YOU CAN'T BE WHAT YOU CAN'T SEE

By Vernalee

Marian Wright Edelman, President of the Children's Defense Fund, coined the expression - "You can't be what you can't see." That expression is "true for all of us — we rely on stories, examples, leaders or, in the purest, most basic form, images that inform us about who we are and what our potential is, and without these, we are left unaware and unable to be that which we cannot see." It is for that reason that it is important for young Black children, in particular, to see Black people across the career spectrum so that they can see, aspire, dream and prepare for what they desire to become ... and realize that it is possible.

Photo Credit: pininterest

I'M EVERY WOMAN

By Vernalee

As we continue the countdown in Women History Month, I give love and honor to those women who have shown me the way and taught me a thing or two. A shout out to my two Phoebe's (my Mother and daughter)! My Mother laid the foundation and yes, I have learned a lot from my daughter! My late sisters, Barbara and Jean taught me much. Barbara was a "Sister Momma" who kept you in line. My Aunt Sudie and Aunt Minnie were substitute Mothers. My favorite teacher, Toni Patterson Menchan taught me how to dream and achieve. My loving nieces, cousins, and friends (praying and lifelong friends) continue to guide me. Let me not forget those old women who sat on their porches in Mississippi who gave me unsolicited advice that I didn't want to hear at the time, but whose words of wisdom remain in my soul. I thank you all! I'm the woman that I am because of you!

YOU DIDN'T GET THERE BY YOURSELF

By Vernalee

Somedays, we just have to break things down to the basics. Rarely, do we reach great heights on our own. There are so many helping hands along the way. Never will I forget that. Stay humble. Stay prayerful, and remember the people who encouraged, helped … and even picked you up when you stumbled and fell. Every morning when I awake, I say, "Thank you Lord!" I am so thankful for his grace and the wonderful people that he has placed in my path - those helping hands.

Photo credit: greatnonprofits.org