By ReShonda Tate
If you grew up anywhere near a Black woman over 50, chances are you’ve already been baptized in the gospel of Black mama wisdom.
These aren’t just sayings. These are soul-anchoring, truth-telling, neck-rolling sermons wrapped in love, seasoning and shade. Black mamas, especially grandmas and aunties seasoned by life, never hesitate to say what needs to be said—and they usually say it before the drama even unfolds.
They don’t need a pulpit. Just a front porch, a church fan and a glass of sweet tea.
So in honor of the wise women who raised us, checked us, fed us and kept us out of trouble (or got us out of it), here are 10 Black Mama sayings that might not be in the Bible—but they should be.
1. “Every goodbye ain’t gone.”
Just because someone walked out doesn’t mean they’re really out of your life—or your business. This is Mama’s way of saying: Watch your back and trust your gut.
2. “God don’t like ugly—and He ain’t too fond of cute, either.”
Translation: Don’t think being pretty excuses bad behavior. Mama said be kind, be fair and act like you got some sense. Beauty fades, but shady behavior leaves a stain.
3. “A hard head makes a soft behind.”
You knew better. You didn’t do better. Now you gotta deal with the consequences. Mama said it with love, but usually while holding a shoe or reaching for the switch.
4. “Don’t let your mouth write a check your behind can’t cash.”
This is a warning, not a suggestion. It’s for those moments when you start talking slick and forget that Mama will remind you of who you’re not.
5. “They’ll smile in your face and talk about you behind your back. Watch how folks move.”
Black mamas have PhDs in people-watching. They see fake before you even realize you’re being played. Listen when they say somebody “don’t sit right.”
6. “You can do bad all by yourself.”
Whether it’s a relationship, a friendship or a job, Mama is reminding you that misery does not require company. Know your worth—and stop trying to rescue what was never meant for you.
7. “What’s done in the dark will come to light.”
No tea, no shade—but all secrets have expiration dates. Mama never chased drama, but she always knew when it was about to show up.
8. “If they wanted to, they would.”
No need to overanalyze mixed signals. Mama said if someone truly values you, it’ll show in their actions, not their excuses.
9. “Even a broke clock is right twice a day.”
Just because someone got something right once doesn’t mean you can count on them. Mama’s version of “don’t get caught up in potential.”
10. “Keep living.”
This is the Black Mama mic drop. It’s what she says when you think you know everything. It’s gentle. It’s wise. And it comes with the quiet confidence of someone who’s already survived what you’re just now complaining about.
Black mamas are walking archives of wisdom. Their words stay with us—whether we’re in the boardroom, the beauty shop or the middle of a blessing we didn’t even see coming.
So the next time life gets messy, remember what Mama said. Her words may not be in the Bible, but they sure sound like gospel.
Do you have some Black mama wisdom not listed here? Head over to our Facebook page or Instagram and share!