Seek & Know: Your Story as a Way Station
Teachers of my life- the elders- grandparents, mother, aunts and uncles
“He who learns, teaches.”
~ Ethiopian Proverb
How does life speak to you? Tell you it’s time to move or pause?
Usually an event happens to alert us; there are signs that evoke an awareness and call to take action. These signs are spiritual messages. Maya Angelou is quoted as saying, “Spirit is an invisible force made visible in all life.” Clarity revealed.
Our ancestors relied on these spiritual signs as they walked through the bush of Africa, followed the drinking gourd of the Underground Railroad and marched the trails to freedom of the Civil Rights Movement. Having found purpose in Reconstruction, they trekked beyond their bondage and were led to way stations. There they had time to pause and gather energy, a way to return to their own strength. Passion for freedom continuously drove them forward. Migration up north in search of a promised land, ignited the prize of opportunity in their eyes. They steadfastly recognized these messages and felt the enormity of their power. Risks were taken. Weary, but confident, they forged on. So many stories, plenty of grit, goals achieved.
Do we have to reach that far back for these inspirational narratives? Today our current POTUS and FLOTUS possess significant melanin doses originating from the continent (they’re black y’all). Gabrielle Douglas, gymnast extraordinaire, got Olympic gold. Steve Harvey tells his listeners everyday that he “got a radio show.” John H. Johnson came from his rural upbringing in Arkansas to starting an awesome reading staple of the Black community, Ebony magazine. Venus and Serena dominate tennis from L.A. to London. Ursula Burns went from a NY housing project to heading Xerox.
Your mama, granddaddy, aunt, cousin, YOU did…
Everybody has a story of their past to present, with the mess and miracles in between.
From peanuts to politics, the power of strength, soul, and spirit have covered and propelled our community.
We know these stories, don’t we? Shared through media, family gatherings or books, these precious narratives are plain for us all to see. Can we be guided by this awesome energy of their potent accounts in our life and careers?
Are you attuned to the station to hear the message?
I view myself as someone who uses the wits and gifts God has given me, so I can be of service. The oldest child of a very determined single mother, I was raised in the home of my wise grandparents, and they all embedded in me the importance of a strong belief system. Watching them all persevere with hope for better times that would include more opportunities for our race is not something I will easily forget.
Excerpted from my book For People of Strength, Soul, and Spirit: Seven Guidelines for Life & Career Success On Amazon…. http://www.amazon.com/For-People-Strength-Soul-Spirit/dp/1479237019
