I like this. Very good "Sis! " You are so right; because of global displacement we never really know who we are kin to, or not. I must admit though that I had not thought of it in this sense. Like yourself I do it as a gesture of respect, to show a common bond. Sometimes I'm apprehensive because, also as you said, not all Black folks want to be addressed as such. I'm cool with it and will continue to do so. Thanks.