“When you learn, teach, when you get, give.” — Maya Angelou
The other night I had the opportunity to attend the 1st inaugural Common Ground Foundation Gala in Chicago. My mom accompanied me to the star-studded black-tie event and we both had an amazing time. My day job brings me in contact with a lot of celebs and I’m rarely star-struck but I have to be honest; my knees buckled when I took a picture with Common in front of the step and repeat. (I didn’t think it was possible, but the man is even more beautiful in person. Not to mention extremely humble, kind and respectful).
My literary idol, Maya Angelou was one of the honorees. Although she had to be assisted on and off stage, she is still mentally sharp, witty and captivating. As she sang and recited a poem for the audience I held my breath wishing that I could sit at her knee and soak up as much of her wisdom as she would allow. Her time on stage was short but sweet, and I was humbled as she encouraged each of us to become engaged with young people.
Later in the evening, honoree Sheri Sheppard (The View), spoke of her journey and her career and advised the audience that in order to find one’s passion and purpose you must run toward the fear. Personally, her message couldn’t have come at a better time. Whether it’s my community service project, philanthropy aspirations or side hustle plans, I constantly doubt myself. I worry about how my ideas will be received. I wonder if anyone will listen or benefit or appreciate. I worry that I will fail. The fear of it all pushes me further away from my dreams and I constantly talk myself out of plans. I wasn’t miraculously healed after hearing Sheri speak, but I did forgive myself for yielding to the fear and vowed to start over tomorrow…and the next day and the next because every day is another chance to get it right.
I do believe I have a purpose. We all do. Not everyone’s purpose is to be wealthy or famous or to be recognized with awards and accolades. Maybe your purpose is to heal. Maybe her purpose is to help children. Maybe his purpose is to save. Maybe my purpose is to teach. We all have something to contribute. We all have something to do. I am humbled when I remember that it is not just about me. I am reminded of one of my favorite quotes: that we must remember to lift as we climb.
As I sat in the room with movers and shakers, millionaires, movie stars, entrepreneurs, philanthropists, and young people who hold so much promise for the future, I felt blessed and compelled to do more. Not only in my own life, but also in the lives of others. I am happy to share that one of the endeavors that I have tabled repeatedly, largely due to fear, will be launched soon. See my other post, Ladies First, for info on the launch of the ladies-only networking group here in Milwaukee.
And I encourage you, even if the fear paralyzes you, to run toward your fear. Push through it and find your purpose.
