The one statement that ended it all
At the height of podcasts and YouTube life/relationship channels, Tony Gaskins hit my timeline. His down to earth, direct, yet respectful often humorous approach on namely love and relationships had me hooked from the beginning. A devoted follower of Christ, husband, and father his precipice was to “give women the game to even the relationship playing field”. His teachings came in handy as I was currently separated from my now ex husband.
Mr. Gaskins teachings made the dating scene easier to navigate, “man speak” or “manglish” became decipherable. For the first five years post divorce, remarrying or dating intently again was a possibility until….
The statement that ended it all
Watching his videos had tapered off over the last few years due to consuming other content more beneficial and in line with my goals like investing, saving, and learning new skills such as gardening. Furthering my knowledge pushed the desire for a relationship into the background. After a long hiatus, one day I clicked on a video. As a I can’t recall the exact topic of the video, life stopped when he made this statement: “My channel is for those desiring marriage.”
That was the lightbulb moment of knowing I did not desire marriage or wasn’t the least bit interested in any committed relationship.
Why should I continue watching a channel whose main focus didn’t align with my objectives? From that moment forward I ceased watching his videos.
Tony Gaskins changed my life for the good. The emotional and spiritual place I was in has been lifted to a higher existence. His teachings, stories, and way with words have helped me see myself thru clearer lenses. I’m all the better for his content.
This is not a sad story. On occasion I click on a video of his. But I believe this is what creating and consuming content is about. What is consumed should aid in growth, healing, understanding. Get the message, elevate, and move on. Besides, what are the odds of black women pairing with capable black men? The pool is small. The possibility is low. There’s not enough eligible men to go around, whilst some of this content is keeping women hopeful.
I don’t want to say I’ve completely outgrown his messages, but I’ve gotten the message and am better for it.
Thank you Mr. Gaskins.