Dr. James Whitfield

family

Weekly With Whitfield – Unscripted

by 1 Comment

As the days of 2023 dwindle down, only 16 weeks remain in this calendar year. To those who have faithfully followed my weekly reflections, thank you for being a part of this introspective journey. For those joining for the first time, a warm welcome. Regardless of where you stand, know that your presence is valued, and I’m genuinely delighted that you’re here. My wish is that this year has unfolded just as you’d hoped it would.

The Weekly Reflection Challenge

Writing this weekly blog has brought with it a unique and beautiful challenge. I have always been a deeply reflective person. But I cannot think of a time in my life where I dedicated time at the end of each week to reflect on what that time had presented me. There have been many weeks where I’ve struggled to find a word that truly captured my thoughts and feelings. But, every time, God laid something on my heart to share.

This journey has been an unscripted one. But such is life. I have no earthly idea what I’m going to write about at the beginning of each week. I won’t lie, early on, I tried to force it. But it never fit. The things I felt I needed to talk about or wanted to talk about never seemed to be what I actually wrote about, in the end. And this has made the journey more genuine, authentic, and therapeutic for me.

Unscripted Lessons

Life’s unscripted moments often hold the most profound lessons. While plans have their place, they can sometimes pale in comparison to the grand design that the universe, or in my case, God, has in store for us. We may attempt to force our personal narratives into the script, but more often than not, they fail to fit. Life’s greatest surprises, blessings, and revelations emerge when we relinquish control and embrace the unscripted. 

Reflecting on these past weeks, I am reminded that the most impactful adventures often arise when we surrender the pen that drafts our life’s script. I’ve gazed up in awe at the grace, mercy, and provision that God has bestowed upon me.

An Unforeseen Journey

This past holiday weekend I had the opportunity to visit Seaside, Florida with my family and good friends. This trip was not something we planned, but a generous opportunity was extended by some good friends. Completely unforeseen, all of a sudden, we were loading up the Expedition, headed to the Florida panhandle. 

Though brief in duration, those three days were filled with unforgettable moments, too numerous to recount in this humble blog post. What we lacked in time, we made up for in moments.

Finding Joy Amidst the Challenges

The trip was an absolute blast, not because everything unfolded perfectly – quite the contrary. We encountered our fair share of unexpected challenges, from navigating a busted golf cart in the dark to a tangle with jellyfish, and even a near mishap with a stop sign. Yet, in these seemingly exasperating moments, we found joy in these “you’ve gotta be kidding me” moments that popped up. 

This trip served as a vivid reminder of the beauty inherent in an unscripted life. Had I known about the golf cart’s sudden breakdown on our way to dinner, I might have opted for the car and missed out on the deep belly laughs and crazy commentary that filled that peculiar ride. There’s so much more to share, but some experiences defy adequate description – you truly had to be there. What I can attest to is that, despite the chaos, it was so much fun!

Navigating the Unchartered Waters of Life

As I reflect on the past week and the broader journey of my life, I’m so grateful that I’ve not held the script in my own hands. Many of the trying moments, pains, and frustrations I’ve endured would likely have been edited out in a quest to construct a “perfect” life. In doing so, I might have overlooked the remarkable treasures hidden just beyond the curtain of despair.

I don’t possess all the answers, and I’m content with that uncertainty. My path is one of faith, a willingness to embrace challenges, and an unwavering commitment to celebrating the moments of joy that grace my journey. I will continue to navigate the uncharted territory of this unscripted life, knowing that it is in these unanticipated moments where the true essence of existence thrives. And I hope you will, too.

Weekly With Whitfield – Transition

by 1 Comment

As we make our way from one space to the next over the course of our lives, there are always a transition periods. During those moments of transition, all too often, there’s a great swirl of emotions that churn within us. And the way we navigate those emotions is critical to the outcomes those transitional moments bring.

The Challenge of Change 

Change can be challenging. Learning new things presents new and unique opportunities. Getting to know the new faces takes a lot of energy and intentional focus. Transitioning from that which you were very familiar with to something new presents you with daily moments of learning, application, and reflection. 

And these are all wonderful things! I firmly believe that it is in these moments throughout the course of our lives that we grow the most. Comfort and familiarity seems all well and good. But it is during these transitional periods that we really find out what we’re made of.

Unexpected Transitions

Roughly two years ago I began a transition that I never anticipated. In a matter of days, my entire life was flipped upside down. All of a sudden, I was thrust into the national spotlight answering calls from The New York Times, NBC, The Washington Post, and the likes.

In an instant, I went from someone who was very “don’t make the 6 o’clock news” to “let’s use the news to highlight what’s happening here and bring awareness” – something I was unfamiliar with and, if I’m honest, rather uncomfortable with. But, seeing as though I grew up in an environment where I was forced to fight through various things that came my way, I knew only one course of action…TO FIGHT.

As I transitioned to a new world of media engagements and advocacy I felt discombobulated. This space looked and felt quite different than showing up at school each day surrounded by the staff and students I adored. I felt empty and alone. I felt disconnected and depressed. This transition was not something I’d planned for, nor desired, yet here I was.

Embrace the Unknown

Over time I would find my footing. What helped the most was looking into the eyes of the people who love me most, my family. Over time I would come to reframe the situation. This transition would not be something happening to me. Rather, I would turn this on its head and take what was meant for my detriment into something positive for my family and the greater global community. 

I put my head down and started on projects I’d once considered, but never did. One of those projects was writing a book and, boy, do I have a doozy in the works to shine a light on what so many educators across the country are facing. I won’t share too much now but I can’t wait until it’s time to send that out into the world. 

Family Support

Most importantly, though, I looked at this as an opportunity to be there for my family in a way that I’d never been able to over the course of my career. Those who know me, know – I only know one way to be a teacher/coach/administer – and that’s FULL FORCE! I give my all to every school I’ve had the pleasure of serving. And, while I have the most amazing and understanding family support system, I know that, oftentimes, they took what was left of me after many of those long, challenging days serving in public schools.

Personal Growth

Slowly, I got out of bed a bit quicker, I calmed my bitterness and frustration, and I leaned into being ON for my family. That’s not to say that disappointment, frustration, bitterness, and anger did not rear their ugly heads over time. They did. If I told you the amount of times I heard people say I’d never work in public education in the metroplex again. If I heard it once, I heard it a hundred times. And I’m talking from folks in pretty high-up places in various districts across the DFW. And every time it had nothing to do with who I was. No, that was intact, well known, and even desired by many of these people. Yet the lack of intestinal fortitude kept many from taking a leap of faith for fear of a small group of hateful, bigoted, intolerant people. It’s been both an eye-opening and disappointing realization that some who claim to be in this work for kids and educators are really more interested in political positioning and harmful games.

Overcoming Adversity

But I would not let this consume me. In reality, I dodged a bullet with those who were afraid of the “bogeyman backlash”, as I sure did not want to end up in a situation where I was serving for a leader who lacked courage, integrity, and conviction. So I embraced the transition and chose to make the most of the challenges presented to me. I poured into my family, advocacy work that took me to the halls of Congress, and partnering with educators, higher education institutions and other organizations across the country. When you’re from where I’m from you’ve learned to make magic out of mess. 

New Beginnings

A few weeks ago, I turned the page on that chapter of life – a chapter that has been more like an entire crazy book. And now I’ve transitioned to a new, beautiful chapter… back in a beautiful school, doing what I love. This transition comes with a new role, a role that entails leading a small, but mighty, district made up of roughly 400 students K-12. It’s such a special place – the acres of tall, big trees, the winding creek, and, most importantly, THE PEOPLE. Everyone has been so warm and welcoming. They’ve made this transition smoother than I ever could’ve imagined. I’m forever grateful that God made this possible. What some meant for harm, He turned to good. 

So as you make the twists and turns of the various transition points in life, give yourself the grace to feel, learn, and grow. As tough as the terrain may be at the moment, always know that you don’t have to walk that rocky road alone. Be still and reflect on ways to reframe and reload to propel yourself forward towards brighter days. I’m rooting for you in all your days ahead.

Weekly With Whitfield – Conflicted

by Leave a Comment

This week has been filled with conflicting emotions. Generally, it’s been positive and productive. But I’d be lying if I told you positivity stayed throughout the week. Thankfully, joy has outweighed pain, but as I searched for what to write about today I’ve been very, very conflicted.

Family Pool Days

We had the chance to have a backyard full of friends and family this past Sunday afternoon. I spent the day sweltering over the grill in the 100 plus degree Texas heat. But, man, was it worth it. In the hustle and bustle of daily life it is hard to nail down the whole extended family but, on this day, we did. Through my sweat-stinging eyes, I looked around that backyard and just took it in. I didn’t even get any pictures, that’s how tuned in I was. Like so many things of beauty, the image captured in real life – in the moment – is so much more powerful than any picture. The pictures simply don’t do it justice. My heart was filled with so much pride, joy, and contentment. 

Processing Loss

We are still reeling over the loss of our dear friend, Kim. Over the course of the last two weeks we’ve cycled through the stages of grief many times. While our faith is very strong, our human nature still kicks in from time to time. We try to make sense of something so tragic – something we’ll never be able to do. Then, we have moments of remembrance and joy that seem to push back the pain. And, soon thereafter, moments of anger well up in our souls. To anyone out there experiencing such loss, I hope you know that whatever you’re feeling is completely normal. Don’t beat yourself up as you navigate the emotions that come with these tragedies that crop up in your life. Allow yourself to feel in order to heal.

Ahead to New Beginnings

I can see light at the end of the tunnel. While we’re still engaged in a form of litigation, one chapter of that sage comes to a close next Tuesday. While the last couple years have been some of the hardest in my life, I am still encouraged by the road ahead. I am so grateful for all the love, support, and encouragement that so many people extended our family throughout this time. I’ll never forget your kindness. My faith tells me that this road has prepared me for something far greater than I could ever imagine – such has been the case for my entire life. I’m excited to see what God’s hands will lay out for our family in the days to come. And I vow to give my very best to glorify His name through it all.

Wedding Bells

I get to officiate my first wedding this weekend in beautiful Cancun, Mexico.

That’s right, your boy is officially an ordained minister.

I’m so honored that my sister-in-law, my wife’s twin sister, Sandy, and her fiancé, Ricardo, have asked me to be part of their special day in such a way. My heart is so happy that they have found each other. 

Sandy is so much more than an “in-law” to me – she is the sister I never had and I love her dearly. To witness her pure joy and happiness means the world to me. As she will attest, I am very protective of her. She is a phenomenal human and deserves nothing but the very best in life. And, in Ricardo, I can see that she has found that. 

The same goes to Ricardo – he is such a wonderful human with a heart of gold, deserving of the very best in life. And, with Sandy, he’s found that. I’m so excited for them to begin this journey together. 

Rollercoaster of Life

Y’all, isn’t that real life? It’s never really in a straight line. Each day can carry its own unique opportunities and feelings. But I think it is key for us to remember to stand in each of those moments, granting us the space to simply be. So, while this week has been a bit more conflicting than normal…such is life. Understand that life brings with it conflicting emotions and contradictions, but you were made for these moments. We’re not guaranteed that this thing will be smooth and scripted. And, quite honestly, I’m glad…because that would be a pretty boring existence. Feel the pain, but don’t get stuck in it. Embrace the joy and don’t be afraid to share it with others. Love yourself and grant yourself the grace to be.

Weekly With Whitfield – Journey

by 1 Comment

This week, I celebrated my 45th trip around the sun. I can hardly wrap my mind around the fact that I am now 45 years old. My emotions are all over the place as I reflect on being here to see such a day.  As for most of us, life has been quite the adventurous ride, filled with trials and tribulations. And with each passing year I am filled with immense gratitude. As I reflect on the journey I can’t help but stand in complete awe of God’s grace, mercy, and steadfast love. As I looked around at the party that gathered at the restaurant I was consumed with feelings of warmth, gratitude, love, and joy. Good friends, my baby brother, my children, my beautiful bride – what more could a guy ask for? 

Thank you, Lord!

Out of the Darkness

As a young boy, I felt as though I’d never grow old. At least I couldn’t envision it. 

How the hell would I get there?

Time seemed to tick along, ever so slowly, as we navigated the challenges of daily life. 

I couldn’t see beyond the day. Try as I may, it was hard to envision brighter days. I was surrounded by chaos and often felt as though things may have been better for everyone if I’d never been born. 

As I lay in my bed each night I’d envision a world that didn’t include me. And, while I never contemplated taking my own life, the questioning of my existence, my purpose, persisted:

What is the meaning of this?

Why am I here?

Why so much pain, conflict, and struggle?

Those questions, and so many more, found their way into the recesses of my mind in the still of the night under the cover of darkness. Thankfully, along the way, God blessed me with so many people who saw me, believed in me, nurtured me, and loved me through the mess. As I celebrated my 45th birthday, surrounded by loved ones who’ve been part of this journey, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude. Throughout my life, the people I’ve met, experiences I’ve lived, and the challenges I’ve overcome that helped that poor little boy from Midland, TX to resoundingly answer those questions of his existence. 

Embrace the Journey

Life’s journey is so very unpredictable. I have learned to embrace the beauty that lies in that. Each twist and turn presents a chance to learn and grow. And as I step into this next chapter, I carry with me the lessons learned, excited for the road ahead. 

On my birthday week, my wish for you is to embrace the journey, cherish every moment, and celebrate the beauty of this complex, yet beautiful, life. Don’t stop believin’!

 

Weekly With Whitfield – Parenthood

by 2 Comments

Among life’s most profound joys, few can match the bliss found in parenthood. It is such a transformative journey of love, sacrifice, and growth – a journey that has changed my life for the better. 

I am a father to three amazing children. My eldest son, Jordan, is 27 years old. My daughter, Lauren, is 22 years old. And my youngest, Landon, is 10 years old. I’ve got quite the range of ages. But what a blessing and honor it is to be their father. Each of them have taught me unique things about myself that I may have never understood without their existence. Grateful is truly an understatement.

Baby Boy

Landon, who will be in fifth grade in the fall, is out for summer break. With that, he and I spend most every day together as I am an educator and have flexible summers. This week I was scrolling through my Google photos album, which is filled with videos from when he was a baby till now.  I was struck at just how fast 10 years can fly by. And the joy and happiness that I see in these videos and pictures is reflective of the experience of daily life with him. These aren’t just moments that have been singled out to be part of some montage. What I see is a reflection of daily life with this amazing young person. At this stage in my life to get the experience of daily life through the eyes of a child is absolutely beautiful. What a wondrous ride it is.

Baby Girl

I had an opportunity to have lunch with my beautiful baby girl, Lauren, this week. When my baby girl asks if I want to do lunch, I do lunch. As I listened to her vision for the future, her hopes for a better world, and her ideas of what to do to impact the lives of people in a deep and meaningful way, I was moved beyond words. This young lady amazes me every day. She’s got so many creative ideas and things that will help people who need it the most. I hope she knows how very proud I am of her. She has such a deep care for the lives of others. At 22 years of age she’s a college graduate, she’s gainfully employed, and she’s working on becoming an entrepreneur.  If you get a chance to meet Lauren you will initially be struck by her glow, her outward beauty.  But what is most impressive is the shine that is within. I’m so proud of her and honored to be her father.

The O.G.

A couple weeks ago my eldest son, Jordan, invited me to be his guest at the annual Fort Worth Metropolitan Black Chamber of Commerce luncheon, which was held this week. If you’ve ever met Jordan you know that he is an amazing young man. Truly, he is the best man I know. And to be his guest at this event made my heart so very happy. To enter the space of this luncheon of roughly 900 guests and watch him work a room, engaging with folks – his smile, his interest in people’s lives, his ability to carry a conversation – was something to behold. Usually in those spaces I’m the one out doing the talking and mixing but on that day I simply took a backseat in pride and watched my baby boy, a boy that entered my life at the age of 17 years old, shine. He absolutely changed the course of my life for the better. And I have no doubt that all who cross his path will be all the better for it.

Shifting the Narrative

The absence of a father figure in my life initially left a void. Yet, in the depths of that void, seeds of resilience and determination took root. On most evenings, in my childhood, my mother and I would sit out on our bench swing in the front yard. So many fond conversations on that swing. One of the recurring conversations was that of the husband and father I promised to be for my wife and kids when that time came. Over time, I would recognize that the absence of a father did not define my worth or my potential to be an exceptional father myself. Instead, it would spark a fire within me to become the father I longed for.

Over the last 27 years, I’ve had the honor of witnessing the magic of parenthood unfold. This journey has been about creating a sanctuary of love and support, where dreams can flourish. Through every bedtime story, scraped knee kissed, and heartfelt conversation, my hope is to craft a legacy that transcends generations. To my own father, I offer forgiveness and gratitude. I carry your lessons with me, not as a burden, but as a source of inspiration to be the best father I can be. Offering no resentment, only love.

I am guided by love, driven by purpose, and devoted to creating a better future for my children. In this sacred role, I cherish the privilege of being a father –  knowing that I have the power to shape lives, to cultivate dreams, and to foster love that will ripple through generations to come. And as I watch my children grow, I am humbled by the amazing humans they have become. Being your father is truly one of life’s greatest joys!

Parent Appreciation

Shout out to all the amazing parents out there making it happen for your children. It’s a challenging role, filled with a rollercoaster of emotions. Along the way it’s natural to question if you’re doing it “right”. In those moments, grant yourself grace and remember that being a parent doesn’t come with instructions, per say. Each child is different and will bring forth their own unique challenges that may make you question yourself. In those moments, please don’t hesitate to reach out to someone. Chances are, someone out there has faced the same parenthood challenges. You’re not alone. And you are exactly the right person for the job. You are divinely appointed. 

Weekly With Whitfield – Change

by 3 Comments

Change is inevitable yet it’s often the hardest thing for us to accept. In the midst of change we may be forced to shift our perspectives, alter our approach to various situations, take on roles and responsibilities we may not have anticipated, and/or consider things that once seemed beyond our purview, just to name a few. 

The impetus for change often arises when we least expect it – a loved one gets sick; we are betrayed by those we once trusted; we incur an injury that makes us realize just how critical every single muscle and bone in the body matters; life throws us a curveball and we’re forced to reconsider our life and/or career choices. Change cares not for our comfort level or readiness to embrace it. Instead, it challenges our deepest fears and reservations, daring us to resist. 

My Rockstar Wife

My wife is a master stylist. The work she does in her salon each day is truly magical. People enter her suite carrying a multitude of the heavy that life can deal us. While much of what happens in there has to do with chemical formulations, styling, and various cuts, so often, people leave a bit lighter. Sure, they may feel better about their physical appearance, but this visit also serves to uplift folks spirits.

In that space, day in-day out, Kerrie pours into her clients with a love and care that goes beyond the magic she does with their hair – she is a friend and confidant, devoting a laser-focused time and energy on each client. In that room, change takes place in physical and emotional forms each day. And, for the last 5 years, she’s served in the same location. This place has been a steady hand in our lives. Along the way, she’s built wonderful friendships that will last a lifetime. But…it was time for change.

A New Space

For weeks she weighed the prospect of leaving this place that had been her second home. Then, she jumped at an opportunity to set up shop at a place she’s had her eyes on for years. Decision made, it was now time to go through the moving process – remove things hanging on the wall, pack up, load up, clean up, unload, unpack, hang everything back up, order necessities, countless trips to Lowe’s, and arrange the space to be client-ready in a matter of days. It’s been quite the process to go from a distant thought, to so close you could feel it, to reality. But here we are. She’s moved in, embracing change, and ready for what the next leg of her journey brings.

I’m so proud of her. Her ability to navigate the changes of life and do so with such flair is truly inspiring. No matter the challenge, she embraces it and moves full-force in the direction of progress. She continually growing in her craft and being a rockstar mother and wife at the same time. 

Your Friend, Change

As you navigate the various shifts along your own, unique, journey, may you never forget that change is not your foe; it’s stagnation that hinders progress. I pray you will embrace the winds of change, welcoming the gentle whispers of new beginnings, invigorating perspectives, and infinite possibilities that lie ahead. For within the unexplored lies the potential for great and mighty things beyond our wildest dreams.

Weekly With Whitfield – Endings

by 4 Comments

Throughout this week, the concept of endings has occupied my thoughts, leading me to ponder the profound role they play in shaping our lives. As the familiar sound of the school bell reverberated through the air, my eyes were fixed on my son, Landon, who, in that very moment, transitioned from a fourth grader to a fifth grader. The previous year had dissipated like dust in the wind as he excitedly dashed towards me, arms wide open for an affectionate embrace.

Happy Retirement

However, my gaze extended beyond the immediate, and I noticed Mrs. Pybus, his teacher, lingering in the distance. In this moment, I realized that for Mrs. Pybus, this marked the culmination of a profound and storied career. Landon had the privilege of being a part of her final class before she chose to embark on the journey of retirement. The conclusion of fourth grade for Landon mirrored the final notes of a symphony composed of Mrs. Pybus’ unwavering dedication to the service of children—a harmonious culmination of a lifelong pursuit.

Endings are complex and multifaceted, evoking a mixture of emotions that ebb and flow within us. They carry with them a sense of uncertainty that shrouds our path forward. Yet, nestled within the depths of this uncertainty lies an extraordinary revelation: as we bid farewell to one chapter, we create fertile ground for new beginnings to take root and flourish.

Time Flies

Although we still have one more year of elementary school left with our youngest child, I am acutely aware of how swiftly this chapter will draw to a close. This realization has been solidified through my experiences with both Jordan and Lauren, my older children. It feels as though it was only yesterday when they embarked upon their tentative first steps into the realm of kindergarten, their innocent eyes brimming with curiosity and wonder. And yet, like a fleeting wind gust, they have matured into remarkable individuals, confidently donning their caps and gowns, clutching their hard-earned college degrees. There was a time when these transitions filled me with melancholy, a sense of loss as familiar chapters reached their final pages. However, as time has passed, I have learned to embrace the inherent opportunities that lie within endings, and I cherish the privilege of being present to witness the dawning of new beginnings alongside my children.

Endings, rather than being definitive conclusions, should be perceived as the threshold to a fresh chapter in the intricate story of our lives. Instead of succumbing to worry or apprehension, I urge you to wholeheartedly embrace each moment and seize the opportunity to embark on this new season with unwavering enthusiasm and resolute determination. 

Weekly With Whitfield- Lessons

by Leave a Comment

This week marked the 26th Mother’s Day since my mother, Beverly Jan Whitfield, went to be with our father in heaven. It’s hard to wrap my mind around all that transpired in my life since then – all the moments I wished she’d been able to experience in the flesh.

I’m so grateful for my fabulous wife, Kerrie. Not only is she the most wonderful spouse, she’s a rockstar of a mom. And, with that, I’m able to shift my focus from the sadness of my loss to creating a celebratory experience for her. She absolutely amazes me.

It took me a while for me to lean into the pain of missing my mother so dearly. Especially on Mother’s Day. In those early days after her death I tried to push that pain down deep.

If I hid it well enough, no one could see it.

If no one could see it, they’d think I was “tough”.

If folks thought I was tough, they’d see that “I got this”.

Spoiler Alert – this is not a winning formula. In the years after her death I’d find myself wandering aimlessly through life. That journey would lead to monumental crossroads. I had to choose wisely. While I definitely did not choose the wisest of paths at various points along the way, over time, the rooted lessons I learned from my mother began to bloom.

While she was not able to obtain her teaching degree before her passing she was, most definitely, my most impactful teacher. She wasn’t a “told you so” type of parent. She took time to talk to me and break things down. Never the authoritarian, but at the same time, taking zero shenanigans.

Although free time was scarce as she worked seemingly endless hours to put food on the table, every free moment she got she poured into me. Whether it was shooting hoops, throwing the football, watching Pistons or Bulls games, playing the piano, or just simply sitting out on that bench swing in the middle of our rocky, dirt front yard – there was never a question as to who her number one priority was – me. So many lessons. Too much to shove into one blog post. But I’d love to share a bit of what my mother left with me, with you.

Through it all, she was a constant force. These lessons continue to provide counsel to me 26 years later. A mother’s love is one of the most powerful forces in the universe. Here’s a bit of the love and lessons she left with me.

Rise

Do not allow your pain and troubles to keep you in the pit of despair. Life is hard, at times. Few find life to be easy, even those who it may seem. Press on. Don’t lie on the floor waiting for the end. Rise and begin, again. Maintain an unwavering focus on the positive aspects of existence, even amid the crumbling edifice of life’s challenges. For beyond the veil of adversity lies the potential for profound growth and remarkable triumph.

Love

Love unreservedly and passionately, even in the face of unrequited affection. Embrace love as an indomitable force, for it holds transformative power beyond measure. Welcome the vast spectrum of humanity, transcending the confines of societal stratification, racial divisions, and other arbitrary labels. Extend warmth and acceptance to all, allowing love and genuine engagement to shape and transform the world around you.

Serve

Cultivate a spirit of service, irrespective of your standing in this world. Recognize that the capacity to serve extends to all, transcending external circumstances. Seek to extend your benevolence not only to those seemingly burdened by adversity, but also to those who exude apparent prosperity. Every individual, at some point, yearns for connection. Place no prerequisite on who you serve. And do not expect reciprocity. But, more often than not, it will come back to you tenfold.

Speak Up

Do not be afraid to engage in relentless struggle! Fight ardently for your convictions, for the well-being of your family, and for the realization of a life befitting their worth. Understand that the path will not always be smooth, and victories will not be absolute, but remember that the war cannot be won unless the battle is waged. Fight with courage, integrity, and conviction!

The Miracle of You

Embrace your authentic self, recognizing that there exists no other being on this planet like you. Within the unique composition of your being lies the potential for extraordinary deeds. However, this potential can only be unleashed through a genuine acceptance of oneself. You are a miracle. Go and do miraculous things!

Family is Number 1

Devote yourself to diligent effort across all realms of existence, not solely confining your labor to the professional sphere. Often, we become consumed by the role our occupations play in our lives. We tirelessly pursue upward mobility. Remember, that role will be filled by someone else tomorrow if you leave today. That is not the case for your family. You fill a role that is irreplaceable. Ensure that you channel your energy and dedication into nurturing your family, fostering their growth and well-being more than anything. Family over everything!

Gratitude

Sing, dance, and express gratitude in all circumstances! Remember that life is ephemeral, a fleeting moment in the grand tapestry of existence. Therefore, consciously choose joy as your guiding companion through the symphony of life. That’s not to say that you should not feel pain. No, pain is a natural state of being in this life. But the key is to not get stuck there. Somewhere, someone wishes they were in your shoes, no matter how challenging you think you have it. Live in gratitude.

Be a Lighthouse

We are all interconnected, although some have yet to embrace this universal truth. Reflect upon those who have regarded us with bewildering gazes in various establishments, as if we were monstrous apparitions. Understand that their limited perception blinds them to the profound beauty that lies beyond the confines of race. Soon, more souls shall awaken to this realization. Do not succumb to ignorance; instead, acknowledge its innate existence within humanity and become a radiant beacon, illuminating the path for others. Let your light shine brightly! It just may be the beacon for someone who needs it.

The Great Beyond

Direct your gaze heavenward! Engage in prayer with earnestness and sincerity. Allow the divine to anchor your being, regardless of the tempestuous storms that assail you. Trust that divine guidance shall accompany each step of your journey, acknowledging that the path may not be easy, yet unequivocally worthwhile. You are living for something greater on the other side.

Forgiveness

In the journey of life, wounds and conflicts are inevitable. However, it is essential for us to be able to forgive. You must learn to release the burden of resentment and grudges that weigh heavy on your heart. By forgiving others and yourself, you free your spirit from the shackles of negativity and create space for healing, growth, and inner peace. Remember, forgiveness is not about condoning or forgetting the hurtful actions, but about choosing compassion and empathy over bitterness and revenge. It is a profound act of strength and a pathway to harmony within oneself and with others. Embracing forgiveness allows you to let go of the past and embrace the beauty and potential of the present moment. Forgiveness frees.

A Mother’s Love

I miss my mother so very much, but I call on her spirit, strength, and the lessons she taught me on a daily basis. I pray that one or more of these points resonated with someone who needed to hear her wisdom.

A mother’s love is one of the most powerful forces in the universe, reaching out into a future she could only dream of.

Dreams come true, Momma.

I love you!