Tag: self-reflection

Posted in A Professor's Thoughts..., Black Joy, Feature Spotlight

A Black Cardiologist and Her Love For Heart Health & Comics…

Posted on by drblackfuturefeminist

On last night I had an opportunity to attend the 24th Black History Month Lecture put on by VCU Libraries. Dr. Shirlene Obuobi, M.D., a Ghanaian-American physician (cardiologist) and cartoonist, served as this year’s speaker, delivering a lecture/talk on “Narratives & Identity: Comics As Tools for Advocacy and Self-Reflection.” Talk about being hyped!! As soon as I saw the announcement, back in January, I was already intrigued… comics …. medicine….Black woman cartoonist and writer…YOU GOT ME!!

Dr. Obuobi’s talk touched upon so many important issues and conversations. Many of these included being a Black woman physician, her experiences during pre and post medical school, patient-care, the big picture of traversing the medical field, battling insurance companies, universal healthcare, and the role of comics in telling these stories. I have always been of the mindset that comics are one of the greatest mediums for telling stories, giving voice to the voiceless, and highlighting global and national issues. And to see the way that Dr. Obuobi incorporates many of her own personal experiences within the medical field really shines a light that is often dim. In many ways through her comics we are getting a snapshot into her career.

Not only was I thoroughly impressed with her talk but to see how she has been able to weave her personal and professional through a variety of outlets, everything from her regular contributions on “Well + Being” (via The Washington Post), being featured in the Medical University of Vienna’s Art, Action, Attitude/Body exhibit, as well as numerous academic journal articles.

As a self-taught artist, Dr. Obuobi is exuding #BlackGirlMagic!! Check out some of the panels below:

When I say I was in a total #FanGirl moment watching this presentation/lecture, just pure amazement!! The little Black girl in me was jumping for joy!! Dr. Obuobi’s lecture was inspiring, entertaining, engaging, and super informative!!

#FanGirlMoment…Dr. Obuobi and myself holding her novel “On Rotation”!

In addition to her work as a cardiologist, Dr. Obuobi is a brilliant writer, her first book a romance novel titled “On Rotation” hit shelves June 2022. Her second novel, “Between Friends and Lovers” is set to premiere July 2024!

To find out more about Dr. Obuobi, check her out on the following social media outlets:

Posted in A Professor's Thoughts..., Holiday Celebration!!, Resources

Habari Gani?!! Kujichagulia-Kwanzaa Day 2

Posted on by drblackfuturefeminist

Habari Gani!! What’s the news today?!

We have come to another day of Kwanzaa…The second principle of the Nguzo Saba is Kujichagulia which means Self-Determination!! To define ourselves, name ourselves, create for ourselves and speak for ourselves.”

“In a time in which occupation and oppression of countries and peoples are immorally presented as necessary and even salvational, the principle of Kujichagulia (Self-Determination) rejects this and reaffirms the right of persons and peoples to determine their own destiny and daily lives; to live in peace and security; and to flourish in freedom everywhere.”-Dr. Maulana Karenga

Consider these three questions as you embody Kujichaguilia:

1.  Who am I?
2.  Am I really who I say I am?
3.  Am I all that I ought to be?

Have a conversation (with yourself, or with another person) about what truths you want to live into in this coming year. In addition, check out this video reflection from Dr. David Goode-Cross, as he shares the importance of making life decisions from a place of being grounded in our most authentic selves.

Once you begin to process and internalize the above questions/thoughts consider these few actions that you can do to celebrate Kujichaguilia:

  • Make the celebration focus on your family
  • Make the celebration festive and joyous
  • Try to have a special meal- at home or away

What I like about Kujichagulia is that it also has a personal meaning. As you reflect over this past year, can you identify ways that your self-determination paid off? How did you take more control over your life?

Remember to practice Self-Determination!!

Posted in A Professor's Thoughts..., Dr. G's Pop Culture Corner (PCC), On the Desk...

Dr. G’s Pop Culture Corner (PCC)

Posted on by drblackfuturefeminist

I just love when a new series effortlessly draws you so that you gotta come back for more! I know it’s early but I’m hooked! Check out below for more of my thoughts on The CW’s “Naomi”…

And don’t forget if you have something in mind that you would like for me to “share my 2 cents” make sure to sound off in the comments!!

Episode #2: “Unidentified Flying Object”* (directed by DeMane Davis)

*Friendly reminder the new episodes of “Naomi” debut Tuesdays at 9 pm/ET on The CW and if you miss it you can catch it the next day via The CW app.