Favorite Color: Black

For generations upon generations the color black has had a negative meaning amongst the major population in the western countries.  On the other hand, many other countries attach positive meanings upon the color.  When delving into the true meaning of black, many, if not more than positive aspects erupts into view, though some may say that there has to be a certain level of respect, balancing out the differences when compared to the vast array of colors.  This rule especially applies to the equilibrium of black and white, the good and evil, the yin and yang.  It is the color of sophistication.

Black is not a color, strictly speaking, but the absence of all color. When people speak of opposites, it is usually in terms of black and white.  Black, and its opposite white, represents polarities.  Black absorbs all aspects of light.  While white reveals, black conceals.  It has come to mean hidden, fearful or bad experience and is linked to the unknown or the unseen.  In times of fear and uncertainty black contains the energy of the threatening unknown.  In a positive state, black is seen as a restful emptiness into which anything may emerge and disappear once again. It is also mysterious, providing a sense of potential and possibility.

Black is both positive and negative.  In most Western countries black is the color of mourning.  Among young people, black is often seen as a color of rebellion.  Native Americans believe black was good because it was the color of soil, which gives life.  A black cat crossing your path is considered bad luck in many cultures, except for England, where spotting a black cat is considered good luck.  Recognition of certain achievements is given to students who are disciplined and skilled with the degree of a black belt in many martial arts, which is considered the highest level within each discipline.

Black clothing absorbs the sunlight much more than any other colors, but it makes us look physiologically slimmer.  Black ties and suits are worn for the look of sophistication and professionalism.  It is considered elegant, mysterious and sexy for women whom accessorizes in black fashion.  Many super heroes are cloaked in black like Batman, Zorro and The Men in Black.  Black is worn in the fashion of power through Judge's robes, limousines and priest's attire.  Black gemstones symbolize self control and resilience.  Black stones have protective energies in the sense that black is the absence of light, and therefore, can be used to create invisibility.

So, we can conclude that the meanings of black can differ significantly depending on the human perception.  For some, black can be an embodiment of everything dark in life like, death and agony, while for others, it can represent a new beginning. So, the meaning of this unique color depends on the sender, as well as the receiver.