The Servant of All

It is a journey of how one man beat the odds to become teacher, principal, school superintendent, short-term missionary to Africa, pastor, community leader, and influential servant of God. How familial love and cooperation, parental example, hard work, and a life of dedication to loving and serving Jesus Christ can triumph over racial discrimination, poverty, and difficult beginnings. A man who had a myriad of education and religious experiences and qualifications. These included fifty years of distinguished service in public and Christian ministry. A man who received accolades of being honored by the US Department of Education for exemplary performance and leadership in schools and community, earned the Blue Ribbon School Award, and Urban Heroes Award that honors residents who serve with distinction behind the scenes in an urban setting and Professional Man of the Year award. A testimony reinforcing the belief that "all our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them" (Walt Disney). About hope and the fact that the American Dream is not only still alive but also achievable. To bring hope, inspiration to rise above, and to love in the midst of any circumstance, create a legacy putting needs of others first, and helping people develop and perform as highly as possible. Despite a humble background, and limited resources and opportunities, the story demonstrates how ordinary people can achieve extraordinary success. It dispels the myth that people do well in life only if they are from privileged backgrounds. It is a lesson to us that though our environment helps shape us, we are not defined by it.