Status Updates From I Can't Date Jesus: Love, S...

While valuable in expanding my perspective, I’ve been doubting the quality of my pick—until the last two chapters. I was on track to finish today, but I need to sit with Michael’s wisdom on finding peace with his parents after a volatile childhood without seeing them change much. I’d also like to absorb his words on self-worth (pg 177).

I’d already invested in learning some weightier stories and issues during Black History month, but as I wandered the library back in February I felt I still needed to pick something from the African American section. This intersectional pick is what jumped out from the shelves—and I’m here for it!

Only a few pages in and already I feel so seen.

We explored early dating and expressions of sexuality and sexual activity, barbershop culture, internalized shame and maybe even homophobia. Along with intersections of race and religion throughout it all.

Michael picks through and recounts early childhood memories of his first experiences with engaging with identity, albeit without knowing it. He speaks to his (perhaps still) complicated relationship with and feelings on religion, his connection to the idea of Jesus, and adolescent struggles with trying to assimilate into the idea of straightness and dating girls.

was going to drop this because the audiobook expired for me on libby, but then i found it being sold in my library for 25 cents! how exciting!