Unity

During the last two episodes we see everyone expanding their personal brand. Kandi decides to move forward with her adult pleasure line, NeNe explores the possibility of becoming a restaurateur, while Peter and Cynthia open Bar One and The Bailey Agency. In this economic environment where business closings are more prevalent than business openings, I applaud my friends for being so courageous in their endeavors. Statistics show the national unemployment rate is 8.6%, which is down from last December’s 9.4%. While that appears to show a move in the right direction, ten years ago in December 2001 it was merely 5.7%, which means in laymen’s terms that everyone who wished to work could find a job. In a time where jobs are scarce, we should be grateful that we are able to open new businesses and flourish in our current careers. 

In December, more than 90% of Americans will celebrate Christmas, Chanukah, or Kwanzaa. As a Christian, my family celebrates Christmas; however, we appreciate and respect all the winter holidays. After studying the most popular holidays of the winter, I noted that while they are all based on different principles, a common theme is clear: unity. Christmas celebrates the birth of Christ; Chanukah pays tribute to the dedication of the Jewish people who fervently believed in their right to religious freedom; and Kwanza, a traditionally African-American celebration, focuses on reconnecting African-Americans with their native African heritage. 

During Sunday’s episode, The Bailey Agency, much like the winter holidays, united us all. For the first time since Cynthia’s wedding, Kim and NeNe were in the same room without any conflict. While their friendship is still on the mend, we all came together to celebrate Cynthia’s leap into entrepreneurship. Many times during the holidays we tend to place our differences aside for the sake of others. In like fashion, I determined my friendship with Sheree is more valuable than our legal relationship. During this holiday season and in the New Year, I encourage you to put petty differences aside and focus on unity with friends and family. Everybody knows the best gifts are those that aren’t tangible but felt by the heart. Merry Christmas, Happy Chanukah, Happy Kwanza, and Happy New Year to all! May God’s richest blessings be yours.