Oh yes! I completely agree with you. I just gave an example of the stereotype that is spread throughout my community and the fact that it is associated with being "unfit". Gotta love growing up in predominately white, Canadian community and unfortunately the few black people here are either conditioned to have a similar viewpoint or are the embodiment of it and treated harshly as a result (likely due to our close proximity to American communities where this negative stereotype has some truth and is often linked to some actually seeking out this lifestyle which is a whole other conversation; no bullshit, that's from personal experience).

Few ever break away from these categories and they are often first-generations like myself. Since in my adulthood, I have come to learn that my outlook on life is pretty different, I was curious if this was another thing I missed along the way due to my upbringing. For example, I did get an education but not because I didn't want to be seen as this stereotype or I was trying to rise above some struggle. I did it because that's the norm in my family. You go to school. Get a professional degree. Get a proper job and start a family. Is this this the right or better path? Not necessarily. It is just what I was raised to know as the one I am to take. Of course I am not better and don't view myself as such. I am different (for where I am from) but I would never put myself above another person as a result and apologize if the lack of context, explanation or emotion in my posts have made it seem that way. The internet is such a tricky thing.

But I digress. I just came for a learning experience and you amongst others have given that which I truly appreciate.