It’s been such a long time since I’ve blogged. Too long.
Sometimes, I can get too critical of the process; wanting to somehow
know what the other side of “this particular through” looks like. Yearning to not be wrong in my perception of
what God is doing. I’m learning to
relax. Learning that not having the answers is okay. Learning that me writing is more me
verbalizing my head on paper. Getting it
out. Encouraging others who may feel the same.
But today, Maya made me write again.
I found my eyes welling with tears when I heard of her
passing. I couldn’t believe I wanted to
cry over her loss. As I’m talking to
myself, telling myself to get it together, I realized why. With people like the Nelson Mandelas and the
Maya Angelous leaving us, I think of my own grandmother who I’m blessed to
still have in my life at 92 years young.
What an awesome testimony of grace, perseverance and quiet strength. I look at her and often wish I had the grace
she does. I’m much more outspoken and
raw. I’m put together, yet bursting at the seams if that makes sense. She’s an educator, a matriarch, a picture of
legacy, who will overflow in hysterical laughter with you while reminding you
that the question you just posed ended with an unnecessary preposition. And I’m
now really crying.
Because I don’t know y’all.
I just don’t know. Does our
generation get it? And while I’m far from
hating on the things that the Beyonces and the Angelina Jolie’s who in
their own right regardless of their flaws are making a difference – they’re not
making a Maya Angelou difference. They’re
not making a Nelson Mandela difference. We
are not making stands, waves, ripples, tides turn, for a cause greater than
ourselves.
I was just asking someone, what famous female role models do
our girls have? And I’m not talking about Oprah and Michelle Obama. I’m talking about between the ages of 20 and
40. Where are they? I find myself
feeling a burden for the girls and guys we teach weekly in our youth
ministry. A burden to provide hope; a
bridge between cool and morality; hip and holy; unique yet inspirational. But it’s hard, y’all. And it’s hard because the Mayas are
dying.
So, this is my promise – ode to the generation of today – I promise
to be the very best I can be. I promise to make stands when necessary; to think
on the edge of the box; to live for a cause greater than myself. And while I may never be famous; I promise to
be famous in my community for integrity. I promise to not allow the fact that I
will never be perfect to deter me from getting back on the bandwagon of hope
for the change that I can affect right in front of my face!
And while there will only be one Maya, one grandma full of
grace, and one Nelson – there will also only be one you. “If you don’t like something, change it. If
you can’t change it, change your attitude.” – Maya Angelou
Will you join me?
Daughter, you are making a difference now. At home, in your community, at church and as a wife and mother. You Are a local Maya Angelou ! Just continue on the path God has laid for you. I am Proud to call you Daughter !
ReplyDeleteThanks dad! I appreciate you and your kind words! :-)
DeleteThis is the type of ground-breaking writing that causes generational change. This writing piece offered insight as to what the world changers of today need to take hold of. If we all would start in the mirror, we wouldn't have room to be judgmental. We could provide the type of leadership and balanced example that this technology-driven, short-cut seeking, everything-easy generation needs to look to. You are the closest example to the type of leader you discuss in this writing that I know of in my 31 years of life!
DeleteJason, thanks so much for these words! I praise God - such a privilege - to serve His people. I'm humbled every time I think of His goodness and how much I deserve none of it!
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteOh how Ms Maya would be proud! Great job Kristen.
ReplyDeleteHere are some encouraging words from Maya Angelou herself:
"I would like to be known as an intelligent woman, a courageous woman, a loving woman, a woman who teaches by being."
"The desire to reach for the stars is ambitious. The desire to reach hearts is wise."
"A bird doesn't sing because it has an answer. It sings because it has a song."
I will join you in that promise to this generation...
Yes, Yes, Yes, Tasha! Thanks for sharing! What a life, I tell you! What a legacy!
DeleteI am inspired and encouraged. Each one must not only teach one but lead one, be an example to one and continue doing whatever one can do as long as one is able. As long as we trust the One, we can run with endurance doing the work He has for us knowing we are covered and the end of the story is already written. I'm in!
ReplyDeleteYes, Mrs. Diane! And what an example you have been to the West Chester Dance Works and Diane Matthews Dance. It's a legacy. It's a positive example of dance and life - that has touched so many. And those touches make the ripples in their communities and the legacy has hope to continue! Thank you!
DeleteThis is so real and true! So many things I see and once was that I would like to help shape our youth. Thank you for speaking up and taking a stand. I stand with you!!
ReplyDeleteYes Candi! Our youth need you! Thanks for standing with me!
ReplyDelete