It took me a while to realize that my circumstances were almost solely determined by my actions. This is true for all of us. It’s also true that where we begin our independent journey of life is predetermined by situations beyond our control, including family life, where we grew up, where we attended school, and our socioeconomic background. We all start at different places and spaces on our journeys, but where we end up is determined by when we wake up!
Our minds have to be open to our realities and we may need to adjust or completely change our outlook before we can welcome the interchange of 4 things: opportunity, commitment, determination and focus.
I believe the order is ascending and plays a significant role in how we mobilize ourselves into action.
Our ancestors were savvy, strong, disciplined and patient. They adapted to their circumstances but they never conformed to the injustices of slave codes, black codes and Jim Crow laws. They often paid for their resilience with the branding stroke of the whip, separation of families, or arrests and beatings. But they were undeterred by unimaginable obstacles and persevered. Our history has indisputably shown us that it’s not the circumstance that determines the outcome. It is will and wit working harmoniously that does.
Today we must persevere as well. It begins with our environment and those we allow to share our space. Does your environment honor your identity and truth? Is it peaceful and affirming or hostile and chaotic? We must eradicate negativity because it will block our entryway to progress, remove toxic people because they will stunt our growth and vision, and in those instances where toxic people can’t be completely removed, we must learn to dismiss them because they are suffocating and burdensome. When you have accomplished these steps, and/or understand how to manipulate your circumstances, you will discover that the four elements of opportunity, commitment, determination and focus will be easier to achieve, accept and navigate.
Tomorrow belongs to the people who prepare for it today.
African Proverb