Pecan Perception

This story is about a young black boy's perception of life in Memphis, Tennessee during the late forties and early fifties. Emphasis is on the absence of his father and mother and centers on his grandfather's control of him and the surplus of his grandmother's clout. He lives with his father's parents and presumes his parents have forsaken him. Old people influence his every move and he needs friends his age. Children his age do not like him because he acts like old people. Extreme experiences in the classroom, on the playground, on trips, in church and on visits to relatives whom he does not relate with have a vast effect on him. Most of his time is spent listening to, watching for, and waiting on things he is too young to hear or see. This allegory gives an account of men of African descent who are not Barack Obamas or Colin Powells. These two extraordinary Black men are inside mainstream America; ordinary black men should not be kept outside. This chronicle must be heard to help actualize our country's chance to bridge the racial watershed. Fears flourishing in white and black sub-societies of our nation that render black males invisible can be set to rest. An understanding of this youth's perceptions of race relations can help narrow the racial divide that plagues America. Troubled children and adults who had troubled childhoods can relate to this story and take solace in knowing they are not alone. Those more favored can be enlighten to develop an appreciation for the emotions and motivations of those frown upon. The reader will realize that against each and every stumbling block liberation of and inclusion of groups who have fallen between the cracks created by closed-mindedness is unshackling and supports solidarity for our society at large, also there is hope that a tiny timid young black boy will survive.