars (all my Game of Thrones fans, stand up) Gethin Anthony & Frederikke Dahl Hansen. Their undeniable chemistry has you fighting for their forbidden love. Frederikke is a new favorite, she captivates and demands your attention in every scene.

This film came right in time for the Academy Awards. As we wrap up award season and all artists are reminded of why they entered the film industry, Copenhagen is an extra reminder of why we do what it is we do. I’ve come to realize that people in the arts aren’t supported as much, as say those wanting to be doctors, but that’s our fate.

Anette Messager said it best so I’ll leave you with it: “Being an artist means forever healing your own words and at the same time endlessly exposing them.”

*Thank you for continuously reading my blogs. For more content check out my YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/c/bethlehemawate*

Let’s connect on social media, I’d love to hear from you:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/bethlehemawate
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethlehemawate
Snapchat: betu_la

Xo, B

 

Sep 11
0

Namaste

By | Baby Jade, Blog, Uncategorized | No Comments

What I’m starting to realize about life is, we get from it that which we give.
In my line of work, I stay up late and wake up early (for the most part). When I do wake, the first thing I do is check my phone/email for assignments and deadlines. Many times, not eating or drinking anything til I’ve set my days’ itinerary. It’s a fast paced career.
And it’s becoming to wear on me. I’m sluggish, tired, ornery, and without peace. I see it in the way I lead my day-to-day life and it’s not one of happiness but rather duty.
Does it mean I hate my job? No. But it does mean I’m making it a possibility. Not really sure what the antidote for this particular problem is.
Or at least I thought I didn’t………..’til yesterday.
Yesterday I chose to start my day in peace. Before I looked at my phone, or checked my computer I took a moment for myself. I cleared my head and thought on what it was I wanted to accomplish for the day, and where it was I needed help. I simply prayed. (If you prefer meditate, that works as well,) It’s all a matter of taking time for yourself. To calm yourself before you start your day.
I coupled that with a warm cup of lemon water and off I went.
I gotta say, it was one of the most productive days I’ve had, in which, when I finished I wasn’t cranky or ready for a nap, but rather ready to do more in my day.
And so this is my tbt to better days.
We forget how important it is to start our day preparing ourself for the day.
My challenge to you. Namaste

*Thank you for continuously reading my blogs. For more content check out my YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/c/bethlehemawate*

Let’s connect on social media, I’d love to hear from you:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/bethlehemawate
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethlehemawate
Snapchat: betu_la

Xo, B

Aug 19
0

Eritrea: A culture not defined by its food, but certainly enhanced by it.

By | Baby Jade, Blog, Uncategorized | 2 Comments

Food is an essential part of any culture. I remember waking up some mornings, to the familiar aroma of foul mudammas being made. My mouth would water as I’d drag myself out of bed and scurry (as fast as possible while still half asleep, mind you) to the bathroom to brush my teeth and wash my face. As the water would clean away the previous night’s rest, I’d become more alive and my excitement for what laid in store for breakfast would heighten. I’d say a quick “morning” to the family and find my place at the table. I’d pour myself something to drink, and look at the spread presented before me. No matter what other dishes laid before me, my gaze always rested on the foul mudammas. The savory combinations of favabeans, peppers, tomatoes, onion (which I’d pay for later but didn’t care) a splash of lemon and oil, always gave me a sense of comfort.

That’s what I loved about growing up in a habesha household: sitting together and eating familiar foods that, not only brought us together, but also would place joy and comfort in our #hearts. That may seem outlandish to some but to those that can relate: *fist*

It’s because of these moments that I treated myself to a nostalgic lunch. Yum!! Eritrea: A culture not defined by its food, but certainly enhanced by it.

*Thank you for continuously reading my blogs. For more content check out my YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/c/bethlehemawate*

Let’s connect on social media, I’d love to hear from you:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/bethlehemawate
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethlehemawate
Snapchat: betu_la

Xo, B

Apr 23
0

Face of Two Nations

By | Baby Jade, Blog, Uncategorized | No Comments

When I turned on my computer to settle into work, the morning of April 21st, I was not expecting to see such a familiar face. Pictures of a man were plastered on every news website. He held the US flag over his back, had a halo made of golden leaves placed on his head and looked to be praising the heavens. Tears sprang to my eyes because I truly felt as though I knew this man, from nothing more than his face. Then I saw his name and everything made sense, the man was Eritrean and the photos taken were of him crossing the Boston Marathon line. His face was so familiar because he shares the same native homeland as that of my parents and the blood that runs through my veins. People belonging to the Habesha community have a very distinct look, which is why, when I saw Meb Keflezighi, I thought I was looking into the face of one of my uncles or a friend’s father. His face ever etched with features I grew up around.
Apparently I wasn’t the only one filled with pride. My Facebook and Twitter timeline’s were filled with congrats for Meb on his victory! I wasn’t shocked, Eritrean’s rush to the aid of others in help as well as to celebrate in any victory. In our minds we are all one. But as I looked at my timeline the posts and tweets were only from my fellow Habesha friends. None of my Caucasian or Asian or even fellow African’s of other countries was showing praise, just the Eritreans. I followed suit, I gave a great shout out to Meb and to the winner of the ladies: Rita Jeptoo of Kenya. My victory was short lived. I had called Meb an Eritrean American and said that it was a great day to be East African and a friend of mine commented and said something so ignorant that I had no choice but to speak up. He generalized the win as a win for Africa and that “my boys” were known to be great runners. Um, I don’t represent the continent of Africa. When I pointed this out he remarked that I had mentioned Kenya as well. We went back and forth until finally he said I should be proud and that technically Meb was American so it was a victory for everyone. I scratched my head when I read that. When did I argue that he wasn’t? In fact I said Eritrean American; it was he that decided to make it about Africa in general. My mind reeled as the events that took place kept replaying in my head. I started to really take a look at responses to posts and I realized that we have a tendency, in this country, to support or claim when it’s convenient. I was in no way, shape or form, taking away from the fact that Meb was an American citizen; I just asked that we acknowledge the fact that he is both American and Eritrean. He embraces both sides to him so why couldn’t we? Don’t belittle others victories. Embracing both sides of who a person is doesn’t take away but instead adds.
I’ll leave you with this last thought: would the nation be as quick to claim Meb (or someone like him) if he had done something negative or would we then begin to categorize them everything else but American? Puts a great deal into perspective.

*Thank you for continuously reading my blogs. For more content check out my YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/c/bethlehemawate*

Let’s connect on social media, I’d love to hear from you:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/bethlehemawate
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethlehemawate
Snapchat: betu_la

Xo, B