A few weeks ago, Maya Angelou passed away and I began reflecting on the strength of this woman and her impact on my life, through the arts, poetry, reading and her demeanor in life. Everything we do influences another, and while we may not have immediate contact with others, our stories are shared across barriers and distance. I never met Dr. Maya Angelou in person, but through her experiences and testimonies of rising above the turmoil and storms in her life I knew her. I knew her struggle and story, but most importantly, I knew the God she served, and recognized this determination in her eyes, because I have seen the same determination in mine own eyes. Her passing made me remember, and take hold of the strength of God in me, and my ability to influence others.
This past week, shockingly and suddenly I lost my pastor, Dr. Mario Maxwell, a young man in age but wise and seasoned in the Spirit of God. His lost was shocking, not only to realize but even greater when I understand the tangible impact he's had on not only my life, but my family and church family New Divine Destiny Christian Center. Mario as I called him( he was comfortable in who he was, and not offended or disrespected by titles, because he knew who he was), was a prophet of God. His ministry went beyond our church to the nations and beyond. When I think of this man of God, I think of the impact of the ministry of Jesus Christ. His work spread throughout the world, and impacted so many. While we mourn his lost, the work is yet ahead, because the mantel he carried continues on through those who walked along side of him.
These two event make me consider each day, and how I live it. We use words as cliche' without realizing the impact of the words. We have today, this moment and how we choose to use it is a direct reflection on what we believe. I am encouraged by the words of encouragement that pours out to honor the man of God, but even more excited about how the life and legacy will be honored by those who were touched by his work.
Purpose
In living our lives, we must be driven not by work, but by our God ordained purpose for existing. Why were you created? What did the creator have in mind when he made you? What impact were you designed to make? Why did he plant you where you are? Living a purpose driven life is a life on purpose, a life aligned to God. A study on Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren is a great tool to begin the journey of finding out why you are here.
Pursuit
The daily work of fulfilling your vision for life takes concentrated effort. If you are seeking to live a life that is meaningful, you will never encounter it if you are not in pursuit of it. People make things happen! Too often we are waiting on a handout and left wanting because it relies on someone bringing it to us, rather than the effort we take to make it happen by getting in hot pursuit.
Passion
The passion of the work of Dr. Maya Angelou and Dr. Mario Maxwell is what was evident to us as we watched their lives and is what we will miss seeing in them. Passion is not exclusive. Passion it the fire that fuels our work, and drives us when no one else is left to cheer us on. Passion is the contagious spirit of generosity we see, the glow in the eyes when a plan comes to fruition, the underlying power within us that keeps the boat afloat.
Why write now?
As I began this blog post two days ago, it was initially to pour out my heart because of the void I was experiencing with the lost of my pastor, Dr. Mario Maxwell. When I really sat down today, and began to write, it became clear to me, that while pouring out was a piece of it, it wasn't all. The fuel was the last text I received from Mario in response to a post I wrote about Dr. Maya Angelou. He said, "You're a good writer." I asked him, what did you read of mine, that made you say that?
He had read this post on Facebook:
"One of my most special memories of my dad, is when they stayed in San Leandro and on my bedside table he placed a copy of Maya Angelou's Phenomenal Women as a welcome and greeting but so much more. Maya has given me wings on so many occasions and awakened the ROAR inside of who I truly am. Greatly missed, but never forgotten. As women, we must become such a force that others emulate the Christ in us!"
When I responded, my response was simple and honest, "Thank you, now I must just start writing.". Mario's comment awakened my passion, but my pursuit of my purpose as a writer was determined by my next steps, to write.
So it is today, that begins my writing career, that will lead to published books and memoirs of my experience on this earth. The volumes that are within me, are awakened and ready to burst forth. Join me on my journey, and let today be the day you begin yours anew!
Writing this in route home from Minneapolis, MN. We can begin today, we can start now. Do it today, and Do it afraid! Kelly Ramsey, the writer
