Keep the Faith Baby!

Pastor and Politician Adam Clayton Powell Jr was a well known advocate. Although politically he only represented the community of Harlem, his work in the church, civil rights, community service    and his fiery speeches changed the world. Powell was  the first African American to be elected to the United States House of Representatives from 1945 - 1971. He had many impactful quotes, however probably his most famous quote was "Keep the Faith, Baby"! He even wrote a book and produced an album with that title. Those are positive words we need to hear in any era.

In this time of COVID 19, for many of us it may be difficult to see anything positive. However, during this pandemic, this is the time we must look for things that ignite our hope. I'm not a Pastor like Powell, but I'd like to share how we can, "Keep the Faith, Baby" through these challenging times.

1. Look Up!  Let's be honest; watching the news everyday and hearing the alarming numbers on illnesses and deaths can be very scary. It can cause us to feel down and even physically make our faces point to the floor,  looking down; feeling that things will never get any better. However, this is where our faith must kick in. Pray with your family and pray for your community and friends and for our world. Things will get better so don't give up hope.

2. Look Away! Sometimes hearing all the negative news can be overwhelming. You must take a break. Step away from the television. Take the dog for walk, play some board games with your family, turn on some music and dance around the room. Turn off the TV and  move from the latest headlines. It's ok to be concerned but don't become consumed. 

3.  Look Ahead! This too shall pass! Let's plan for the future. For many of us, this has been a time for reflection; what have you been delaying in your life; what's on your, "One day I'm going to..." list? Now that most of us must stay home and shelter in place,  take time to re-evaluate that list. From cleaning out the basement to making plans to  go back to college when this pandemic ends. Start planning for the Next step in your future!

Let's remember we are all in this together so learn to lean on one another and "Keep the Faith, Baby!'

New Years Resolutions: Take Two

Did you make 2020 New Years Resolutions? Me too. And if you are like most people, by now, most of us have already given up on those goals we once held so dear. But don't give up. There's still plenty of time to be successful.  Here's How:
1. Re-evaluate Your Initial Goals: Maybe your initial New Years goals were made out of traditional. Don't be afraid to make new goals that are sincere to your dreams.
2. Take Small Steps: Your goals don't have to be something big. Think of obtainable ideas that will give you a sense of satisfaction.
3. Stay Calm: Take it easy and don't be too hard on yourself. Do your best and you will have success!
Make 2020 your best year ever!

Shirley Chisholm - Educator, Congresswoman and Activitist

Shirley Chisholm (1924-2005) earned her master's degree in education from Columbia University. She later became an expert on early childhood education, working as a consultant to New York City's Bureau of Child Welfare, from 1959-1964.
But in 1968 Shirley stepped into the history books. She became the first woman to win a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. And her history making didn't stop there. In 1972 Shirley Chisholm became the first African American and first woman to declare her candidacy for the office of President of the United States!
Shirley retired from Congress in 1983, however, she stayed active in her community. She became an author, she taught at the Mount Holyoke College in Massachusetts, she spoke out against the Vietnam War and she advocated for the needs of the poor.

Wilma Rudolph - Athlete

Wilma Rudolph (1940-1994) earned the title "World's Fastest Woman" after winning the 100 meter dash, the 200 meter dash and anchoring the 400 meter relay at the 1960 Olympics in Rome. She also was the first female American runner to win three gold medals in the Olympic Games. Those achievements alone are remarkable. However what makes it even more amazing is what happened in Wilma's life before becoming this world renowned champion.
As a child, Wilma suffered an attack of polio and scarlet fever that left her unable to walk without the help of leg braces or orthopedic shoes until she was twelve years old. Her accomplishments are credited with helping remove barriers to women's participation in track and field. During her lifetime, Wilma received many honors and awards, including being named the Associated Press Woman Athlete of the Year and the Babe Didrikson Zaharias Award. In 1974, Wilma was inducted into the National Track and Field Hall of Fame.

Patricia Roberts Harris - Attorney, Ambassador, Cabinet Member

Patricia Roberts Harris (1924-1985) had a lifetime of firsts. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from Howard University in Washington, DC. After graduating with honors from Washington University's Law School in 1960, she was admitted to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court and the District of Columbia bar. Patricia was granted tenure as a professor of law at Howard University in 1963. In 1969, she was named the Dean of the university's School of Law, becoming the first African American woman to head a law school in the United States.
Patricia was appointed as the Ambassador to Luxembourg by President Lyndon Johnson, becoming the first African American woman to be chosen for an ambassadorship. In 1977, President Jimmy Carter appointed her as Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. Patricia was the first African American woman to hold a Cabinet post. She would eventually become the Secretary of Health and Human Services in 1979.

Bessie Coleman - Aviator

Bessie Coleman (1893-1926) must have been a true woman of courage. Her nickname was Brave Bessie and she earned every bit of it. Bessie was the first licensed African American pilot! And she didn't let her race or gender stop her dream. Can you image her courage of even daring to have a dream of wanting to be a pilot in America in the early 1900s? Not even being denied to enter flight school in the United States would stop her. Bessie trained in France and received her license in 1921. A year later, she earned her international pilot's license  When she returned to the United States, Bessie planned to open a flight school so other African Americans could become pilots too, but she needed money. She used her skills performing aviation stunts in air shows all around the country to raise funds. And Bessie wasn't just an aviator, she was also an activist. She would refuse to perform unless African Americans were allowed to use the same entrance to her shows as white attendees.  Eventually, Bessie earned enough money to buy three airplanes and she was getting closer to fulfill her dream of owning her flight school. Tragically, Bessie Coleman was killed in a plane crash while performing in an air show on April 30, 1926 in Jacksonville, Florida.

Bessie Coleman was an inspiration to all future African American pilots. For more information on Bessie Coleman, go to your local library.

Getting Started in 2020

Happy 2020!
It's so hard to believe that we're not only beginning a New Year but a New Decade; Wow! I remember New Years eve 2000 when so many fatalistic people were predicting the end of the world; ridiculous. The New Year is when most of us get ready for a fresh start. So if you want to be more physically or fiscally fit, here are some useful tips I suggest for success!
Set Your Goal:  Put some serious thought into what you want to achieve this year and make it realistic. You will not lose 20 pounds in a week, but you can do it over time. Stay positive as you work toward your goal.
Gather your Support: Most folks are more successful when they have a support system. Tell family and friends what you want to accomplish and ask them to help you stay on track.
Get Started: Procrastination is a terrible thing. The "I'll begin sometime" attitude can derail our plans. Not next week or next month, get started now. Don't delay; start today!
Keep the faith, stay focused and have a fun New Year!