10/16/2024
Thank you lord! Oh, how I have suffered A New Dawn in My Journey
Thank you, Lord! Oh, how I have suffered, sacrificed, and persevered. Last summer brought a refreshing breeze into my life as I journeyed to the beautiful landscapes of Upstate New York. Though I cherished the land and treasured my coworkers, I felt the pull to return home, leaving behind my students and family for a season. That experience was transformative—while there, I learned to play the saxophone and connected with brilliant minds from the fine and performing arts, forming friendships with people from all around the world.
Twice I was invited to return to that camp, but I knew my time with my students and family was irreplaceable. So, I stayed and poured myself into my studies, completing all coursework while awaiting a scholarship. When the door closed after they discovered my motorcycle accident, it left me with time—time that others spent partying or watching television, I used to study. It felt like a haze, but it was a divine preparation. I longed to learn from my professors—how they ran their churches, carried themselves, and trained their staff. Their teachings echoed what I had seen in other churches and stirred a deep curiosity in me about the foundations of faith and doctrine.
At Christian Leaders Institute, I discovered a new rhythm of education. Their online platform was easy to navigate, and the instructors shared not only their successes but also their struggles, making them feel as relatable as old friends. Their blend of biblical knowledge with practical wisdom was inspiring—speaking with both gravity and humor while diving into profound, life-changing topics. I even learned how to navigate social interactions more gracefully, understanding the toll culture can take on ministry.
But the journey wasn’t without challenges. Paying for the program felt like a mountain to climb. Previous failed attempts at college left me ineligible for federal aid. Although I wanted to jump into my truck and embark on another adventure, like my time in New York, I knew my responsibilities to my church, business, and family came first. I prayed, pondered, and cried, unsure if I’d ever afford the tuition. Fear gripped me—what if I never finished? What if prices rose beyond my reach? But I remembered God has not given us a spirit of fear, and I pressed on.
Surviving a near-death experience and being sent back to life reminded me that I have been called to something greater. I’m not content with being an average preacher—I aspire to walk in the footsteps of Billy Graham, to sing with the heart of Bob Dylan, and to lead with the wisdom of Pastor Patterson of Greater New Zion Baptist Church in Dallas.
In ministry, education may not be required, but people will know you by your fruit and by what you’ve studied. In the South, it often takes three times the effort to be recognized, and even then, some may try to downplay your accomplishments. Yet, rising above the blue-collar world requires navigating a system of politics beyond simple hard work.
Earning my undergraduate degree is just the beginning—a springboard toward graduate studies. This second chance at life is a gift I refuse to squander. Like the parable of the talents, I will multiply what God has given me. I will serve His people with humility, professionalism, and grace, always honoring the One who keeps me from falling.
This is a new dawn. Though some still see me as I was, I am proud of the person I am becoming. Some have stood by me through my darkest hours, and I am grateful—but now, you are witnessing the beginning of a new chapter. I have risen from my former self, embracing both my intellect and physical strength. This is not the end; I still have miles to go.
I will not wallow in poverty or grow comfortable with mediocrity. I know God has good things in store for me. With faith and hard work, I will climb higher, striving for excellence and purpose. This is the path I’ve been called to walk—and I intend to walk it with courage, faith, and unwavering resolve.and sacrificed.
