Growing up, the phrase "Mnyama Tsu" which means "very dark or very black" had always been an obstacle in my developing self-esteem. It shaped me as much as it shamed me. Because words are powerful, I have stripped it of its intended meaning to rather be a positive affirmation. My skin is not a sin. My skin is not a sin. My skin is not a sin. This skin, this tone, this shade, is a blessing.